Collectively, the results of this study position A. conyzoides as a promising, safe, and well-tolerated adjunct or alternative to current pharmacological approaches. Further investigations of longer duration and larger sample sizes, incorporating imaging measures, are warranted to confirm efficacy.

A plant commonly known as "billygoat weed" (Ageratum conyzoides) has a long tradition of use in ethnomedicine for a wide range of conditions, including rheumatism, inflammatory pain, fever, and headaches.

Building on this history, a recent 12-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study investigated its effect on osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms in ageing adults. The study included 70 adults aged 45 and older with clinically diagnosed osteoarthritis. Participants were given either 250 mg of a special pyrrolizidine alkaloid-free A. conyzoides extract or a placebo to take daily for 12 weeks.

Researchers found that the group taking A. conyzoides had statistically significant reductions in their total WOMAC scores (a measure of pain, stiffness, and function) compared to the placebo group at both week 9 and week 12. Pain scores, measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), were also significantly lower for the supplement group at weeks 9 and 12.

Furthermore, the A. conyzoides group showed significant improvements in quality-of-life domains related to pain and role limitations due to physical health. The supplement also significantly reduced plasma levels of two inflammatory markers, IL-6 and IL-8, compared to placebo. The study concluded that A. conyzoides supplementation is a safe and effective option for reducing osteoarthritis symptoms.

3. Disclaimers

• This information is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

• The study discussed was conducted on human adults aged 45 and older with clinically diagnosed mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis. The findings may not apply to individuals with severe OA or other conditions.

• Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, supplement regimen, or treatment plan, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications.

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Rao A, Gorman A, Subah S, Muntha S, Bogoda N, Briskey D. Effect of Ageratum Conyzoides on Osteoarthritis in an Ageing Adult Population: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Parallel Study. Nutraceuticals. 2025;5(4):35. doi:10.3390/nutraceuticals5040035

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