Effects of Oral Administration of Anthriscus Sylvestris Leaves on Mild Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disorder that causes pain, stiffness, and functional impairment. Current treatments for OA are limited to symptom relief and have potential side effects. Anthriscus sylvestris leaves are a natural remedy that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cartilage-protective effects in animal models of OA. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 100 participants aged 40 to 75 with Kellgren & Lawrence grade 1 or 2 knee OA. Participants were assigned to receive either 500 mg of Anthriscus sylvestris leaves extract or placebo daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score from baseline to week 12. Secondary outcomes included the changes in visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) from baseline to week 12. The Anthriscus sylvestris leaves extract group showed a significant improvement in the total WOMAC score, as well as the pain, stiffness, and physical function sub-scores, compared with the placebo group after 12 weeks of treatment. The Anthriscus sylvestris leaves extract group also showed a significant reduction in VAS and CRP, but not in ESR, compared with the placebo group. No adverse events or safety concerns were reported in either group. Anthriscus sylvestris leaves extract enhanced joint and cartilage health in humans with mild OA symptoms, as indicated by the reduction in WOMAC, VAS, and CRP. The extract was also safe and well-tolerated. Anthriscus sylvestris leaves extract may be a promising natural alternative for the management and prevention of OA.