The Efficacy and Safety of Green-Lipped Mussel Extract Plus Ginkgo Biloba on Anti-Inflammatory Status in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Background: Clinical research on the efficacy of nutraceutical compounds recommended for the relief of osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms has been largely disputed. In addition, no link has been established between its safety and efficacy in Kurdish population. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of New Zealand green-lipped mussel extract + Ginkgo biloba (GLME+) in patients with OA, and analyze the effect of GLME+ on inflammation. Methods: In an open-label, single-group allocation study, 40 patients diagnosed with knee OA were administrated 1000 mg/day of New Zealand green-lipped mussel extract and 100 mg/day of Ginkgo biloba for eight weeks. The outcome measure was scored using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities arthritis index (WOMAC). The serum concentration of inflammatory chemokine (CCL3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were measured. An intention-to-treat analysis was employed and subject data at T0 and T8 weeks. Results: Results showed a significant improvement in WOMAC score in post-treated OA patients with GLME+ (P<0.001). In addition, CCL3 serum levels were significantly decreased after an 8-week intervention (P<0.001). Moreover, no statistical significance was observed within groups in MPO serum levels (P> 0.05). Conclusions: GLME+ improved knee joint pain, stiffness, and mobility in OA patients. Two of GLME+'s chondroprotective properties were the reduction of oxidative damage and the inhibition of inflammation, both of which have been linked to the etiology of OA cartilage destruction. The findings indicated that GLME+ may be useful in the treatment of OA patients.