A study to evaluate anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin longa and fenugreek in osteoarthritis – A randomized, triple blind, placebo controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA), is a leading causes of disability. Herbal medications are often used as an alternative to allopathic drugs to manage symptoms of osteoarthritis. Objectives: This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin longa & fenugreek extracts in patients of KOA (knee osteoarthritis). Methods: Patients were randomized into four groups. Group 1 received placebo (glucose 500mg), Group 2 curcumin longa (CL 500mg), Group 3 Fenugreek (FE 500mg) and Group 4 combination (CL 500 mg + FE 500 mg). Also, aceclofenac 100 mg twice daily was given to all patients. Groups were compared using VAS & WOMAC scores, as well as, by changes seen in serum level of IL-1β and SOD at 0, 60 and 120 days. Results: VAS and WOMAC scores, IL - 1 β level significantly reduced, while SOD level significantly increased in CL, FE, and (CL+FE) groups as compared to placebo at 60 and 120 days. Though the effect in FE group is not significant in 60 days, significant improvement was seen at 120 days. Conclusion: Curcumin longa and Fenugreek may be effective in reducing progression and pain of OA, and can be combined with NSAIDs. They are not known to produce any side effects and have better tolerability.

Keywords

• nsaids
• vas
• womac
• sod
• arthritis
• curcumin longa
• fenugreek