Published in:
01-11-2018 | Complementary and Alternative Medicine (S Kolasinski, Section Editor)
Natural Products for Promoting Joint Health and Managing Osteoarthritis
Published in: Current Rheumatology Reports | Issue 11/2018
Login to get accessAbstract
Purpose of Review
Osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease, is associated with substantial medical costs, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. However, available pharmaceutical treatments have limitations in terms of efficacy and long-term safety.
Recent Findings
In vitro evidence suggests that some natural products may possess anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties and may inhibit the release of key osteoarthritis-related cytokines. There is, therefore, ongoing interest in identifying natural products that safely promote joint health and treat osteoarthritis. Numerous plant extracts, including curcumin, Boswellia extract, and pycnogenol, have shown effect sizes (ES) for reducing pain and functional disability larger than those observed with analgesics and products such as glucosamine and chondroitin. The ES for methylsulfonylmethane and avocado/soybean unsaponifiables are also considered to be clinically relevant.
Summary
Data from a small number of studies using natural products for treating osteoarthritis are promising but require confirmation in further well-designed clinical trials.