Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Snake products, such as snake venom and snake-derived oils or extracts, have been used in traditional medicine systems, especially in China and India, for the treatment of rheumatic conditions including Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), preparations from certain snakes are believed to 'dispel wind' and alleviate pain, with historical texts documenting their use for joint pain and inflammatory conditions. The rationale traditionally is that snakes, being flexible and agile, can impart these properties to humans and remove 'blockages' in the body's meridians.

Scientifically, there is limited evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of snake products in treating RA. Some animal studies and in vitro research have explored the anti-inflammatory components of snake venom (e.g., peptides and enzymes that may inhibit inflammatory pathways), but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. The few available small studies or case reports are not sufficient to recommend their use by modern medical standards. Furthermore, the potential toxicity and serious side effects of snake venoms make their use risky outside of highly controlled settings. As such, while traditional use is documented and some preliminary scientific inquiry exists, the overall evidence remains weak (rated 2/5), and these treatments are not part of mainstream RA therapy.

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