6 Rheumatoid Arthritis TCM Herbal Formulas for Pain Relief and Joint Health

Rheumatoid arthritis TCM herbal formula options offer a natural approach to managing this chronic autoimmune condition, which impacts millions of people by limiting their ability to perform daily tasks due to pain, inflammation, and joint stiffness. The effects of RA reach beyond the physical, often leading to emotional distress, fatigue, and frustration as individuals face the challenges of limited mobility. Many people seek complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments to enhance symptom relief and improve quality of life.

In this blog, we focus on six specific TCM herbal formulas that are known to help manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, including pain, inflammation, and joint stiffness. These herbal blends offer a complementary approach to traditional RA treatments, providing natural relief that can support mobility and improve daily comfort for those living with RA.

Table of Contents:

• Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and TCM
  • Overview of RA
  • TCM Perspective on RA
• How TCM Herbal Formulas Help with RA
• 6 Effective TCM Herbal Formulas for Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Bi-Qi
  • Huayu-Qiangshen-Tongbi
  • Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang
  • Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang
  • Yi Yi Ren Tang
  • Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang
• Important Considerations for Using TCM Herbal Formulas
• Conclusion

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and TCM

Overview of Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, swelling, and, over time, a reduction in joint mobility. In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, specifically the synovium, which is the lining of the membranes around the joints. This inflammatory response not only damages the joints but can also affect other systems in the body, making RA a complex, systemic condition.

• Symptoms:
  • Joint pain and tenderness, often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  • Swelling and warmth around affected joints.
  • Reduced mobility and stiffness, which may progress to deformities if untreated.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective on RA:

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views RA as a condition arising from imbalances in the body, typically due to external factors like “wind,” “cold,” and “dampness” that invade the joints. These factors obstruct the free flow of energy (or “Qi”) and blood through the body, leading to pain and restricted movement.

• Diagnosis:
  • Practitioners often identify patterns of “wind-damp-cold” obstructing the joints.
  • Imbalance in internal systems such as liver, kidney, and spleen function may also be noted.
• Treatment Approach:
  • Root Cause (“Ben”) – Focusing on the underlying imbalances that make the body susceptible to joint invasion by harmful external elements.
  • Branch Symptoms (“Biao”) – Relieving immediate symptoms like pain and swelling.
  • Treatment may include acupuncture, herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to restore balance and improve the body’s resilience to these external influences.

This dual approach aims to provide both relief from symptoms and address the internal imbalances that contribute to the development and persistence of RA.

How TCM Herbal Formulas Help with Rheumatoid Arthritis

In TCM, specific herbs are selected for their roles in reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, improving blood flow, and balancing the immune system—key actions in managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. 

Commonly used TCM herbs, such as du huo (Angelica pubescens), yan hu suo (Corydalis), and dang gui (Angelica sinensis), are known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, helping to ease joint discomfort and swelling. Others, like bai zhu (Atractylodes) and huang qi (Astragalus), support immune balance and circulation, which can strengthen the body’s natural defenses and reduce autoimmune responses. 

TCM often combines these herbs in specific formulations, creating a synergistic effect where each herb enhances the overall therapeutic impact, targeting both immediate symptoms and underlying imbalances.

According to a 2019 scientific review, TCM has been used for RA in China for centuries and is gaining global acceptance. Several Chinese proprietary medicines (CPMs), like ZhengQingFengTongNing Tablets and Tripterygium Glycoside Tablets, show promising results for RA with fewer side effects than Western drugs.

Another review explored how TCM treats RA through formulas that strengthen healthy qi, clear heat, reduce dampness, and improve blood flow. TCM uses Chinese herbs like alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins to help inhibit joint-damaging cells, reduce inflammation, and block harmful pathways involved in RA. 

6 Effective TCM Herbal Formulas for Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Bi-Qi

Bi-Qi is widely used for managing rheumatoid arthritis. This herbal remedy is carefully formulated to target the key symptoms of RA, including inflammation, joint swelling, and cartilage deterioration. Bi-Qi works to reduce joint discomfort, prevent further tissue damage, and support long-term joint health.

Benefits of Bi-Qi for RA:

• Reduces Inflammation – Helps to calm the immune response that leads to chronic joint inflammation.
• Alleviates Joint Swelling – Reduces fluid buildup and swelling around joints, easing pain and stiffness.
• Protects Cartilage – Mitigates cartilage damage, which can lead to greater mobility over time.

Who It’s For:

Bi-Qi is ideal for individuals diagnosed with RA who experience joint inflammation, swelling, and cartilage damage. Whether used as a standalone or complement to conventional therapies, Bi-Qi can benefit those looking to manage these symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Bi-Qi Research

A 2018 study tested Bi-Qi capsules on a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis. Rats received either a high or moderate dose of Bi-Qi or methotrexate (MTX). The moderate dose of Bi-Qi proved most effective, reducing joint swelling, inflammation, and cartilage damage. It lowered TNF-α and IL-18 levels, improved cartilage proteins, and decreased inflammation in joint tissue. These results suggest Bi-Qi’s potential as an anti-arthritic treatment for RA.

2. Huayu-Qiangshen-Tongbi (HQT)

Huayu-Qiangshen-Tongbi (HQT) is specially formulated to prevent the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and improve joint health in individuals at risk. It works by easing symptoms like joint swelling and pain while helping to control inflammation, which can prevent or slow the onset of RA in those predisposed to it. HQT is designed to not only relieve discomfort but also support joint function and flexibility.

Benefits of HQT for RA:

• Improves Joint Symptoms – Reduces swelling and pain, easing daily discomfort.
• Enhances Joint Function – Increases mobility and reduces morning stiffness, supporting overall joint health.
• Modulates Inflammation – Helps control inflammation without significantly affecting biomarkers like anti-CCP or rheumatoid factor (RF).

Who It’s For:

HQT is recommended for individuals at high risk for RA, such as those who test positive for anti-CCP or RF but have not yet developed symptoms. It is also beneficial for those experiencing early joint discomfort and looking to prevent RA progression. HQT may serve as an early intervention tool, offering relief and helping to maintain joint health in at-risk individuals.

HQT Research

A 2024 study evaluated the potential of TCM for preventing RA in adults who tested positive for anti-CCP or rheumatoid factor but had no RA symptoms or prior DMARD treatment. Participants took HQT for 24 weeks. 

By the end, 20% had developed RA, with baseline indicators like longer morning stiffness and more synovial enhancement on MRI. While joint symptoms such as pain and swollen joint count improved, there were no significant changes in anti-CCP, RF, ESR, CRP, or MRI results. HQT was safe and improved joint symptoms, though further research is needed to confirm its preventative potential.

3. Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang

Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang is a formula designed to clear heat, reduce inflammation, and unblock Yang Qi, the vital energy needed for free movement in painful or obstructed areas. By addressing these imbalances, this formula improves mobility and reduces discomfort, making it particularly beneficial for those with joint pain and stiffness due to rheumatoid arthritis or similar conditions.

Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang Key Ingredients:

• Phellodendron Bark – Known for its anti-inflammatory and heat-clearing properties.
• Atractylodes Root – Helps dispel dampness and strengthen digestion, which supports overall energy flow.
• Coix Seed – Reduces swelling and promotes fluid movement to alleviate joint stiffness.
• Achyranthes Root – Enhances circulation and alleviates pain, especially in lower body joints.

Benefits of Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang for Rheumatoid Arthritis:

• Relieves Painful Obstruction – Clears “wind-cold-damp” patterns, a common TCM diagnosis for joint and connective tissue discomfort.
• Reduces Inflammation and Stiffness – Helps to ease movement and relieve painful, swollen joints.

Who It’s For:

This formula is suited for individuals experiencing RA or other inflammatory joint conditions, particularly where TCM practitioners identify a “wind-cold-damp” pattern. Those who experience joint pain, stiffness, and reduced circulation may find relief, especially when symptoms restrict movement or intensify in damp, cold weather.

Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang Research

A 2021 meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness and safety of adding GuiZhi-ShaoYao-ZhiMu decoction (GSZD) to methotrexate (MTX) for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Reviewing 14 randomized trials with 1,224 patients, the study found that combining GSZD with MTX increased treatment efficacy (effective rate of 1.24) by improving joint symptoms and reducing inflammation markers like C-reactive protein and rheumatoid factor. 

The combination also lowered adverse events (AEs), particularly gastrointestinal issues, compared to MTX alone. This suggests that GSZD + MTX may be a safer and more effective approach for RA, though more research is needed on long-term outcomes.

4. Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang

Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang, or “Drive Out Blood Stasis from a Painful Body Decoction,” invigorates blood flow and alleviates joint pain and stiffness. By addressing blood stagnation—a condition that TCM associates with persistent, localized pain—this formula works to reduce pain and support greater ease of movement, particularly in cases where rheumatoid arthritis or similar conditions create discomfort and restricted motion.

Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang Key Ingredients:

• Angelica Root (Dang Gui) – Supports blood circulation and alleviates pain.
• Szechuan Lovage Root (Chuan Xiong) – Reduces stagnation and promotes blood flow to ease pain.
• Red Peony Root (Chi Shao) – Known for its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to enhance blood movement.

Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang Benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis:

• Improves Circulation – Enhances blood flow in areas of stagnation, relieving blocked or “stuck” sensations in joints.
• Reduces Pain and Stiffness – Alleviates discomfort and improves joint flexibility by reducing stagnation-related stiffness.

Who It’s For:

Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang is ideal for individuals experiencing persistent, localized pain that TCM practitioners identify as linked to blood stagnation. Those with RA or similar conditions causing stiffness and pain in specific joints may find relief, particularly if symptoms are unresponsive to general anti-inflammatory treatments and involve restricted circulation in affected areas.

5. Yi Yi Ren Tang

Yi Yi Ren Tang, or Coix Seed Decoction, is commonly used to drain dampness and treat joint swelling. By addressing the root causes of damp accumulation in the body, this formula helps alleviate swelling, reduce inflammation, and promote greater mobility in affected joints, making it especially beneficial for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

Yi Yi Ren Tang Key Ingredients:

• Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren) – Known for its ability to clear dampness and reduce joint swelling.
• Licorice Root (Gan Cao) – Supports the effects of other herbs and harmonizes the formula.
• Ginger (Sheng Jiang) – Warms the body and helps dispel excess dampness.
• Red Bean (Hong Dou) – Works to promote diuresis and further reduce damp accumulation.

Yi Yi Ren Tang Benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis:

• Reduces Inflammation – Clears dampness, which often causes joint swelling and stiffness.
• Alleviates Pain – Reduces discomfort associated with swelling and inflammation.
• Clears Dampness – Helps the body eliminate excess fluids, providing relief from the sensation of heaviness in the joints.

Who It’s For:

Yi Yi Ren Tang is ideal for individuals with RA who experience significant joint swelling and a sensation of heaviness, which are common signs of damp accumulation in TCM. This formula is particularly useful for those whose symptoms are aggravated by damp, cold conditions and who need support in reducing swelling and improving joint mobility.

6. Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang

Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang, or White Tiger Plus Ginseng Decoction, combats inflammation and enhances the body’s immune response. This formula works by cooling excess heat in the body, which is often a contributing factor in joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It also strengthens energy, helping to support overall vitality during flare-ups.

Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang Key Ingredients:

• Ginseng (Ren Shen) – Boosts energy and strengthens the immune system, supporting overall vitality.
• Gypsum (Shi Gao) – Cools excess heat in the body and reduces inflammation.
• Licorice Root (Gan Cao) – Harmonizes the effects of other herbs and helps reduce inflammation.
• Glutinous Rice (*Mi) – Supports digestion and strengthens the formula.

Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang Benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis:

• Cools Excess Heat – Helps regulate internal heat, which is often linked to RA flare-ups and inflammation.
• Reduces Inflammation – Alleviates the pain and swelling caused by inflammatory responses in the joints.
• Boosts Energy – Strengthens the body’s resistance and vitality, helping to recover from fatigue associated with RA.

Who It’s For:

Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang is particularly suitable for individuals with RA who experience intense heat and inflammation symptoms. Those who have flare-ups marked by redness, heat, or a general feeling of being overheated, alongside joint pain and stiffness, may find this formula beneficial for cooling inflammation and boosting energy.

Read More: 5 Ancient Healing Teas and Their Benefits 

Important Considerations for Using TCM Herbal Formulas

When using Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formulas, it’s essential to approach treatment thoughtfully and with professional guidance. Here are key points to consider for safe and effective use:

• Consult a TCM Practitioner: It’s crucial to work with a licensed TCM practitioner who can assess your individual health needs and tailor herbal formulas accordingly. TCM practitioners take into account your unique constitution, symptoms, and underlying imbalances to provide the most appropriate treatment.
• Avoid Self-Treatment: TCM herbs can have powerful therapeutic effects, but they may also interact with other medications or underlying health conditions. Self-diagnosing and self-prescribing herbs can lead to unwanted side effects or complications, so professional guidance is always recommended.
• Monitor for Side Effects: While TCM herbs are generally considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects. Common issues to watch for include digestive upset (like nausea or bloating) or allergic reactions. If you notice any adverse symptoms, consult your healthcare provider promptly to adjust the formula or explore alternative treatments.

Conclusion

Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formulas can be a valuable complement in managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, helping to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness by addressing underlying imbalances. It’s essential to discuss any TCM treatments with your healthcare provider to ensure a safe, integrated approach alongside conventional care. By working with a qualified TCM practitioner, you can explore personalized herbal options to enhance your RA management and overall well-being.

Read More: Natural Remedies for Autoimmune Disorders