The Effectiveness of Elaeagnus Angustifolia Versus Curcumin in Osteoarthritis of the Knee - A Triple-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Osteoarthritis is a common cause of knee pain and disability. So far, limited studies have been performed on the effects of herbal medicines containing Elaeagnus angustifolia versus curcumin extracts on knee osteoarthritis. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the therapeutic effect of Elaeagnus angustifolia vs. curcumin extracts in mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.

This clinical trial study was performed on 50 patients with knee osteoarthritis in Isfahan during 2019-2020. Patients' pain and function were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and the Roles and Maudsley Scale. Patients were divided into two groups and treated orally with 250 mg Elartrit capsules (Elaeagnus angustifolia extract) and with 370 mg Curcumin capsules (curcumin extract) (one capsule every 12 hours for 15 days). Variables were compared before, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks after treatment. Also, the outcomes were compared between two groups.

The use of both drugs was effective in treating pain and improving patients' function. After 4 weeks, patients had no differences in the following items: knee discomfort, joint stiffness, pain, daily activity, exercise and recreation, quality of life and total score of KOOS questionnaire. Also, in terms of functional status, there was no significant difference between the two groups. However, compared to the beginning of the study, patients in both groups had significant improvements in parameters of joint stiffness, pain, daily activity, and the total score of the KOOS questionnaire during the study.

In improving pain, joint stiffness (VAS and KOOS questionnaire) and function (Roles and Maudsley Scale) in patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, there is no difference between Elaeagnus angustifolia and curcumin extracts in the short-term treatment.