Best supplement for osteoarthritis: a pharmacist’s opinion (2025)

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We analyzed 18 products sold online according to 7 criteria, and selected these 3 dietary supplements for osteoarthritis:

Best complex for osteoarthritis 🥇
> The Joint Formula – Nutri&Co

Best pack for osteoarthritis
> Osteoarthritis Pack – Nutripure

Best collagen for joints
> Marine Collagen – Twenty DC

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Our selection criteria

• Active ingredients : list of active ingredients contained in the dietary supplement.
• Form : supplements can come as capsules or powder, each format having its advantages and disadvantages
• Excipients : quality supplements have no artificial excipients (coloring, preservatives, sweeteners, flavors..)
• Certificates of analysis : verification of the absence of heavy metals and questionable solvents
• Prix / jour : this is the price per day for the treatment at the daily dose recommended by the brand.
• Customer reviews : these customer reviews of the product are sourced from the brand’s website, review sites, or Amazon.
• Our opinion on the brand : based on the monthly tests of supplement brands that we conduct.

Best natural anti-inflammatory for osteoarthritis: our opinion

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#1 : Best complex for osteoarthritis 🥇

This joint health complex is an excellent choice given the number and quality of its active ingredients.

It contains hyaluronic acid, which is present in cartilage, where it contributes to shock-absorbing function and to some flexibility. The active ingredient used is high-quality: it is patented and has been studied in clinical trials.

Two other patented ingredients complete this supplement: a boswellia extract particularly rich in AKBA, a compound that acts specifically on joint inflammation; and a mangosteen extract standardized to alpha-mangostin and gamma-mangostin, which targets inflammation after just 5 days of use.

In addition, vitamin C contributes to the body’s formation of collagen.

We like the Nutri&Co brand because it is reliable and transparent (read our full review here to learn more). We also note that customer reviews are very good.

This brand is based in Aix-en-Provence and places particular importance on the quality of the active ingredients in its products.

→ Free surprise promo code = DARWINGIFT (min. order €70)

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Best pack for osteoarthritis

We selected this pack for osteoarthritis developed by the Nutripure laboratory because it is particularly comprehensive (it contains 3 different supplements).

Arthropure contains chondroitin, glucosamine, MSM and boswellia, active ingredients recognized for their beneficial effect on osteoarthritis, and which have been the subject of numerous scientific studies.

Collagen powder protects against cartilage loss and helps relieve joint pain thanks to its anti-inflammatory action. Here it is hydrolyzed, and therefore well absorbed by the body.

Finally, this pack contains curcumin, a benchmark active ingredient for fighting inflammation. The form offered is highly bioavailable thanks to its innovative and patented formulation (39X better absorbed than a regular extract).

These 3 supplements are pure, free of artificial excipients, and particularly effective when used together. They can also be purchased separately.

Nutripure was co-founded by two brothers, a high-level athlete and an engineer. The ingredients offered by the laboratory are of high quality and avoid food additives as much as possible.

Manufacturing is French and the prices are fair (see our full review of the brand).

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Best collagen for joints

Twenty DC’s marine collagen is of excellent quality. It is hydrolyzed, which optimizes its absorption by the body (95% bioavailable).

Collagen helps strengthen joints, improve mobility, and makes hair silky and less prone to breakage.

The first effects are noticeable after 20 days of use, when taking one 10g scoop of powder per day.

This collagen is available in neutral, strawberry and caramel flavors, allowing you to vary the taste. It is made in France and sourced from sustainable aquaculture.

Twenty DC is a young French brand specializing in collagen dietary supplements. All its products are made in France from premium ingredients.

A discount of up to 10% is applied when purchasing multiple products.

→ Promo code for a free water bottle = DARWINGIFT (note: you must add the water bottle to your cart before entering the code – min. order €70)

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Joint pain and osteoarthritis

What causes painful joints?

Joint pain can have multiple causes: osteoarthritis, gout, inflammation of the tendons or ligaments.

These conditions are more common in older adults, athletes, or when overweight. 

Cartilage is a tissue that surrounds the surface of bones in the joints. It contains chondrocytes, cells that produce collagen and enable joint strength and elasticity.

With time, repeated trauma, or with a genetic predisposition, these molecules are produced less and their quality deteriorates.

Symptoms of joint pain, swelling, and a reduction in flexibility and mobility then occur.

How to preserve and strengthen joints? 

In daily life, regular physical activity helps prevent and reduce cartilage weakening. Be careful, very high-impact activities like running or boxing can instead damage the joints. 

Wear shock-absorbing shoes, avoid wearing very high heels, and limit repetitive movements : painting, gardening…

Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet:

• focus on omega-3s (fish and vegetable oils)
• focus on dried fruits and oilseeds (almonds, hazelnuts, cashews)
• remember to eat enough protein, necessary for the formation and strengthening of the body’s tissues. 

Antioxidants, the protectors of our cells, are essential for preserving the health of our joints. They are found in fresh vegetables and fruits, garlic and onions, spices such as the turmeric, and green tea.

Reduce salty and sugary intake, such as pastries and cakes, and cured meats. 

The best active ingredients for joints

Chondroitin sulfate

Chondroitin is a cartilage substance, ensuring joint support and elasticity. It is also present in tendons and the walls of our arteries. 

A review of trials of varying quality observed that chondroitin more effectively improved pain in patients suffering from osteoarthritis compared to those taking placebo. 

Another study concluded that chondroitin significantly reduced pain and increased overall mobility.

Glucosamine

It is often combined with chondroitin in dietary supplements. Glucosamine is naturally synthesized from glucose and glutamine, an amino acid.

It is a molecule present in the structure of cartilage, allowing the lubrication of the joints. Its production decreases over time, leading to cartilage degeneration.

In a study, glucosamine was compared to ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory commonly used for joint inflammation and for osteoarthritis.

In 200 patients with knee osteoarthritis, taking glucosamine sulfate for 3 months proved to be as effective as ibuprofen on symptoms, with fewer adverse effects. 

Hyaluronic acid

It is a natural component of synovial fluid, the lubricant of the joints. This compound fights osteoarthritis by indirectly blocking the destruction of cartilage.

It is used regularly in the treatment of osteoarthritis, by injection directly into the painful joint areas.

A clinical trial observed that a daily oral hyaluronic acid supplement improved the quality of life of patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis.

Collagen

Collagen is a very abundant protein in our body, notably in the bones, skin and cartilage. It supports the integrity of tendons and slows the onset of joint disorders. 

A clinical trial shows that athletes taking collagen for 24 weeks experienced a reduction in joint pain at rest or during movement.

MSM

This molecule, still little known, proves promising for relieving osteoarthritis, and has the advantage of not causing side effects, unlike continuous use of anti-inflammatory medications.

MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane is a sulfur-rich micronutrient, and is present in small amounts in certain foods such as fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, and seafood.

In a placebo-controlled trial, patients with osteoarthritis over three months reported a reduction in pain and an improvement in physical function.

Harpagophytum

More commonly known as devil’s claw, its roots have anti-inflammatory properties recognized by the European Pharmacopoeia.

Harpagophytum contains harpagosides, unique molecules that have the ability to block the process of pain and inflammation.  

Numerous studies confirm its effectiveness: the daily intake of 2.4 grams of devil’s claw root extract for 12 weeks in 75 patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis showed a marked reduction in pain and an improvement in mobility.

Boswellia 

Another flagship plant used in treating joint inflammation is Boswellia serrata extract. This plant contains an active compound called boswellic acid, which inhibits the synthesis of the body’s inflammatory molecules. 

A meta-analysis (a collection of several trials) evaluated the effects of Boswellia compared with a placebo, a drug with no therapeutic effect, in 545 patients.

Taking Boswellia for at least 4 weeks helped relieve pain and stiffness, and improve joint function.

Horsetail

Traditionally, other remineralizing plants are used, such as nettle or horsetail, in the treatment of joint pain. 

Horsetail contains a considerable amount of silica (silicic acid and silicates) and flavonoids (antioxidants).

Silicon is a mineral that promotes collagen formation, a protein essential for the health of our joints.

Turmeric 

This spice contains curcuminoids, notably curcumin, with natural anti-inflammatory activity. This unique composition is used to relieve joint symptoms. 

Some scientific evidence indicates that 8 to 12 weeks of treatment with turmeric extracts (on average 1000 mg/day of curcumin) reduce arthritis symptoms and similarly improve symptoms compared with conventional anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. 

In what form

In capsules and tablets

Most joint dietary supplements are available in these forms. They allow achieving sufficient concentrations of active ingredients, and good preservation.

Administration is easy and avoids poor adherence during long-term treatments, particularly in osteoarthritis where regimens typically last several months.

In powder 

MSM and collagen are found either in capsules or in powder form. This form is easily absorbed, and a daily dose is generally sufficient.

Athletes frequently use it in their energy drinks; it dissolves in water or another beverage. 

In oral solution

To be diluted in water using a measuring cap, the concentrated solutions contain plant extracts that are sources of minerals (horsetail, nettle, bamboo), or directly minerals such as silicon. 

Collagen is also available in drinkable stick form. Be aware that this form has very variable concentrations and quality of active ingredients. 

As an infusion

Infusions are an effective way to use remineralizing and anti-inflammatory plants: horsetail, nettle, blackcurrant.

Herbal tea has the advantage of being simple to prepare and pleasant to drink, and provides hydration to the body. 

Infusions require multiple intakes, generally two to three cups per day, to expect a significant effect.

Criteria to consider

1. Origin of active ingredients

Some active ingredients present in dietary supplements are animal-derived: synthetic chondroitin is bovine, porcine, or may come from rays or sharks.

Glucosamine comes from crustacean shells.

Collagen is marine-derived, bovine, or derived from hydrolyzed egg membrane.

2. The form 

The form used affects its absorption. For glucosamine, favor the sulfate form, cheaper and more effective than the hydrochloride form.

For collagen, prefer the hydrolyzed form: collagen is a very high-molecular-weight protein, not assimilable by the body. Choose a collagen with a weight between 2,000 and 6,000 Daltons, better assimilated by the body.

For hyaluronic acid, the label \”low molecular weight\” guarantees good absorption.  

The form of the plants used in dietary supplements directly determines effectiveness: turn to a standardized plant extract, ensuring a sufficient amount of active ingredient. 

3. The active ingredient content

Chondroitin and glucosamine should have respective concentrations of 1200 mg and 1500 mg spread throughout the day in 2 to 3 doses. 

The content also varies depending on the form used: for collagen, a dose of 2.5 to 10 g for powder is recommended, and 2.5 to 3 grams for capsules.

For herbal products, check that the main active ingredient is present in sufficient amounts. For example, harpagophytum extracts should contain 1.2 to 2% harpagosides (or provide a dose of 50 to 100 mg of harpagosides per day).

 Standardized Boswellia extracts should contain 65% boswellic acid. 

4. The presence of excipients

Many additives can make their way into dietary supplements, especially when the product contains several different active ingredients.

Choose a supplement without additives, preservatives, sweeteners, or artificial colors and flavors. It should be as natural as possible.

Precautions for use

If you are on medication, seek medical advice before self-medicating, especially with herbal remedies.

Harpagophytum, for example, is contraindicated during pregnancy, in cases of ulcers, gallstones, and stomach disorders.

Glucosamine is not recommended in cases of diabetes, asthma, or shellfish allergies. 

Some adverse effects have been reported with chondroitin: itching, liver problems. 

Finally, as a precaution due to the lack of long-term data on its use, MSM during pregnancy is not recommended, nor during chemotherapy or in cases of kidney disorders. 

To summarize

To make sure you choose high-quality dietary supplements for joints, check:

1. Origin of active ingredients : they are often of animal origin
2. Form : sulfate for glucosamine, hydrolyzed for collagen, low molecular weight for hyaluronic acid, standardized extract for plants
3. Active ingredient content : for harpagophytum, 1.2 to 2% harpagosides is recommended, for example
4. Presence of excipients : choose a supplement without additives, preservatives, sweeteners, artificial colors or flavors

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Best pack for osteoarthritis

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Best complex for osteoarthritis

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Best collagen for joints

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