Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
1,000 mg daily boswellia resin herbal extract or two capsules, three times per day of Aticulin-F (formula containing 100 mg boswellia, 450 mg ashwagandha, 50 mg turmeric, and 50 mg zinc)
[3 stars]
A combination of boswellia, ashwagandha, turmeric, and zinc effectively treated pain and stiffness in one study, without the stomach irritation that is a common side effect of NSAIDs.
Cat’s claw has been used traditionally for osteoarthritis. In one trial, cat's claw was significantly more effective than a placebo at relieving pain and improving overall condition.
510 mg daily of a concentrated herbal extract, taken in divided doses
[3 stars]
Ginger has historically been used for arthritis and rheumatism. Studies have shown it to be effective at relieving pain and swelling in people with osteoarthritis.
Glucosamine sulfate is necessary for joint cartilage synthesis and repair. It has been shown to significantly reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and appears to be virtually free of side effects.
SAMe has anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and tissue-healing properties that may help protect the health of joints and reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.
Supplemental niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) has been reported to increase joint mobility, improve muscle strength, and decrease fatigue in people with osteoarthritis.
An extract of avocado and soybean oils, known as avocado/soybean unsaponifiables, appears to reduce inflammation and help repair damaged cartilage tissue.
Devil’s claw extract was found in one trial to reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis as effectively as the slow-acting analgesic/ cartilage-protective drug diacerhein.
90 mg of bromelain and 48 mg of trypsin, with 100 mg of rutosid, taken in enteric-coated pills three times per day
[2 stars]
In one study, people with painful osteoarthritis of the knee who received an oral enzyme-flavonoid preparation saw more improvement in pain and joint function than those who took a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID).
Apply a gel containing 25% DMSO under the direction of a qualified healthcare practitioner
[2 stars]
Topical DMSO appears to be anti-inflammatory and able to relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis, possibly by inhibiting the transmission of pain messages by nerves.
1,050 to 2,100 mg daily of freeze-dried powder or 210 mg daily of lipid extract
[2 stars]
New Zealand green-lipped mussel supplements have been shown in various studies to reduce joint tenderness and stiffness and improve pain, including knee pain in people with osteoarthritis.
In one study, people who took krill oil saw significant reduction in arthritis severity and used less pain-relief medication than those taking placebo.
In one trial, supplementing with methyl-sulfonylmethane significantly reduced pain and improved overall physical functioning in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Double-blindresearch has shown thatPycnogenol may improve symptoms of osteoarthritis, including reducing pain and the use of pain-relieving medication andimproving walking performance.
In a study of people with osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, supplementing with rose hips powder significantly reduced pain, joint stiffness, and overall disease severity.
In a double-blind trial, supplementation with curcuminoids significantly improved pain and overall functioning in people with osteoarthritis of the knee.
The information on this website is not intended as a substitute for the medical recommendations of a physician. Rather, it is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Please see a qualified healthcare professional if you have questions regarding your health. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This web site contains links to web sites operated by other parties. Such links are provided for your convenience and reference only. We are not responsible for the contents of any linked site or any link contained in a linked site. We reserve the right to cancel any order at any time.
