Data published in the Journal of Medicinal Food indicated that one week of supplementation with the polyphenol-rich ingredient may reduce perceived pain, in addition to improvements in the knee range of motion.
The publication is said to be the 13th human clinical study to be published on Unigen’s Univestin ingredient.
The study’s findings were welcomed by Thomas Niederkorn, PhD, Unigen’s chief business officer. “The expansion of Univestin’s claims to include rapid relief confirms what we had already been hearing through our commercial partners. Univestin works quickly and effectively at reducing stiffness and discomfort while improving mobility.”
“This is another example of the continuing clinical support we provide to our commercial partners as we strive to provide efficacious and safe ingredients that will have a meaningful impact on people’s lives,” he added.
Study details
The study, which was funded by Seattle-based Unigen, involved 79 people with having mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Participants received either Univestin (500 mg per day) or the commonly prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) naproxen (440 mg per day).
Results indicated that both groups experienced reductions in stiffness and pain, while only the Univestin group experienced a significant 6% improvement in knee range of motion after one week period, compared to a 0.1% decrease in the naproxen group.
“In summary, the results of this study suggest that, similar to that of naproxen, UP446 is capable of reducing perceived joint pain and stiffness while also improving joint flexibility,” wrote the researchers, from Florida State University.
“Our findings also provide additional evidence for the analgesic effects of plant extracts S. baicalensis and A. catechu. Whether or not the supplement offers improvements in mobility will require further investigation.”
Source: Journal of Medicinal Food
Published online ahead of print, doi: 10.1089/jmf.2013.0010
“A Combination of Scutellaria Baicalensis and Acacia Catechu Extracts for Short-Term Symptomatic Relief of Joint Discomfort Associated with Osteoarthritis of the Knee”
Authors: B.H. Arjmandi, L.T. Ormsbee, M.L. Elam, S.C. Campbell, N. Rahnama, M.E. Payton, K. Brummel-Smith, B.P. Daggy.