The effect of a multi-herbal product, C. autumnale, W. somnifera, and P. lentiscus, on knee osteoarthritis: a triple-blind randomized clinical trial.

Background and purpose: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide and is characterized by cartilage degeneration, stiffness, and limited mobility. This clinical trial aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a herbal combination of Colchicum autumnale root, Withania somnifera root, and Pistacia lentiscus gum in the relief of knee OA symptoms. Experimental approach: Seventy patients diagnosed with knee OA were randomized to receive the herbal product or a placebo for 6 weeks. Pain and functional outcomes were measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The heel-to-thigh distance parameter was also assessed by measuring the distance between the thigh and heel at maximum knee flexion in the prone position. Findings/Results: Significant improvements were observed in WOMAC scores for pain, stiffness, and physical function in the herbal product group compared to placebo at 3 and 6 weeks. VAS scores confirmed these results and showed lower pain intensity in the herbal product group. Heel-to-thigh distance decreased significantly within all groups during the study. Conclusion and implications: This study provided evidence for the efficacy of the herbal combination in the management of knee OA symptoms and was well tolerated by all patients with no severe adverse effects. The observed benefits emphasized the potential of herbal medicines as a complementary approach in the management of knee OA. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms and optimize the clinical application of this herbal combination.