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Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables
An avocado+soybean oil extract with meta-analysis evidence for reducing KNEE osteoarthritis symptoms (not hip) via anti-inflammatory, chondroprotective effects.
What the evidence says
ASU doesn't have enough studies with structured effect-size data yet to pool a verdict. Browse the studies below for individual findings.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 1997–2025 with a typical study size of 5,980 participants.
Based on 24 studies · 6 meta-analyses · 10 RCTs · 5,980 total participants
Confidence
High confidenceWhat the studies found
By outcome
Meta-analyses show a modest, consistent benefit for knee osteoarthritis pain and function, but the effect is small, of unclear clinical importance, and absent for hip OA.
11 randomised trials
every one checked individually
Every randomised or controlled trial of ASU indexed in PubMed, not a hand-picked subset. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews are deliberately excluded from this count: most of them cover many compounds at once, so counting them would inflate it.
PubMed · as of Jul 2026
2 trials ongoing or recruiting · 11 completed on ClinicalTrials.gov
Registered trials show research momentum for ASU, not proof of effect — a registration is a plan, and posted results are sponsor-reported, not peer-reviewed. They are never counted toward the evidence rating above.
Browse these trials on ClinicalTrials.govClinicalTrials.gov · as of Oct 2026
Avocado-soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) is a standardized extract of the unsaponifiable fractions of avocado and soybean oils (commonly 1:2).
Meta-analyses support a modest but consistent benefit for symptomatic KNEE osteoarthritis — reduced pain, improved function, and lower NSAID use — though the evidence does NOT support a benefit for hip OA.
It acts by reducing cartilage-degrading enzymes (MMPs) and inflammatory mediators while supporting collagen synthesis (chondroprotective). It's a slow-acting symptomatic agent taken over months.
Reduces matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and inflammatory cytokines that degrade cartilage.
Supports collagen and proteoglycan synthesis in cartilage.
How ASU works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
Limited data — use only if advised.
No significant documented drug interactions. This possible interaction has not been individually evaluated for this supplement; its likelihood and severity are unknown. If you take an anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicine, ask a pharmacist or prescriber before using this product. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines based on this notice.
Tip: Take with food
ASU has an evidence score of 5.5/10 — moderate evidence based on 24 indexed studies, including 3 meta-analyses. An avocado+soybean oil extract with meta-analysis evidence for reducing KNEE osteoarthritis symptoms (not hip) via anti-inflammatory, chondroprotective effects. Representative study: PMID 31328413.
The commonly studied dose of ASU is 300mg ASU daily (standardized avocado:soybean unsaponifiables) (no cited trial states the dose it used, the cited papers are reviews and meta-analyses). Individual needs vary, so check the right dose for you with a healthcare provider.
The best time to take ASU is with meals. Take it with food. Taken with food; slow-acting — give 2-3 months.
ASU is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. Reported side effects include mild GI upset. How often they occur is not established for all of them. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Soy/avocado allergy; Pregnancy/breastfeeding (limited data).
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Aged Garlic Extract
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Boswellia
Probably helpsPotent anti-inflammatory resin extract with strong evidence for joint pain, arthritis, and inflammatory conditions.
Andrographis
Likely helpsStudied for comfort and symptom duration during upper-respiratory infections when taken at onset — also supports liver health.
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Reviewed by Dr. Baher Al Hakim · Last reviewed June 2026 · evidence from 24 studies · how we score · editorial policy
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
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