For centuries, spices were used as natural remedies for a long list of ailments. As prescription drugs became the norm, spices fell out of the mainstream. But research confirms the spice cabinet can often be as potent as a prescription bottle. Spices are powerful sources of antioxidents, anti-inflammatories, and phyto chemicals, which can relieve the pain, swelling, and discomfort of arthritis. Here are some tried and true kitchen remedies.

Turmeric. Culled from the curcumin plant, turmeric fights inflammation. It helps to stop free radicals in their tracks. It also halts cartlilage destruction, blocks inflammation, and reduces swelling. To use it, eat dishes made with curry several times a week or supplement with 1000 mg turmeric capsules two or three times per day, depending on your symptom severity.

Ginger. Common in traditional Chinese medicines, ginger inhibits inflammation to ease arthritis pain. Ginger is especially well suited for people whose arthritis worsens in cold weather, since it warms painful joints by helping increase blood flow. To use it, drink a cup of ginger tea daily, (add one teaspoon freshly grated ginger to hot water, let steep for 10 to 20 minutes, strain and drink). Or take a ginger supplement, one 500 mg capsule three or four times daily. You can also try ginger essential oil. Dilute three drops with half teaspoon almond oil and rub into affected joints.

Rosemary. A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, this herb contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that reduce inflammation and act as a pain reliever. To use it, add six drops of rosemary essential oil to your bathwater, or mix six drops with half teaspoon almond oil and massage into sore joints. Do not use during pregnancy.

Saffron. This fabled herb is hand-picked from crocus blossoms and is a potent antioxidant, packing a powerful arthritis relieving punch with its woody scent and yellow color. It's pretty pricey, 1 ounce costs about $45, because it's so labor-intensive to grow and pick. To use it, mix half a teaspoon saffron into a glass of boiling water and drink as a tea. Don't overdo it. More than 2 grams per day can cause nausea. You can also mix several drops of saffron essential oil with a half teaspoon of almond oil and rub directly into joints.

Cayenne. Cayenne is what puts the zing in chili and other spicy dishes. It also blocks a substance in the body that transmits pain signals. To use, it is best used topically since it can cause nausea when too much is taken internally. Find a prepared topical cayenne cream at most pharmacies at health food stores and rub in affected areas according to package directions.