Unexpected Help for Older Adults with Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is too common and leads to restrictions on movement and disability. Conventional treatments are limited by side effects and only short term relief of symptoms. Another safe, effective, natural treatment would be welcome.

30-45% of Americans over 65 suffer from osteoarthritis in their knee. This new study gave 100 people between the ages of 60 and 80 who had knee osteoarthritis and were undergoing conventional treatment either no additional treatment, oral olive leaf extract, topical olive leaf extract or both for 8 weeks.

All three olive leaf extract groups improved their scores of pain and daily function significantly greater than the placebo group. The oral olive leaf group decreased their pain by 0.89 units per time, and the topical group had pain reductions of 1.19 units per time. The group with the best pain reduction was the one that used the olive leaf internally and topically.

The study concluded that “Olive leaf extract offers a promising complementary treatment with fewer side effects than conventional NSAIDs.”

Explore. March-April 2025;21(2):103136.

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For much more on preventing and treating osteoarthritis, see our book The Family Naturopathic Encyclopedia.

For comprehensive natural help with your health, including osteoarthritis, make an appointment to see Linda Woolven now. Linda’s clinic is now open for in person and virtual appointments.

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