Herbal Interventions Show Promise in Managing Knee Osteoarthritis

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from Burapha University in Chonburi, Thailand, have conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis to explore the efficacy and safety of herbal interventions, specifically Curcuma longa (CL) and Boswellia serrata (BS), in managing knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The study, published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine, found that modified formulations of CL significantly reduced pain and improved joint function, while BS extract, particularly in modified formulations, improved joint function in patients with mild to moderate KOA.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study included 20 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comprising 1,633 participants, making it one of the largest studies on KOA treatment.
  • Modified formulations of CL showed a significant reduction in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores compared to placebo (SMD: -2.82; 95%CI: -5.30 to -0.33).
  • Modified formulations of BS demonstrated significant improvement in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) pain, stiffness, and knee function compared to other intervention groups.
  • No significant differences in adverse events were observed among all comparisons.
  • The mixed formulation of CL and BS showed potential benefits, warranting further investigation.
  • The study's findings have implications for the development of new treatments for KOA, particularly for patients with mild to moderate disease.

Statistics:

  • 20 RCTs were included in the study, comprising 1,633 participants.
  • The modified formulations of CL and BS showed significant improvements in VAS and WOMAC scores, respectively.
  • The study found no significant differences in adverse events among all comparisons.
  • The study's results suggest that the mixed formulation of CL and BS may offer potential benefits for KOA treatment.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Reports Outline Knee Osteoarthritis Findings from Burapha University (Evaluating the efficacy and safety of Curcuma longa, Boswellia serrata, and their mixed formulation in treating knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and network meta-analysis). Health & Medicine Week. October 31, 2025; p 4808.
  • Evaluating the efficacy and safety of Curcuma longa, Boswellia serrata, and their mixed formulation in treating knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 2025:103256.