Fish oil
Fish Oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids: docosahexaenoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid, which both have anti-inflammatory properties. There are some studies out there that have found fish oil to be effective for those with osteoarthritis. In one study, it was found that those who took 200 mg of EPA and 400 mg of DHA (fish oil’s active ingredients) daily for 16 weeks experienced less chronic pain."
Glucosamine
There are technically two kinds of glucosamine (a component that is naturally found in cartilage) that can be found in joint support supplements. These are called glucosamine hydrochloride and glucosamine sulfate. Studies have found glucosamine sulfate to improve joint pain symptoms more effectively than glucosamine hydrochloride.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is another component naturally found in cartilage, and when taken as a chondroitin supplement it may help prevent the cartilage from breaking down and leading to osteoarthritis. According to Healthline, studies have found that "About 53 percent of people who take chondroitin have a 20 percent or greater improvement in knee pain."
SAMe
SAMe or S-adenosyl-L-methionine is naturally produced by our liver from an amino acid called methionine, which works to produce and repair cartilage among other things.
Boswellia
AKA Indian frankincense contains anti-inflammatory chemicals called Boswellia acid. Researchers believe Boswellia prevents the formation of leukotrienes, which are molecules that can cause inflammation.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Methylsulfonylmethane is naturally found in all living things including plants, animals, and people. Studies have found that MSM may be effective at reducing inflammation and preventing cartilage breakdown. In one study, 100 people over 50 found that "taking 1,200 mg of MSM for 12 weeks decreased pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, compared to a placebo".
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that can be found in cartilage and is key for preventing cartilage breakdown. Researchers have found that collagen has the potential to not only protect cartilage and relieve pain but can even help with improving bone health and strength.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, including the bones that make up our joints, as it helps our bodies absorb calcium, one of the main building blocks of strong bones. Vitamin D also helps regulate phosphate, which in turn helps us move and contract the muscles surrounding the joints.
Devil’s Claw
Also referred to as harpagophytum, the devil's claw is full of the anti-inflammatory chemical harpagoside. While clinical studies are limited, one study found that devil's claw was found to be about as effective as an anti-inflammatory drug called diacerein.