According to the findings of an open-label, non-randomized, non-controlled, post-observational trial, Curcuma longa (C. Longa) and Boswellia Serrata (B. Serrata) resin can be used in complement to standard care and is a promising support for the treatment of hand joint pain in patients with hand osteoarthritis. Researchers aimed to determine the effects of C. Longa and B. Serrata food supplements along with standard care on hand pain.

The study was based on 232 patients with hand pain, either with or without deformity of the joint. Participants were prescribed a dietary supplement containing 1.8 µg of vitamin D, 89 mg of C. longa dry extract, and 120 mg of B. serrata resin for a 3-month course of therapy. On 10-point visual analogue scale (VAS), an assessment of pain was done. Additionally noted were adverse effects, the number of painful hand joints, satisfaction of patients, and use of NSAIDs.

Over the course of the three months of treatment, there was a significant reduction in the amount of baseline pain (regression coefficient + standard error [SE]: -0.19 + 0.01) and the number of painful joints (regression coefficient + SE: -0.022 +  0.0029). After 12 weeks, the use of NSAIDs and topical medication use had dramatically decreased by 64% and 79%, respectively. Only 3/239 (1.3% of patients) experienced adverse effects that were possibly product-associated. Overall, 75.5% of patients wanted to continue their treatment, and 80.3% were satisfied with the outcome.

Thus, C. Longa and B. Serrata resin is beneficial for painful musculoskeletal disorders. This study offered valuable information for designing a clinical trial encompassing a broader population.