green lipped mussel

A Natural Supplement for Combating Joint Inflammation


Millions of people find themselves suffering from various forms of arthritis, inflammation of joints caused by a wide range of factors. Though certain fish oils became all the rage in recent years for their joint health benefits, these renowned supplements may be facing a new rival in the world of natural remedies. Specifically, extracts from the green lipped mussel have been found effective in the battle against joint pain.

Not all species of mussels offer the elements experts are promoting for these benefits. According to researchers across the globe, only true green lipped mussels farmed exclusively in New Zealand hold the power to provide relief from such conditions. Appropriately named due to the prominent green rim around its members' shells, this species produces a lipid believed to inhibit the body's generation of inflammatory agents.



Among the conditions potentially treated by green lipped mussel extract is Rheumatoid Arthritis. This ailment typically affects the hands and feet. In patients suffering from RA, the body's immune system begins attacking the joints, ravaging them over time. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, develops when cartilage is depleted by extended and repetitive movements. In either case, inflammation leads to severe pain as well as loss of joint mobility.

As part of a clinical trial, a substance known as Lyprinol gleaned from these shellfish was given to patients living with RA. At the end of the 12-week study, those taking 1.2 grams of the extract on a daily basis reported notably reduced pain levels and increased mobility with no negative side effects. In contrast, a separate group receiving equal amounts of fish oil experienced no decrease in pain and no greater joint mobility.

Upon conclusion of the study, researchers decided stabilized green lipped mussel oil could be a safer and more effective method of treatment for joint pain caused by inflammation. As an anti-inflammatory agent, scientists are also looking into this substance's potential for treating asthma. Since this respiratory condition is brought on by inflammation of the airways, it is commonly controlled by synthetic anti-inflammatory medications.

With prices and harmful side effects of prescription medications on the rise, a number of patients are on a mission to find more natural alternatives to man-made pharmaceuticals. At the same time, these sufferers fear the possibility of less-than-satisfactory results from supplements. Research indicates extract from the New Zealand green lipped variety of shellfish may be the answer these people need.