- Home
- / CL Answers
- / Which supplements help with arthritis?
www.consumerlab.com/answers/which-supplements-can-help-with-arthritis/arthritis-supplements/
Save to favorites
This feature is restricted to active members.
Join now to save favorites and get all member benefits, including over 1,400 reviews.
Join NowAlready a member? Sign in here.
Our Members Asked:
Which supplements help with arthritis?

Answer:
There are a number of supplements that may modestly reduce pain or improve other symptoms of osteoarthritis (inflammation caused by damage or "wearing away" of cartilage in joints) or rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, stiffness and inflammation).
Sign in as a member to learn more about supplements for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of joint pain, including ashwagandha extract, avocado and soy unsaponifiables (ASUs), black seed oil, boswellia, cat's claw, cinnamon, coffee, collagen hydrolysate, curcumin, fiber, garlic, ginger, glucoraphanin and sulforaphane (compounds in broccoli), glucosamine and chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, krill oil, magnesium, modified citrus pectin (e.g., PectaSol-C), MSM, olive oil, omega-3 fatty acids, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), potassium, propolis and bee pollen, rose hips, SAMe, selenium, tart cherry, vitamin B-5, vitamin D, vitamin E, and the products Wobenzym and Zyflamend.Also see our tests and reviews of specific products in Product Reviews, including our Joint Health Supplements Review (covering glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and boswellia), Collagen Supplements Review (including UC-II and Vital 3), and Turmeric Supplements Review (including products such as Zyflamend).
In addition the results of its expert testing, ConsumerLab uses only high-quality, evidence based, information sources. These sources include peer-reviewed studies and information from agencies such as the FDA and USDA, and the National Academy of Medicine. On evolving topics, studies from pre-print journals may be sourced. All of our content is reviewed by medical doctors and doctoral-level experts in pharmacology, toxicology, and chemistry. We continually update and medically review our information to keep our content trustworthy, accurate, and reliable. The following sources are referenced in this article:
- Andrews, Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2020
- Bemis, Nutr Cancer 2005
- Biegert, J Rheumatol 2004
- Capodice, J Soc Integr Oncol 2009
- Christensen, Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2008
- Dai, BMJ 2017
- Davidson, Arthritis Rheum 2013
- Davidson, medRxiv 2024 -- preprint
- Hill, Nutrients 2023
- Kong Arthritis Rheum 2010
- Maddahi, Phytother Res 2023
- Moura, Phytother Res 2017
- Schmid, Phytother Res 2001
Join today to unlock all member benefits including full access to all CL Answers and over 1,400 reviews.
Join NowAlready a member? Sign In Here.
Join now at www.consumerlab.com/join/
75 Comments
Join the conversation
Submit your comment
This feature is restricted to active members.
Join now to add comments and get all member benefits, including over 1,400 reviews.
Join NowAlready a member? Sign in here.
Agree to Comment Terms
Please abide by the following:
- If you make a statement of fact, such as whether a type of treatment does or does not work, state your basis -- such as personal experience or a published study.
- If you make a positive or negative comment about a product, note whether or not you have a financial interest in the product or in a competing product.
- Please be respectful in your tone.
- Please do not submit any type of HTML markup or scripting as it will not be accepted, nor will posts that exceed 2,500 characters.
For your privacy, only your first name (from your account) followed by a random number will appear with your comment. Your last name and email address will not be displayed.
Your comment has been submitted
We will review your comment before it is posted.
Related Reviews (4)
Latest Research Updates (Clinical Updates)
Zyflamend for Joint Health
May 28, 2025
Boswellia for Knee Osteoarthritis?
December 23, 2024
Did taking Boswellia extract (Aflapin/AprèsFlex — as found in Life Extension ArthroMax tested by ConsumerLab) reduce pain and improve function, joint space, and cartilage thickness in people with knee osteoarthritis? Find out what a recent study showed in the Boswellia section of our Joint Health Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for Boswellia and other joint health supplements.
Also see: Which supplements help with arthritis?
Supplement for Hand Osteoarthritis?
November 18, 2024
Does taking a combination of Boswellia extract, curcumin, MSM, and pine bark extract reduce pain or improve function and quality of life among people with hand osteoarthritis? Find out what a recent study showed in the Boswellia section of our Joint Health Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for boswellia.
Also see: Which supplements help with arthritis?
Boswellia for Knees?
September 16, 2024
Did taking Boswellia extract, which is often promoted to reduce inflammation, reduce knee pain or improve function in people with knee osteoarthritis in a recent study? Find out in the What It Does section of our Joint Health Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick among supplements for joints.
Also see our articles about supplements for arthritis and topical pain products with menthol.
Broccoli for Knee Pain?
July 02, 2024
Citrus Pectin for Knee Pain?
October 17, 2023
Can modified citrus pectin (MPC) reduce inflammation or pain in people with knee osteoarthritis? Find out what a clinical study showed in our article about supplements for arthritis.
Also see the evidence for other ingredients promoted for osteoarthritis and our Top Pick supplements for joints in our Joint Health Supplements Review.
Propolis for Arthritis?
September 06, 2023
Does taking propolis and bee pollen help people with rheumatoid arthritis? Find out in our article about supplements for arthritis.
Zyflamend for Joint Pain?
August 25, 2023
Can taking Zyflamend, a supplement with 10 herbal extracts, help improve symptoms of arthritis or other types of joint pain? Find out what research suggests in our article about supplements for arthritis.
Related CL Answers (17)
Related Content
Join over 95,000 Members
Find the best products with instant access to our latest tests & reviews of over 1,400 health products.

Save money by finding high-quality products at lower cost.
Stay safe with the latest clinical findings, warnings, and expert answers.
Suggest products to test.
Stay informed with our e-newsletter.
Ratings of ConsumerLab
The "Updated" date indicates when new information was most recently added to this article. In the full article, the newest information is highlighted in yellow.
Stan22867
May 28, 2025I have experimented with many of these recommended supplements for years with good results ( I’m 78, average weight, with some knee stiffness when climbing stairs - but with no need for any kind of pain medication). The only issue I've ever had is with a name brand of propolis. I found the odor of the capsule so strong, overpowering and unpleasant that I threw out the bottle.
Reply to this post…
Laurence22018
February 19, 2025People:
I am 70 and was X-rayed with beginning arthritis in my one knee. The more I walked, the less it was noticed. I am in very fine health (take no medications) and I walk all over the place; plus, I do stretching exercises for a couple hours at a time. Nevertheless, I discovered I have this knee arthritis about 2 weeks ago. I kept up with my general diet/exercise routine BUT I increased and 'regularized' my taking of "Healthy Oils":
1. krill oil supplement 2. vitamin D supplement in soybean oil 3. eating of canned sardines and/or salmon 4. olive oil (organic in a bottle).
As I say, my ONLY change was in taking more and more regularly of some of the above "Healthy Oils" and keeping up with my stretching exercises and extensive walking all over town.
I can conclude: my pain is NEARLY non-existent. Even when in a stationary position--where the mild-to-moderate pain was at its worst--I can hardly notice its existence.
Laurence22072
February 25, 2025Update: it appears the radiologist (or Physician Assistant) was in error: not sure where the error lies. It seems no arthritis was shown in the radiologist's report. My apologies for the above 'preliminary' report. However, for me, the above 'Healthy Oils' [for general health, too] and exercise properly performed has been key--squats is probably the best lower-body exercise I've done. You do not to be in fine form BUT the exercise needs to be properly performed.
Reply to this post…
Mark21971
February 13, 2025I have shoulder and lower back osteoarthritis. Have tried Glucosamine, Boswellin with nominal effect at best. Started Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) which had some effect on pain management and am still taking it. But after studying several clinical trials, identified proteolytic enzymes was shown to be as effect at pain management as diclofenac (like ibuprofen), but with much less adverse events, usually stomach upset or diarrhea. Have been taking Wobezym N (cheapest on Amazon) and it has taken all my pain away. It is a fairly rigorous treatment -- take three pills on an empty stomach (~1 hour before or after meal), three times a day. It has many benefits also in reducing fibrin, fibrosis, anti-inflammatory, and other benefits. But it has virtually stopped any OA pain. You need to titrate from two times a day for a week and then if tolerable, go to three times a day (9-12 pills a day for maximum effect). Read the ratings on Amazon for Wobezym N -- has 77% 5 rating -- very impressive. Lots of helpful testimonials for numerous types of arthritis, IBS, etc.
Reply to this post…
Marleina19500
May 14, 2024I have severe OA in my thumb joints. I would love to hear what anyone takes that helps! Thx
Charlene19557
May 24, 2024I have same issue, but both pinkies only. Weirdly, it's just the lowest joint next to fingertip.
Elizabeth19627
June 04, 2024I have OA in my thumb joints and have found that adding a scoop of collagen peptides to my daily smoothies has significantly reduced my pain.
Holly19634
June 05, 2024Charlene, I have that too. - I was told mine might be psoriatic arthritis. testing more next week.
Judi19907
July 02, 2024Thumb joints OA greatly reduced by eliminating gluten and dairy from my diet. Thankfully for me, eggs are ok.
Delicious dairy alternatives are available!
Joann20892
October 15, 2024Acupuncture helped me the most
Linda21192
November 25, 2024Where was your pain located?
Allene21515
December 30, 2024My hand joint pain was nearly eliminated when I quit eating nightshades. It seemed like over night.
Janette21520
December 31, 2024I am currently experimenting with various supplements for osteoarthritis in the base of the thumb called carpometacarpal osteoarthritis, aggravated by an old injury. I already eliminate gluten and nightshade foods. Just wanted to add that a spica thumb splint has helped immensely. Currently wearing one I paid $6 for online.
Rick Meis21572
January 05, 2025There are 2 non-pharm things that help(ed) the arthritis in my hands. Dark cherries really helped a lot, when in season. It was an acquaintance whose hubby owns a cherry orchard; all dark cherries. She noted they gave all the leftovers and culls to a neighbor during and after harvest; and his arthritis pain dropped way off. I started buying flats of cherries from them and, yup, it really helped. Now, with IBU, cherries and I don't get along.
Enter #2. Hyaluronic acid, Baxyl (Cogent Solutions). It really is noticeable. Early on, being a boy, when my hands felt better I would kind of quit. Then I noticed my hands hurt. I would start again. Repeat that countless times. Now, both my wife and I are good about taking it regularly, but living rurally, chores take a toll. So sometimes I put Votaren gel on my thumbs before bed.
Reply to this post…
Diane6704
October 09, 2023I have Osteoarthritis in both knees and low back. I have been taking Glucosamine sulfate for a few years and it has really reduced my pain. I stopped taking it for a month or so this year and tea noticed the difference. This was on recommendation from my Naturopath. I still get occasional acute pain if I overdo some athletic activity, but by and large, it is working well for me. I do not have any financial interest in this or any supplement.
Mrs. John P.21529
January 02, 2025Thanks for the information.
Reply to this post…
Elle
October 04, 2023Collagen powder helped me with a shoulder injury from falling and some (but not all) friends with knee issues.
Reply to this post…
Shannon6697
August 25, 2023For those of you who take Glucosamine, Chondroitin and or MSM for joint pain. How do you reduce the side effect of smelly flatulence? These supplements help my husband with joint pain but has this smelly side effect. If he goes off this 3-in-1 supplement the smelly gas goes away...Any suggestions
April6700
September 16, 2023I take it every day without those side effects. I use 365 extra strength chondroitin glucosamine and msm from Whole Foods.
Janet6699
October 03, 2023Some people may be more sensitive to sulphur, as in MSM, resulting in flatulence. I can't take it nor could my father.
Reply to this post…
Carl L6695
May 31, 2023What about PEA for treating peripheral neuropathic pain?
Please see our article about palmitoylethanolamide (PEA): https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/palmitoylethanolamide-health-benefits-and-safety/pea/
Reply to this post…
joel6692
May 23, 2023I took SAM-E for several years until a blood test revealed high liver enzymes that are associated with alchoholism (which I don't have). My doctor retested me 3 weeks after stopping the SAM-E, and everything was normal.
Thank you for sharing this. We are not aware of any published reports of SAMe causing elevated liver enzymes. Interestingly, it was thought that SAMe might be beneficial in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NALFD) based on laboratory research, but a preliminary study in people did not find a benefit (see our SAMe Supplements Review for details https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/sam-e-review-comparisons/same/#nafld ).
Reply to this post…
Michael6689
May 23, 2023I have debilitating rheumatoid arthritis. The only thing that alleviates the pain is Berifen. The side affect is that it hurts my kidneys. Does anyone have another solution.
Rebecca6690
June 12, 2023Hello Michael, I was diagnosed with RA after experiencing extreme pain and restricted mobility in several joints. I found a resource on Arthritis.org that has changed everything for me. I started following the diet and exercise advice given by chef Seamus Mullen in his book Real Food Heals. Within 2 months the pain started easing and I lost 20 lbs. For the past 5 years I have followed chef Mullen’s advice and have maintained a healthy weight and remained pain free. I do not have a personal or financial interest in Mr Mullen’s book.
Michael6691
August 25, 2023Michael28478: What a coincidence, my name is Michael (Mike) and I am exactly like you. I take Berefin every 24 hours for pain relief. If I don't, I am so stiff that I cannot move. I am going to see a Kidney specialist next week. I have been taking Berefin for 3 years. I think my kidneys are shot. I have had doctors give me other pills but Berefin is the only one that works. I can tell if I'm late as my muscles start to ache and stiffen up. Please keep in touch if you have found anything else other than Berefin to help.
Reply to this post…
Kristin6682
June 05, 2022Has anyone had experience with WOBENZYM?
Betsy6683
September 26, 2022I used it for several months a few years ago for all over joint pain similar to what I imagine fibromyalgia might feel like. It helped a lot—so much that I got lazy about using it and eventually stopped. I definitely need to go back on it and hope to do that soon.
Mark22216
March 11, 2025Have shoulder OA (rotator cuff) and various discs with arthritis. Started on a Wobenzym N therapy, dosed three times a day on empty stomach. Had very good results and my shoulder pain is gone and mobility is normal. Lower back is much better.
jennifer22747
May 09, 2025I’ve taken wobenzym for 10 years and it made a HUGE diff in pain levels due to OA and fibro.
I went off if once to determine and wow! It makes a world of diff. I take 3 tabs first thing in morning on empty tummy.
Reply to this post…
Dianne6678
May 18, 2022Can Tumeric/Curcumin lower blood platelets?
See the Concerns and Cautions section of our Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements and Spices Review for information about turmeric's effects on platelet activity https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/turmeric-curcumin-supplements-spice-review/turmeric/#warfarin
Reply to this post…
Deborah6675
May 17, 2022I take 1400 mg of flaxseed oil twice a day for osteoarthritis pain in my hands. It has worked well for me for many many years. (I do not have a financial interest in any supplement products.)
Michael6677
May 24, 2023Hi Deb. I just read your post. Were you taking any other supplements or ibuprofen etc on a regular basis. Thanks, Mike
Marleina6676
September 07, 2023Hi Deborah, I too have osteoarthritis in my hands. Has there been a downside to taking the flaxseed oil for many years? May I ask, did you take only a flaxseed supplement rather than a combo one that had other things in it?
Allene19196
April 03, 2024The day after I quit eating any nightshades, my arthritic hands were so much better. No potatoes, tomatoes, aubergines, etc.
Reply to this post…
Lynn6674
March 04, 2022Has anyone tried Zyflamend to reduce inflammation and/or ease athritis symptoms?
Reply to this post…
Gale6671
May 09, 2021Can persons with serious shell fish allergies safely take glucosamine and chondroitin? Are there any safe glucosamine/chondroitin supplements which do not contain shell fish?
Vegetable-based glucosamine in available as an ingredient in some products (see the "Concerns and Cautions" section of our Joint Health Supplements Review https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/review-glucosamine-chondroitin-msm-boswellia-supplements/jointsupplements/#allergic). Also see the last column of the Results table in the Review, which notes products that are labeled as "Shellfish free" ( https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/review-glucosamine-chondroitin-msm-boswellia-supplements/jointsupplements/#results).
Reply to this post…
anne6663
February 09, 2021has anyone had success using SAME for knee arthritis
ellen6665
February 24, 2021I have the same question about SAME, and also for Curcumin. My arthritis is in hands/wrists.
Glenn6664
May 05, 2021Hello. I tried SAME for 3-4 months for my osteoarthritis pain in my hands, thumbs and toes and it didn't work.
Frieda
May 17, 2022It seems to be working for me for arthritis in my hands. Very grateful!
Darren6667
May 18, 2022I have had good results helping with the condition of two arthritic knees. Torn Acl in left knee, meniscus damage in right knee. I have had surgery on the right knee. Wear a sleeve on left knee to run and play tennis. Nature made SAM e has helped me. 800-1600 mg dosage per day
nancy6666
January 31, 2023I had excellent results with Sam-e initially but then my arthritis worsened as it spread throughout my body. I was later diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. I then implemented a gluten-free and lectin-free diet (Plant Paradox diet). I am now pain free.
Lynn19905
July 02, 2024I used to get cortisone shots in both knees due to osteoarthritis. Since I have been taking Glucosamine sulfate 1500 mg and Chondroitin sulfate 1200 mg per day divided into a third dose at each meal, my knees no longer hurt. No more shots!
See the "What It Does" section of our Joint Health Supplements Review for the evidence for and against glucosamine and chondroitin for joint pain https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/review-glucosamine-chondroitin-msm-boswellia-supplements/jointsupplements/#whatitdoes.
Reply to this post…
Carol6661
September 19, 2018I'm very pleased to see all these people have been helped by using one product or another, but... they don't say what type arthritis they have, so its irrelevant to the reader as to what might work for them.. PLEASE try to be more clear in describing what you're treating. Thanks.
Reply to this post…
eve6659
September 19, 2018what about bromelain?
Hi Eve - As noted in the answer above, an enzyme supplement containing a combination of bromelain and other enzymes (Wobenzym) was found to be helpful for knee osteoarthritis. You can find more information about this in our Digestive Enzyme Supplements Review: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/digestive-enzyme-supplements/digestive-enzymes/#inflammation
Reply to this post…
Judy6658
September 19, 2018Boswellia has done wonders for me! I rarely have knee pain anymore. I was getting injections in my knee periodically for the pain, but that's been over 3 years ago. I've taken Solaray Boswellia for at least 2-3 years. In addition, I ride a stationary bike for 30 minute 4-5 times a week which has also helped. I'm 67.
Reply to this post…
SUSAN6657
May 10, 2018Black currant seed oil capsules have helped my arthritis, only 600mg a day but u can take much more!
Reply to this post…
Neville6653
March 18, 2018Borax (boron) solved my arthritis problems. It may be difficult to source in the US. Pharmaceutical companies have done their best to ban it.
Hi Neville - Thank you for sharing your experience with this. There is some preliminary evidence that boron may be helpful for osteoarthritis. Please see this CL Answer https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/why-are-there-boron-nickel-and-tin-in-my-multivitamin/boron-nickel-tin/.
jeffrey6654
June 23, 2021Boron has worked wonders for my osteoarthritis. I have no financial interest in the product.
Reply to this post…
Kathleen6641
October 18, 2017What strength of curcumin is safe to take with "Doctors Best" high absorption with BioPerine. I am taking 1000mg and would like to take stronger
Hi Kathleen - Please see this CL Answer: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/i-take-1000-mg-of-a-high-absorption-curcumin-extract-it-seems-to-be-working-but-would-it-be-safe-to-take-a-larger-dose/high-dose-curcumin/
Reply to this post…
Arch6637
May 28, 2017MSM has worked for me.
It provides sulfur and perhaps if your blood is insufficient in this, the MSM will work until cartridge's need for sulfur is satisfied.
Elizabeth6638
October 22, 2017MSM has been helpful for my son and me for knee pain.
Reply to this post…
D4802
May 28, 2017It's a shame that glucosamine/chondroitment tablets gets such bad press simply because a study found it doesn't help with knee arthritis. I and 4 other people I know swear by it for our shoulder and hand arthritis. I wish someone would do a more thorough study.
lynne6627
October 18, 2017I agree it works well for myself and my husband!
Cameron6628
August 29, 2019My father became wheelchair bound due to arthritis in his hips. Glucosamine/Chondroitin dramatically turned things around for him. The wheel chair ended up collecting dust in the garage.
Saundra6624
May 21, 2020Glucosamine Sulfate works very well for me. I went off it for awhile just to see if it would make a difference. In a couple months I was right back to pain everywhere. When I take it, I don't feel pain anywhere. I'm talking pain as in couldn't shift my weight to one leg while standing because it hurt too much. Glucosamine is a life saver for me!
susan6634
July 02, 2022It worked for me when i got sore knees running. After awhile I didn't need to take it anymore. I was much younger - 20s. I don't know if it would work now that i'm older.
Reply to this post…
peggy6611
May 12, 2017I have been using magnesium oil to rub on my feet at night and it has helped with the pain of a severely arthritic foot. I have also noted that I no longer get cramps in my feet at night. I'm 78 so I think that I was not absorbing the Magnesium that I had been taking in a pill. As a side note, magnesium oil is actually not an oil but water combined with Magnesium which becomes oily. The only side effect is a slight tingling in the area which goes away. The combination of magnesium oil and Boswellia has allowed me to continue my daily walks with little pain.
kyehos
October 18, 2017I have found the same type of benefit from direct application of magnesium oil onto the skin surface despite taking magnesium in capsule form.
Curtis W6617
December 20, 2020About 15 years ago my knees were hurting and it was difficult to get up and down the basement stairs.. I started taking Cosamin DS which is glucosamine HCl worth can Chrondrotin. Not sure how long it took but I will soon able to go up and down the steps without pain and then I realize this stuff is working. I am now 81 years old and I have no joint pain other than my knuckle on my left hand index finger. I now take Body Dynamics joint renewal because it has several more ingredients in it like MSM, hyaluronic acid, I also think it’s critical to start early before you get bone on bone.
I can even keep up with my kids and grandkids at Disney World, and ride all the rides. That’s called a blessing.
Gale6615
September 07, 2021I've taken Curcumin and Boswellia for many yrs. which lessens Celiac-and arthritic pain. And, as my inherited osteoarthritis in hands and feet worsened this past yr., I've found rubbing Magnesium Oil into hands and feet morning and at bedtime has amazedly reduced pain and joint swelling, --so much so that feet joints and badly deformed fingers on my right hand now appear nearly normal with little to no redness!
A year ago, an orthopedic physician told me "nothing will stop your joint degeneration, but thanks to Magnesium Oil --plus remedies described above, that's simply not true. I have a severe allergy to certain oral pain relievers which can often be more harmful than helpful.
Comfortable, well-fitting orthopedic shoes/sandals are a must, as is exercise, so we can stay strong and keep on enjoying life ConsumerLab reports are very helpful! Keep up the good work!!
Please see our Magnesium Review for more information about magnesium oil, creams and sprays https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/magnesium-supplement-review/magnesium/#spray.
Gale6613
October 25, 2021I'd like to add that this allergy season, when I, once again, began taking Stinging Nettle capsules for allergy relief, I found it also reduced my arthritis pain and swelling. Reading up, I found nettle is an old, trusted remedy ford both allergies and arthritis. Young nettles are easily found this time of year (to pick, wear gloves- it stings, however, cooking removes sting). It's good as a tea or cooked as a vegetable; however, it's easier to buy the inexpensive capsules for allergy and/or arthritis relief with no side effects.
Reply to this post…
peggy6606
January 11, 2017I am so thankful for Boswellia which has reduced my joint pain significantly.
Victoria6608
May 28, 2017Significant pain relief for me with boswelia
Carol6607
May 22, 2019I have never seen Boswelia marketed by itself, only combined with other ingredients in a capsule. Please comment on what product you use. Thank you.
Carrie6609
June 23, 2021I've tried Boswellia but found it gave me stomach pain.
Reply to this post…