The number of non-pharmaceutical options for the management of osteoarthritis has grown considerably over the last few years. I’m particularly excited about a new, mineral-rich nutraceutical derived from a species of Irish marine algae that has shown promise for improving joint function and reducing the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis.
The product, marketed as Aquamin, is derived from Lithothamnion coralliodes, a form of red algae indigenous to the southwestern coast of Ireland, as well as the cold waters around Iceland. Lithothamnion, though definitely not a true coral, is characterized by the mineral-dense, coral-like “skeletons” known as “maërl,” that it forms over the course of its life-cycle.
In a recent double blind, placebo controlled pilot study, 22 men and women with moderate to severe osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, were randomized to take Aquamin (2,400 mg per day) or a placebo, for 12 consecutive weeks. At baseline, all patients were using NSAIDs daily, and these were gradually withdrawn over the course of the study. Fourteen subjects completed the trial.
Researchers measured 6-minute walking distance, range of motion, pain and joint mobility of the knee using standard Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) assessment scales, as well as NSAID use.
While there were no significant differences in pain and joint mobility scores, the Aquamin-treated patients showed statistically significant improvements in passive and active extension, and increased 6-minute walking distances compared to the placebo group. Notably, there was a 50% reduction in overall NSAID use in the Aquamin group, though the mineral supplement did not entirely eliminate NSAID use (Frestedt J, Kuskowski M, Zenk J. Nutrition Journal 2009; 8:7).
Though this study is very small, and the findings are preliminary, they are noteworthy because there are no known adverse effects associated with Aquamin, taken at recommended dosages. The side-effects associated with chronic NSAID use are considerable.
The type of seaweed from which Aquamin is derived is especially rich in calcium and magnesium. It also contains a host of trace minerals including manganese, selenium, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, iron, boron, sodium, cobalt and copper. Some of these minerals, particularly magnesium, boron, and manganese, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which could partially account for the benefits observed in the Aquamin trial.
Calcium, comprising about 34% of the Aquamin formula, has been shown in past studies to reduce the pain and symptom burden of OA of the knee and/or hip. Whether the observed effects are due to the calcium, one or more of the other minerals, or a phytonutrient in the product, this study suggests that Aquamin is a potential treatment for moderate to severe OA of the knee, one that is able to reduce the use of NSAIDs, improve walking distance and range of motion.
Aquamin is produced from the “skeletal” structures of sustainably managed and harvested Lithothamnion algae. It is marketed by Marigot Ltd, a company based in County Cork, Ireland, and focused on development of innovative nutritional ingredients from the ocean. Only mature segments of the plants are harvested at the end of their 5-year-life cycles, meaning that the plants themselves remain intact and able to regenerate themselves. For more information, visit: http://www.aquamin.org/.
