Green Lipped Mussel and Arthritis

It was back in the 1960s that American researchers found that the green lipped mussel from New Zealand had natural healing properties. They were actually looking for new cancer treatments that could be developed from sea-life.

These mussels were among the sea-life that was tested. And as a result, it was learned that due to the unique nutrients contained in the Perna canaliculus which is only found in New Zealand, there were anti-inflammatory and joint pain relief properties.

These might not be useful for cancer treatments, but they could be very beneficial in treating joint problems and arthritis.

There are two common types of arthritis: (1) osteoarthritis, where the cartilage around the joints have become roughened and thickened due to wear and tear, and that makes movement painful (2) rheumatoid arthritis, which is the inflammation of a joint.

Clinical trials using the extract from the green lipped mussel showed good potential from the results for patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis - and this is for humans and animals. As a result, research on the anti-inflammatory properties of green lipped mussel for arthritis is continually being done.

Green Lipped Mussel And Arthritis Research

Research revealed that the extracts contain omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, minerals and amino acids that all reduce inflammation.

The mussels also contain chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine, significant building blocks for cartilages around the joints, which may help in repairing the structure of the joints and restore smooth movement.

While there are supplements that contain both chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine, normally taken to maintain healthy joints and prevent swelling with varying results, the green lipped mussel extract has a broader range of benefits for the management and prevention of joint pain and swelling due to arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Lyprinol, a natural extract from green lipped mussels from New Zealand, contains a unique combination of omega-3 fatty acids and lipid groups. Lyprinol has anti-inflammatory action to provide relief from joint swellings associated with arthritis. What is very beneficial about the extract is that it does not cause blood thinning, and has no effect on the gastro-intestinal system the way something like aspirin does.

Green Lipped Mussel Extract And Arthritis Management

While there is no real cure for arthritis, the potential for improving mobility and relieving pain by reducing inflammation in the joints would be very beneficial. Most the medicines that are being prescribed are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pain relievers.

Since these are medicines that can cause bleeding and stomach problems, there are many people who have additional conditions that would not allow for them to be taken. A natural supplement, that essentially has no side effects for those who are not allergic to shellfish, would be a very good thing.

Results from the regular use has shown potential to be included in arthritis management, by showing the following benefits:

繚 Provides relief from arthritis pain

繚 Reduction of the inflammation in the joints due to arthritis

繚 May help in the repair of connective tissues

Further note that It is not only humans that can benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of the green lipped mussels - your dog can also get arthritis, and they are also susceptible to the same side effects from prolonged use of pain medicines.

Clinical studies done in New Zealand to test the efficacy have given promising results. Dogs with arthritis that were given regular dog food mixed with the mussel powder, showed a reduction in pain with a return in mobility after 6 weeks of this feeding combination.

With the potential being shown from studies using green lipped mussel supplements in the management of arthritis and joint problems in humans and animals, they can be expected to continue, and hopefully will lead to a natural treatment with minimal side effects for very painful conditions.