Assessing the effectiveness and NSAIDs sparing effect of celery seeds and Boswellia serrata in osteoarthritis management

: This study examines the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Celery seed and extracts as potential alternatives for OA treatment, focusing on their effectiveness in reducing pain and improving joint functionality. Osteoarthritis (OA), a prevalent joint disorder, particularly affects the knees and hips. Current management primarily involves NSAIDs, which can lead to severe side effects, especially in older adults with comorbidities. A multicentre observational study enrolled 394 participants clinically diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis. They continued their usual treatment while taking Celery seeds and extract tablet twice daily for three months. Primary outcomes included Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) scores and changes in painkiller and NSAID usage. Secondary outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores. The study demonstrated significant improvements in primary outcome measures: WOMAC score improved by 17.07% (p<0.001), WOMAC pain score by 75.00% (p<0.001), WOMAC stiffness score by 72.05% (p<0.001) and WOMAC physical function score by 78.93% (p<0.001). Secondary outcomes showed VAS score reductions at rest by 67.17% (p<0.001) and during movement by 64.28% (p<0.001). There was a notable decrease in NSAID usage from baseline 70.09% to 31.89% (p<0.001). Celery seeds and extract demonstrate promising efficacy as a safer and effective adjunctive therapy for knee osteoarthritis, offering pain relief, enhanced joint functionality and potential reduction in NSAID usage.