Glucosamine Sulfate has been studied in various clinical trials and is recognized for its potential to help improve joint pain and function in individuals with arthritis. Glucosamine is believed to stimulate the function of normal cells and tissues in the affected joints. Patients on blood thinners should consult a qualified health professional before using.
*References:
- Towheed TE, Maxwell L, Anastassiades TP, et al. Glucosamine therapy for treating osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2005;(2):CD002946
- Herrero-Beaumont G, Ivorra JA, Del Carmen Trabado M, et al. Glucosamine sulfate in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis symptoms: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study using acetaminophen as a side comparator. Arthritis Rheum 2007;56:555-67.
- McAlindon T, Formica M, LaValley M, et al. Effectiveness of glucosamine for symptoms of knee osteoarthritis: results from an internet-based randomized double-blind controlled trial. Am J Med 2004;117:643-9.
- Reginster JY, Deroisy R, Rovati LC, et al. Long-term effects of glucosamine sulfate on osteoarthritis progression: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2001;357:251-6.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is often studied in combination with glucosamine sulfate for its potential to support joint health. Together, they may help with managing the discomfort and swelling associated with arthritic joints.
*References:
- Kim LS, Axelrod LJ, Howard P, et al. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2006;14:286-94.
- Usha PR, Naidu MUR. Randomised, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled study of oral glucosamine, methylsulfonylmethane and their combinations. Clin Drug Invest 2004;24:353-63.
Mythocondro® is a nutritional supplement designed to support joint health. As the first Non-Animal Chondroitin Sulfate produced through a patented fermentation-based process, Mythocondro® boasts a unique structure with a constant charge density and molecular mass parameters similar to human synovial fluid. It has been studied for its clinically proven superior bioavailability, attributed to an improved intestinal epithelial permeability of 43%. Mythocondro® offers a distinctive and effective option for those seeking to maintain strong and healthy joints.
*References:
- https://www.mythocondro.com/
- Bucsi L, Poor G. Efficacy and tolerability of oral chondroitin sulfate as a symptomatic slow-acting drug for osteoarthritis (SYSADOA) in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 1998;6 Suppl A:31-6.
- Kelly GS. The role of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfates in the treatment of degenerative joint disease. Altern Med Rev 1998;3:27-39.
- Leffler CT, Philippi AF, Leffler SG, et al. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and manganese ascorbate for degenerative joint disease of the knee or low back: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Mil Med 1999;164:85-91.
- Das A Jr, Hammad TA. Efficacy of a combination of FCHG49 glucosamine hydrochloride, TRH122 low molecular weight sodium chondroitin sulfate and manganese ascorbate in the management of knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2000;8:343-50.
- Pipitone VR. Chondroprotection with chondroitin sulfate. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1991;17:3-7.
- Mazieres B, Combe B, Phan Van A, et al. Chondroitin sulfate in osteoarthritis of the knee: a prospective, double blind, placebo controlled multicenter clinical study. J Rheumatol 2001;28:173-81.
CMO (Cetyl Myristoleate) was shown to decrease pain and increase movement in a clinical study of patients with osteoarthritic joints. It is believed that these fatty acids may lubricate the joints and soften the surrounding tissues. They may also modulate the immune system and function as anti-inflammatory agents.
*References:
- Hesslink R Jr, Armstrong D 3rd, Nagendran MV, et al. Cetylated fatty acids improve knee function in patients with osteoarthritis. J Rheumatol 2002;29:1708-12.
Hyaluronic Acid is often used in medical treatments for joint health, particularly in the form of injections to alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis. There is also evidence supporting its effectiveness in oral form, where it acts as a physical cushion within joints and has antioxidant properties. Hyaluronic Acid may help improve hydration and support wound healing in joints.
*References:
- Petrella RJ, DiSilvestro MD, Hildebrand C. Effects of hyaluronate sodium on pain and physical functioning in osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Arch Intern Med 2002;162:292-8.
- Dougados M. Sodium hyaluronate therapy in osteoarthritis: arguments for a potential beneficial structural effect. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2000;30(2 Suppl 1):19-25.
- King SR, Hickerson WL, Proctor KG. Beneficial actions of exogenous hyaluronic acid on wound healing. Surgery 1991;109:76-84.
Black Catechu, also known as Acacia catechu, has a long history of traditional use as a natural anti-inflammatory agent for joint discomfort. Clinical studies indicate that Black Catechu shows promise in supporting joint health by inhibiting enzymes involved in inflammation.
*References:
- Li RW, Myers SP, Leach DN, et al. A cross-cultural study: anti-inflammatory activity of Australian and Chinese plants. J Ethnopharmacol 2003;85:25-32
- Levy RM, Saikovsky R, Shmidt E, et al. Flavocoxid is as effective as naproxen for managing the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee in humans: a short-term randomized, double-blind pilot study. Nutr Res 2009;29:298-304.
- Burnett BP, Jia Q, Zhao Y, Levy RM. A medicinal extract of Scutellaria baicalensis and Acacia catechu acts as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase to reduce inflammation. J Med Food 2007;10:442-51.
- Koga T, Meydani M. Effect of plasma metabolites of (+)-catechin and quercetin on monocyte adhesion to human aortic endothelial cells. Am J Clin Nutr 2001;73:941-8.
L-Glutamic Acid is one of the most abundant amino acids in the body and plays a vital role in various functions, including energy metabolism and skeletal muscle strength. It is essential for synthesizing other amino acids and has been found useful in supporting tissue repair after surgery or injury. Additionally, L-Glutamic Acid may contribute to immune system function.
*References:
- Medina MA. Glutamine and cncer. J Nutr 2001;131:2539S-42S.
- Wilmore DW. The effect of glutamine supplementation in patients following elective surgery and accidental injury. J Nutr 2001;131:2543S-9S.
L-Cysteine is an amino acid that supports tissue repair and skeletal muscle strength. It is involved in the synthesis of proteins and has been studied for its potential role in rebuilding joint structures. L-Cysteine is considered safe based on numerous clinical studies.
*References:
- Millea PJ . N-acetylcysteine: multiple clinical applications.Am Fam Physician - 1-AUG-2009; 80(3): 265-9
- Aquilani R., Viglio S; Iadarola P; Opasich C; Testa A; Dioguardi FS; Pasini E., Oral amino acid supplements improve exercise capacities in elderly patients with chronic heart failure. Am J Cardiol - 2-JUN-2008; 101(11A): 104E-110E
White Willow contains salicin, a compound metabolized into salicylic acid, which has properties similar to aspirin. It is traditionally used as a natural remedy for joint discomfort and may act as an anti-inflammatory by inhibiting certain pathways involved in the body's inflammatory response. White Willow Bark is considered a natural alternative for those seeking joint comfort without the adverse effects often associated with aspirin and other NSAIDs.
*References:
- Fiebich BL, Chrubasik S. Effects of an ethanolic salix extract on the release of selected inflammatory mediators in vitro. Phytomedicine 2004;11:135-8.
- Chrubasik S, Eisenberg E, Balan E, et al. Treatment of low back pain exacerbations with willow bark extract: a randomized double-blind study. Am J Med 2000;109:9-14.
- Schmid B, Ludtke R, Selbmann HK, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of a standardized willow bark extract in patients with osteoarthritis: randomized placebo-controlled, double blind clinical trial. Phytother Res 2001;15:344-50.
- Biegert C, Wagner I, Ludtke R, et al. Efficacy and safety of willow bark extract in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: results of 2 randomized double-blind controlled trials. J Rheumatol 2004;31:2121-30.
Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been researched for its potential role in supporting joint health, particularly in individuals with arthritic conditions. Several clinical studies have explored its effectiveness in managing inflammation and promoting joint comfort.
*References:
- Ammon HP, Safayhi H, Mack T, Sabieraj J. Mechanism of anti-inflammatory actions of curcumine and boswellic acids. J Ethnopharmacol 1993;38:1139.
- Kimmatkar N, Thawani V, Hingorani L, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract in treatment of osteoarthritis of knee--a randomized double blind placebo controlled trial. Phytomedicine 2003;10:3-7.
- Etzel R. Special extract of Boswellia serrata (H 15) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Phytomedicine 1996;3:91-4.
- Liu JJ, Nilsson A, Oredsson S, et al. Boswellic acids trigger apoptosis via a pathway dependent on caspase-8 activation but independent on Fas/Fas ligand interaction in colon cancer HT-29 cells. Carcinogenesis 2002;23:2087-93.
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) is valued for its anti-inflammatory properties and is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body manage stress. Additionally, Holy Basil has been studied for its potential pain-relieving properties.
*References:
- Singh S, Majumdar DK. Effect of Ocimum sanctum fixed oil on vascular permeability and leucocytes migration. Indian J Exp Biol 1999 37:1136-8
- Agrawal P, Rai V, Singh RB. Randomized placebo-controlled, single blind trial of holy basil leaves in patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 1996;34:406-9
- Godhwani S, Godhwani JL, Vyas DS. Ocimum sanctum: an experimental study evaluating its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity in animals. J Ethnopharmacol 1987;21:153-63.
- Khanna N, Bhatia J. Antinociceptive action of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) in mice: possible mechanisms involved. J Ethnopharmacol 2003;88:293-6
- Kar A, Choudhary BK, Bandyopadhyay NG. Comparative evaluation of hypoglycaemic activity of some Indian medicinal plants in alloxan diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2003;84:105-8.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa), known for its active compound curcumin, has a long history of use in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to inhibit enzymes targeted by NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), offering potential relief for joint discomfort without the same side effects. Turmeric is also recognized for supporting immune function and has been studied for its role in alleviating symptoms of arthritis. Additionally, Turmeric has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US.
*References:
- Zhang F, Altorki NK, Mestre JR, et al. Curcumin inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 transcription in bile acid- and phorbol ester-treated human gastrointestinal epithelial cells. Carcinogenesis 1999;20:445-51.
- Surh YJ. Anti-tumor promoting potential of selected spice ingredients with antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities: a short review. Food Chem Toxicol 2002;40:1091-7.
- Araujo CC, Leon LL. Biological activities of Curcuma longa L. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2001;96:723-8.
- Shah BH, Nawaz Z, Pertani SA. Inhibitory effect of curcumin, a food spice from turmeric, on platelet-activating factor- and arachidonic acid-mediated platelet aggregation through inhibition of thromboxane formation and Ca2+ signaling. Biochem Pharmacol 1999;58:1167-72.
- Sharma RA, McLelland HR, Hill KA, et al. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic study of oral Curcuma extract in patients with colorectal cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2001;7:1894-900.
- Deodhar SD, Sethi R, Srimal RC. Preliminary study on antirheumatic activity of curcumin (diferuloyl methane). Indian J Med Res 1980;71:632-4.
- Araujo CC, Leon LL. Biological activities of Curcuma longa L. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2001;96:723-8
- Antony S, Kuttan R, Kuttan G. Immunomodulatory activity of curcumin. Immunol Invest 1999;28:291-303.
- Baum L., et al, Six-month randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, pilot clinical trial of curcumin in patients with Alzheimer disease. J Clin Psychopharmacol - 01-FEB-2008; 28(1): 110-3.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is used as an anti-inflammatory agent and has been tested and found to be effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger has been found in laboratory studies to inhibit a number of factors associated with joint pain and damage.
*References:
- Bliddal H, Rosetzsky A, Schlichting P, et al. A randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study of ginger extracts and ibuprofen in osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2000;8:9-12.
- Marcus DM, Suarez-Almazor ME. Is there a role for ginger in the treatment of osteoarthritis? Arthritis Rheum 2001;44:2461-2.
- Srivastava KC, Mustafa T. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and rheumatic disorders. Med Hypotheses 1989;29:25-8.
- Frondoza CG, Sohrabi A, Polotsky A, et al. An in vitro screening assay for inhibitors of proinflammatory mediators in herbal extracts using human synoviocyte cultures. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2004;40:95-101.
- Thomson M, Al-Qattan KK, Al-Sawan SM, et al. The use of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) as a potential anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic agent. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2002;67:475-8.
- Kruth P, Brosi E, Fux R, et al. Ginger-associated overanticoagulation by phenprocoumon. Ann Pharmacother 2004;38:257-60.
Bromelain is an enzyme that helps break down proteins and has been studied for its potential to reduce pain and inflammation, particularly in arthritis patients. It is valued for its natural anti-inflammatory properties and its role in supporting joint health.
*References:
- Klein G, Kullich W. Short-term treatment of painful osteoarthritis of the knee with oral enzymes. Clin Drug Invest 2000;19:15-23.
Rutin is a bioflavonoid known for its antioxidant activity. It has been studied for its potential to enhance the effectiveness of other nutrients, such as oral enzymes, in supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.
*References:
- Erlund I, Kosonen T, Alfthan G, et al. Pharmacokinetics of quercetin from quercetin aglycone and rutin in healthy volunteers. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2000;56:545-53.
BioPerine® (Black Pepper Extract) helps enhance the absorption of nutrients in the body. Derived from black pepper, Piperine - the active compound in BioPerine® - is known for its ability to increase the bioavailability of various nutrients, potentially making them more effective in supporting joint health and overall wellness.
*References:
- Kesarwani, K., & Gupta, R. (2013). "Bioavailability enhancers of herbal origin: An overview". Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 3(4). doi:10.1016/S2221-1691(13)60060-X
- Tiwari, A., Mahadik, K.R.,Gabhe, S.Y. (2020) "Piperine: A comprehensive review of methods of isolation, purification, and biological properties". Medicine in Drug Discovery, doi:10.1016/j.medidd.2020.100027
- Shoba G, Joy D, Joseph T, Majeed M, Rajendran R, Srinivas PS. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Med. 1998 May;64(4):353-6. http://bioperine.com/Targeting%20Optimal%20Nutrient%20Absorption%20with%20Phytonutrients.pdf