Efficacy of Boswellia serrata Extract and/or an Omega-3-Based Product for Improving Pain and Function in People Older Than 40 Years with Persistent Knee Pain: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

A single-center, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial with four arms was conducted in healthy subjects with persistent knee discomfort (pain intensity on 1-10 cm visual analog scale (VAS) > 3) aged 40 years and older treated with a dietary supplement for 8 weeks. The study groups were <i>Boswellia serrata</i> extract (<i>n</i> = 29), an omega-3-based product (AvailOm^® 50 High EPA) (<i>n</i> = 31), <i>Boswellia</i> + AvailOm^® (<i>n</i> = 30), and placebo (<i>n</i> = 30). The intake of <i>Boswellia</i> + AvailOm^® improved the quality of life (QoL) (WOMAC index) and some variables of muscle strength. Statistically significant differences between the AvailOm^® and the placebo groups in the decrease of pain intensity were found. Weekly VAS scores showed a significant decrease in pain perception when comparing the AvailOm^® product to the placebo, with the lowest VAS scores at week 8. Consumption of <i>Boswellia</i> improved sleep latency. The time to perform the Up and Go test decreased after the intake of AvailOm^®. There was an increase in the omega-3 fatty acids, with the greatest increase in the <i>Boswellia</i> + AvailOm^® group. AvailOm^® was safe and effective in reducing pain and improving the QoL and functionality of subjects over 40 years with persistent knee pain.