What does it do? Green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) is a New Zealand shellfish, from which an extract has been shown to be useful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). Green-lipped mussel inhibits inflammation in the body. Although inflammation is normal under certain conditions, consistent or excessive inflammation can result in pain and damage to the body, including the joints. The human body makes several chemical mediators of inflammation. Levels of these chemicals in the body may be higher in people with RA who are experiencing symptoms than in symptom-free people with arthritis.1 Evidence indicates that controlling the production of inflammatory mediators in the body may help improve conditions such as arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease (including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease), all of which involve elements of inflammation.2
Research on green-lipped mussel has thus far focused on OA and RA. Although some studies have failed to demonstrate therapeutic benefit of green-lipped mussel in people with arthritis,3 4 the outcomes of other studies have been more positive.5 6 7 In one trial, both freeze-dried powder and lipid extract of green-lipped mussel were effective at reducing symptoms in 70% of people with OA and 76% of people with RA.8 A similar study of people with either OA or RA showed green-lipped mussel reduced pain in 50% and 67% of the patients, respectively, after three months of supplementation.9
In 1986, dried mussel extracts became available that were stabilized with a preservative. The earlier studies that found no beneficial effect of green-lipped mussel on arthritis all used preparations that had not been stabilized, a point that may help explain some of the discrepancies in the research. One recent animal study compared the two forms and found a stabilized lipid extract to be significantly more effective than a non-stabilized extract at inhibiting inflammation.10 Because both forms are currently available on the market, it may be prudent to check on the form.
NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, are often used for inflammatory conditions. However, most of these medications can produce the unfortunate side effect of stomach irritation, which may lead to stomach ulcer if taken frequently. One animal study found that green-lipped mussel significantly reduced stomach ulcers resulting from taking NSAIDs.11
Where is it found? Green-lipped mussels are found in the oceans off New Zealand. In supplement form, green-lipped mussel is available as a lipid extract or a freeze-dried powder.
Green-lipped mussel has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Rating | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 |
Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis |
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary
studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use,
or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit. |
|
Who is likely to be deficient? Because green-lipped mussel is not an essential nutrient, deficiencies do not occur.
How much is usually taken? The studies on green-lipped mussel have used 210 mg per day of the lipid extract or 1,050–1,150 mg per day of the freeze-dried powder.
Are there any side effects or interactions? Not all studies have demonstrated side effects; however, members of the Australian Rheumatism Association have reported side effects, such as stomach upset, gout, and skin rashes, occurring in people taking certain New Zealand green-lipped mussel extracts.12 Another researcher observed nausea, flatulence, and fluid retention in some of the study participants,13 and one case of hepatitis has been reported in association with the use of the substance.14
People with shellfishallergy should consult a doctor before taking green-lipped mussel. Compared to lipid preparations, freeze-dried preparations contain substantially more of the protein fraction responsible for allergic reactions.
References:
1. Gursel T, Firat S, Ercan ZS. Increased serum leukotriene B4 level in the active stage of rheumatoid arthritis in children. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1997;56:205–7.
2. Henderson WR Jr. The role of leukotrienes in inflammation. Ann Intern Med 1994;121:684–97.
3. Larkin JG, Capell HA, Sturrock RD. Seatone in rheumatoid arthritis: a six-month placebo-controlled study. Ann Rheum Dis 1985;44:199–201.
4. Highton TC, McArthur AW. Pilot study on the effect of New Zealand Green Mussel on rheumatoid arthritis. N Z Med J 1975;81:261–2.
5. Gibson RG, Gibson SL, Conway V, et al. Perna canaliculus in the treatment of arthritis. Practitioner 1980;224:955–60.
6. Audeval B, Bouchacourt P. Etude controle en double aveugle contra placebo de l’extrait de moule Perna canaliculus dans les gonarthrose. Gaz Med Fr 1986;38:111–6.
7. Caughey DE, Grigor RR, Caughey EB, et al. Perna canaliculus in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Eur J Rheumatol Inflamm 1983;6:197–200.
8. Gibson SLM, Gibson RG. The treatment of arthritis with a lipid extract of Perna canaliculus: a randomized trial. Comp Ther Med 1998;6:122–6.
9. Gibson RG, Gibson SL. Green-lipped mussel extract in arthritis. Lancet 1981;1:439 [letter].
10. Whitehouse MW, Marcides TA, Kalafatis N, et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of a lipid fraction (lyprinol) from the NZ green lipped muscle. Inflam Pharmacol 1997:5:237–46.
11. Rainsford KD, Whitehouse MW. Gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) preparation. Arzneimittelforschung 1980;30:2128–32.
12. Brooks PM. Side effects from Seatone. Med J Aust 1980;2:158 [letter].
13. Gibson SLM, Gibson RG. The treatment of arthritis with a lipid extract of Perna canaliculus: a randomized trial. Comp Ther Med 1998;6:122–6.
14. Brooks PM. Side effects from Seatone. Med J Aust 1980;2:158 [letter].
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The information presented in VitaminLore Online is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2006.