Natural Ingredient Advancements for Pain & Inflammation Drives Growth

by Eric Munson | December 1, 2024

Pain and inflammation are one of the largest segments in the natural products industry, encompassing multiple health issues, such as joint health and systemic inflammation. Consumers are continuing to seek natural alternatives to NSAIDs (nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs) and other pharmaceuticals due to long-term side effects.

According to Shil Kothari, president of IminoTech (Carson City, NV), joint health, arthritis, osteoarthritis and other mobility-related issues continue to drive demand particularly among other consumers. He added the market is expanding to adults of all ages who are concerned with metabolic balance, weight management and overall wellness.

“Systemic inflammation is increasingly recognized as a driver of chronic conditions including obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” Kothari said. “Growing consumer awareness of the role inflammation plays in metabolic disease is fueling demand for clinically proven natural ingredients that help manage or prevent inflammation-related health issues.”

Dr. Edward Dosz, vice president, science & innovation at NutriScience Innovations (Milford, CT) agrees with Kothari that the current state is rapidly evolving. He added the growth is driven by both consumer demand and advancements in research on bioactive compounds.

“Unlike conventional anti-inflammatories, which offer fast relief, many supplements require longer periods to take effect, especially for joint support and chronic inflammation where products can take months before showing clinical improvement,” Dosz said.

The Current State of the Market

According to Rajat Shah, co-founder of India-based Nutriventia, there are now growing markets for pain inflammation—stress-induced discomfort and post-exercise muscle soreness.

“When someone is experiencing high stress, the muscles tense as a natural reaction. But tense muscles can induce discomfort, especially during and after exercise. Therefore, stress management is trending up in the pain category,” Shah said. “Recovery from exercise is a hot product category. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) often results 24 to 48 hours post intense workout of muscles that have been lax for a while. DOMS is characterized by high inflammation caused by tiny tears in the muscle fiber from acute stress.”

Dosz concurred with Shah that DOMS has become a common problem for many and having a specific solution for this type of pain will appeal and resonate with this consumer segment.

Rajdeep Banerjee, senior manager at India-based ENovate Biolife said the current state of pain and inflammation ingredients reflects a “dynamic and evolving landscape.” He also noted there is a growing awareness of the limitations of pharmaceuticals.

“As a result, the market for joint discomfort and ingredients that support a healthy inflammatory response as raw materials for dietary supplements is experiencing significant growth,” Banerjee said. “This trend in market preference/demand is supported by numerous studies demonstrating the effectiveness of thee natural compounds in reducing discomfort and supporting a healthy inflammatory response.”

Inflammation is recognized as a common factor in a wide range of health conditions and is aligned with a growing shift toward holistic health solutions, Kothari said.

“A caveat to innovation in this product segment is that natural products face regulatory hurdles, as claims related to pain and inflammation are often considered disease claims,” Kothari said. “Brand marketers must carefully position their products to avoid making explicit disease-related claims while still highlighting their natural benefits for inflammation or discomfort relief.”

James Roza, chief scientific officer at Layn Natural Ingredients (Irvine, CA) said he believes it is time to rethink how inflammation is viewed. It is often considered a “transient” condition caused by injury, infection or illness which can be resolved with the use of NSAIDs, but not as a condition of aging.

“Inflammaging is a term that has emerged to describe a low-grade, innocuous inflammation that develops as we age because the body’s ability to clear senescent cells (old cells that stop dividing) diminishes,” Roza said. “These cells can contribute to a low-grade inflammation that with time can have grave consequences if not addressed properly.”

Roza added, “When inflammation occurs, it goes through three stages namely initiation, amplification and finally resolution. Initiation starts with the activation of inflammatory meditators, such as cytokines which then amplify (acute inflammation) to effectively deal with the infection or injury until it is fully resolved so that the body can return to homeostasis. However incomplete resolution of this inflammation can lead to damaged or dead cells that haven’t been cleared and whose persistence prolongs the inflammatory process, which over time can lead to serious health complications.”

Natural Ingredients

IminoTech manufactures Q-actin, scientifically known as ido-BR1, which is derived from cucumber extract. It is an iminosugar, a unique class of carbohydrate where a nitrogen atom replaces the oxygen atom within the sugar ring structure. This structural modification gives iminosugars significant bioactivity such as inhibiting glycosidase enzymes or disrupting viral processes, according to Kothari.

Kothari said cucumbers and cucumber extracts have long been recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties and use in traditional medicine.

“Cucumbers were cultivated in Egypt and India for more than 3,000 years. These cool refreshing members of the Curcurbitaceae family were used to treat sunburn, swelling under the eyes and a host of other health challenges,” Kothari said. “It was modern science that enabled us to identify ido-BR1 as the molecule responsible for these traditional health benefits. The story of Q-actin resonates with consumers, who instinctively understand that cucumbers are enhanced with ant-inflammatory properties.”

According to Banerjee, chaste tree (Vitex negundo) is a traditional botanical found particularly in Asia that has been used for centuries in folk and ayurvedic medicine. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is widely used as a spice and medicinal herb and has a long history in traditional medicine for various issues, such as digestive issues and inflammation. ENovate uses both ingredients in its Muvz ingredient.

“Vitex negundo contains compounds, such as flavonoids and essential oils that exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds can help reduce swelling in joints and muscles,” Banerjee said. “Ginger contains active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, which have potent anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, making ginger effective for supporting a healthy inflammatory response.”

NutriScience’s new ingredient MålTor is a patent pending novel taurine-L-malic acid complex with an ergogenic (improved physical exercise performance) effect. It is designed for both sports performance and active nutrition formulas. The formula is made from a proprietary process that creates readily soluble clusters of taurine and L-malic acid with a synergistic benefit for pain and recovery, according to Dosz.

“DOMS is a common phenomenon experience by people of all skill levels participating in unfamiliar or challenging bouts of exercise,” Dosz said. “Characterized by muscle pain, stiffness and tenderness, DOMS typically manifests 24 to 72 hours post-exercise and results from damage to muscle fibers. This damage triggers an inflammatory response, leading to the sensation of soreness and discomfort. While DOMS is a natural part of the body’s process, enabling muscles to recover and strengthen, it can temporarily impact performance, mobility and the desire to continue to be physically active.”

According to Roza, Sophora japonica is an herb that provides a “treasure trove” of polyphenols, such as quercetin, rutin and kaempferol that have been shown to aid in pain relief and support a healthy inflammatory response. It is the botanical used in Layn’s SophorOx, an ingredient that has been demonstrated in multiple studies to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress.

Natures Crops International (Winston-Salem, NC) is the manufacturer of Ahiflower, a botanical containing high levels of omega-3s, which are widely associated with pain and inflammation management.

“However, what makes Ahiflower unique compared to fish oil, the leading omega-3 ingredient, is that Ahiflower oil has been shown to have significant ‘whole body’ anti-inflammatory activity—in joints, in the gut and in the body’s immune response. Ahiflower supports a healthy anti-inflammatory response as well as or better than fish oil,” said Greg Cumberford, vice president science and regulatory at Natures Crops.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains potent active compounds, curcuminoids and previous research has shown when it is consumed regularly, can act as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, antimutagenic and as an agent for inflammatory response, according to Shah.

Curcumin has several mechanisms of action including suppressing inflammatory market activity, which can negatively impact musculoskeletal function, and slowing degeneration of joint cartilage, Shah said.

“Today, turmeric supplements come in various forms including capsules, gummies and tinctures. Popular supplements are turmeric powder or standardized extracts that guarantee consistent bioactives per serving,” Shah said. “However, most of these products typically require large doses because turmeric is not easily absorbed by the body, and one must consume and overage to obtain enough to provide the action in the body that the research shows.”

Science and Research

According to Banerjee, ENovate decided to combine Vitex negundo leaves with a specific ginger fraction recognized for its joint health benefits and potential to enhance bioavailability. This innovative blend resulted in Muvz, a first-of-its-kind proprietary ingredient. Muvz was the focus of several human studies examining its efficacy for knee and lower back support.

“Based on the findings from these studies, Muvz may support the following clinically tested health claims: relives lower back discomfort; alleviates occasional lower back stiffness; provides rapid, same-day relief from exercise-induced joint discomfort; increased range of motion of joints; enhanced sleep quality and work productivity; and improves overall quality of life,” Banerjee said. According to Cumberford, science continues to show Ahiflower oil provides formulators with an excellent alternative omega ingredient for pain and inflammation.

“Much of the published researched demonstrated how Ahiflower oil naturally suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines while elevating a key anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10), causing an overall anti-inflammatory shift in the body while inducing beneficial changes in the gut microbiome. This is a truly systemic anti-inflammatory effect,” Cumberford said.

Ahiflower’s unique SDA and GLA content is recognized for having powerful anti-inflammatory effects that help people look, feel and move well, according to Cumberford. Dr. Michael Zaugg, a professor at the University of Alberta has done extension research on Ahiflower oil in total parenteral nutrition emulsions compared to fish oil.

“Ahiflower oil elicits in the body a different response compared to fish oil, one with superior anti-inflammatory and protective cell signaling properties. This opens major opportunities in evidence-based nutrition,” Zaugg said.

An initial pilot clinical study on MålTor has been published. It was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover DOMS protocol clinical study conducted on 15 healthy trained individuals with no restriction on diet or exercise. Participants consumed 5 g of MålTor or placebo daily for two weeks with a washout period and then a crossover. A DOMS protocol was followed by 70 repeat extensions after consuming the placebo or active. The results showed a significant improvement in pain threshold as well as a trends toward a smaller reduction in one rep max versus placebo, according to Dosz.

“There is also research on taurine, the major individual component of MålTor with taurine reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and malic acid as an intermediate in the Krebs cycle, enhancing energy production, reducing muscle fatigue and countering lactic acid build up,” Dosz said.

Stratum Nutrition (Carthage, MO) offers two standout pain and inflammation products, NEM eggshell membrane and CurQ+ curcumin.

According to Julianne Gardner, marketing & communications coordinator for Stratum, NEM is rich in bioactive compounds, such as collagen, chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid, which contribute to joint health. CurQ+ is a highly bioavailable form of curcumin, the anti-inflammatory compound in turmeric.

“When combined, NEM and CurQ+ can offer a synergistic approach to supporting joint health. NEM supports joint structure while CurQ+ promotes a healthy inflammatory response, together providing a comprehensive solution for joint health,” Gardner said. “These bioavailable, clinically supported ingredients align with the growing demand for natural alternatives to traditional joint health treatments.”

Nutriventia’s turmeric extract TurmXTRA 60N has been the subject of several diverse studies. It is shown to be effective in one 250 mg dose per day and demonstrated significant reduction in muscle ache intensity within 12 hours post-exercise, compared to other turmeric and curcumin products, according to Shah.

“Based on pharmacokinetic and statistical analysis, TurmXTRA was found to have higher relative absorption and superior relative bioavailability compared to the larger-dose formulation,” Shah said. “The findings validated TurmXTRA’s equivalency in absorption and bioavailability to much higher doses of a conventional branded turmeric extract enhance with piperine.”

For Manufacturers

According to Kothari, Q-actin has a “remarkably low” effective daily serving of 20 mg, making it easy to formulate into a wide range of dietary supplement formats as a single or combination ingredient.

“In short, Q-actin offers anytime, anywhere convenience for consumers looking to maintain or improved their joint function, joint comfort an active lifestyle,” Kothari said.

Banerjee said manufacturers should consider various strategies when formulating with Muvz including targeted formulations, combination products, dosing strategies, emphasizing clinical evidence, sustainability and consumer education.

“By strategically integrating Muvz into various formulations and leveraging its unique properties and clinical backing, manufacturers can create effective and appealing products that meet consumer needs for discomfort and supporting a healthy inflammatory response,” Banerjee said.

According to Roza, SophorOx has a great deal of utility because of its ability to inhibit oxidative stress.

“Oxidative stress is one of the leading causes in the progression of many healthy challenges,” Roza said. “Therefore, whether seeking weight management, cardiovascular health, cognition, stress or blood sugar support, consumers would be well served by adding it to their supplement arsenal.”

According to Cumberford, Ahiflower oil delivers the most comprehensive and compelling omega health benefits than other source and can be used as a standalone, complete or balanced omega 3-6-9. It can also be formulated with other omega sources, such as algal oil to meet certain compositional targets.

“Its superior oxidative stability and sensory characteristics compared to fish or algal oils means Ahiflower can be used in a wide range of pourable liquids, soft gels and capsules, powders, gummies, soft chews, emulsions and beverage formats,” Cumberford said.

MålTor has a clinically efficacious dose of 5 g combined with a tart taste and lack of any off flavors, make it best suited for mixes, sachets and other similar products, according to Dosz. It is also readily soluble and pairs well with fruit flavors.

Shah said pill fatigue is an issue especially as the number of dietary supplements in the market continues to climb. TurmXTRA is a low dose (one-tenth the dosage of standard turmeric extracts) ingredient, making it perfect for gummies or chews.

According to Gardner, NEM is particularly effective in joint health supplements aimed at relieving joint pain and stiffness. Its bioactive compounds make it ideal for joint support, flexibility and recovery. It is also suited for sports recovery products and for older adults wanting to improve joint flexibility and mobility.

CurQ+ is perfect for formulations targeting a healthy inflammatory response, joint support and oxidative stress support. It can also be used in general wellness products for immune health and antioxidant support, according to Gardner.

“Manufacturers can effectively utilize NEM and CurQ+ in various formulations to target joint health. These ingredients can be used separately or together for synergistic benefits, providing versatile solutions for different markets,” Gardner said.

Conclusion

Roza said the pain and inflammation category is predicted to remain strong over the next five years particularly due to an aging population that is seeking natural alternatives to deal with issues that limit mobility and other serious complications.

“Supplement sales for turmeric and ashwagandha will continue to be resilient, but evidence continues to mount regarding the evolving roles polyphenols can play in aiding pain relief and inflammation, [which] will lead to new and exciting innovations.”

Cumberford added, “The fact that every independent research team comparing Ahiflower vs. fish oil (five so far) has found that Ahiflower oil has comparable, or superior anti-inflammatory outcomes is game-changing. It means that people can gain a key benefit long associated with taking fish oil—the sort of ‘anti-inflammaging’ benefits people can readily see and feel—from plant-based, regeneratively farmed Ahiflower oil.” NIE