To treat cervical osteoarthritis in a pregnant woman, caution is needed since not all remedies, such as devil's claw and glucosamine, are allowed.
However, turmeric will be very beneficial internally, in the form of herbal teas or capsules for example; ginger may also be consumed internally, as these two anti-inflammatories are permitted and beneficial during pregnancy.
As for curcumin, arnica, and wintergreen, these are only allowed externally, in the form of a cream for example.
What the science says: pregnancy, joints, and osteoarthritis
What published research says about the remedies mentioned above, for illustration purposes — the studies address material causes, while healing belongs to Allah.
Pregnancy
Ginger is the go-to natural remedy for pregnancy nausea (J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med, 2022) (J Am Board Fam Med, 2014); dates in late pregnancy make labor easier (Explore, 2021); iron and folic acid levels are monitored (Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand, 2023). Precaution: many plants are not recommended during pregnancy (essential oils, hormonal plants, laxative plants, fenugreek) — do not take any supplement without the advice of your midwife or doctor.
Joints and osteoarthritis
Omega-3s reduce inflammatory pain and stiffness (Arch Med Res, 2012); glucosamine and chondroitin show a benefit on osteoarthritis pain (Br J Sports Med, 2018) (Arch Orthop Trauma Surg, 2023); hydrolyzed collagen improves mobility and pain (Curr Med Res Opin, 2006) and an anti-inflammatory diet eases rheumatoid arthritis (Nutrients, 2021). Turmeric, ginger, devil's claw, and blackcurrant complement these approaches. Precaution: glucosamine is often derived from shellfish (allergy risk); omega-3s and blood thinners; never stop a long-term treatment without medical advice.
