A recent pilot study indicated that Aquamin™, Marigot’s natural multi-mineral ingredient, may allow partial withdrawal of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for sufferers of osteoarthritis of the knee. The double blind, placebo controlled study investigated the impact of Aquamin on range of motion (ROM), six minute walking distance (6MWD) and pain and joint mobility measured by the WOMAC osteoarthritis index. Although there are no significant differences in WOMAC scores, the data reveal significant improvements in passive and active extension ROM and 6MWD in the Aquamin group compared to the placebo group, suggesting a potential treatment effect for Aquamin.

NSAIDs are commonly used as pain relief for osteoarthritis, but are often accompanied by adverse side effects, including gastrointestinal distress, ulcer formation and cardiovascular problems. This study was conducted over 14 weeks during which subjects received either Aquamin (2400mg/day) or placebo. NSAID use was reduced to 50 per cent at two weeks and eliminated completely at four weeks. The results show that placebo and Aquamin treatments were significantly different after one month of treatment, which included two weeks with NSAID dose at 50 per cent. The Aquamin group demonstrated higher adjusted mean values for ROM for passive and active extension (173° vs. 168°; p=0.028) as well as a greater six minute walking distance (1408 feet vs. 1295 feet; p=0.03). These results indicate Aquamin has the potential to help manage osteoarthritis symptoms when NSAID use is reduced to 50 per cent.

David O’Leary, commercial manager at Marigot, commented: “NSAIDs are a daily necessity for many osteoarthritis sufferers to control pain and allow them to carry out their everyday activities. These preliminary results are another feather in the cap for Aquamin, which has been the subject of a number of positive recent studies in the area of joint health and inflammation. We’re continuing to invest in research to build up a picture of the scope of benefits Aquamin has to offer.”

Aquamin is a natural, multi mineral ingredient derived from the red seaweed Lithothamnion Corallioides. Rich in calcium, magnesium and 74 other trace minerals, Aquamin can be used in a wide variety of food, beverage and dietary supplement applications. All products in the Aquamin range are 100 per cent natural and suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Aquamin is available in the United States from GTC Nutrition.

Representatives from Marigot will be available at on stand 943 at Vitafoods 2009 to discuss the health benefits of Aquamin and offer applications advice.

Marigot Ltd specialises in the development and production of natural mineral products for use in foods, nutraceuticals, dietary supplements and cosmetics. Using calcified seaweed as its primary raw material source, the company produces the Aquamin™ range of products. Aquamin is a unique, natural, seaweed-derived mineral source, rich in marine calcium and marine magnesium, as well as a range of other natural marine extracts.