We use essential cookies (authentication, your saved goals/stack) by default. With your permission we'll also enable privacy-respecting analytics (Vercel Web Analytics, anonymous load-time metrics) and error-replay diagnostics (Sentry — DOM snapshots only when an error fires) so we can fix bugs faster. Learn more about cookies
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
Most ASU studies are mechanism or observational rather than RCTs that measure a clinical effect — keep findings provisional.
Most evidence is from medium-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2003–2024.
Based on 5 studies · 3 meta-analyses
Confidence
HighBy outcome
ASU has an evidence score of 5.5/10 — moderate evidence based on 5 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). Individual needs vary — start at the lower end of the range and adjust based on how you respond.
See full supplement plans that include ASU.
Explore: Best supplements for Body HealthBest supplements for Vitality & Longevity
Last reviewed June 2026 · evidence from 5 studies · how we score
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.
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.
300mg ASU daily (standardized avocado:soybean unsaponifiables)
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized ASU (300mg) | Recommended |
| 💊Piascledine | Alternative |
Knee OA is the supported use.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: With food; slow-acting.
Dose-response data unavailable. The current published research for ASU does not provide sufficient dose-specific outcome data to generate reliable dose-response curves.
Refer to the Dosage & Timing section above for recommended dose ranges based on available evidence.
Eases knee osteoarthritis pain and stiffness.
Improves joint function and lowers NSAID use.
Does not significantly help hip osteoarthritis.
Limited data — use only if advised.
No significant documented drug interactions.
Tip: Take with food
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. The most commonly reported side effects are mild GI upset. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Soy/avocado allergy; Pregnancy/breastfeeding (limited data).
Potent anti-inflammatory resin extract with strong evidence for joint pain, arthritis, and inflammatory conditions.
Tap node to isolate • Pinch to zoom • Tap edge for research