Overview of Phytosteroids

Phytosteroids are a type of steroid molecule found in plants that have been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments such as arthritis, obesity, and skin diseases. In recent years, researchers have become increasingly interested in exploring the potential benefits of phytosterols for reducing inflammation associated with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism by which phytosteroids work is not yet fully understood but it appears to act as a modulator or regulator of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha and interleukin-6 (IL-6). [1] [2] These are both important mediators of inflammation associated with RA. Additionally, phytosterols have been shown to inhibit NF kappa B; this is a transcription factor involved in activating genes that promote inflammation.

Benefits of Phytosteroids

Here is a list of the potential benefits of phytosteroids:

• Inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha and interleukin-6 (IL-6).
• Can help to decrease inflammation associated with RA by inhibiting the activity of NF kappa B. [2]
• Dietary supplementation with a combination of phytosterols has been shown to reduce signs associated with osteoarthritis. [3]
• May help protect organs from damage caused by chronic inflammation while simultaneously providing relief from symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness.
• Utilizing phytosterols in conjunction with other treatments may be an effective method for reducing signs and symptoms associated with autoimmune conditions like RA.

Benefits for Reducing Inflammation in Autoimmune Conditions

Several studies have demonstrated that phytosteroids may be beneficial for reducing inflammation associated with autoimmune conditions like RA. A 2018 study involving mice found that treatment with phytossterols significantly inhibited the levels of inflammatory markers such as TNF-alpha and IL-6 compared to the control group. The results further indicated that there were also reductions in joint swelling and pain after two weeks of treatment. This suggests that phytossterols may be useful for managing symptoms associated with RA and other autoimmune conditions.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, some research has suggested that phytosterols may be beneficial for protecting against organ damage caused by chronic joint inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases such as Lupus. [4]

Phytosterols appear safe when taken at recommended dosages but due to their potential effect on hormones care should be taken if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally there are some reports of gastrointestinal upset after taking phytosteroids so it is important to start slowly at lower dosages if you plan on adding them into your regimen for treating RA or other inflammatory conditions. Lastly, be sure to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement or medication so they can monitor your progress and insure that you are getting the most benefit from any given treatment regimen.