Natural remedy for osteoarthritis

FOR generations, Channa Striatus (CS) also known as “haruan fish” has been considered a health food among Asians. CS is a fresh water fish with a distinct snakehead feature. It belongs to the Channidae species and is commonly consumed by women after birth to promote wound healing and reduce post-operative pain.

Noted as a valuable source of protein throughout the Asia Pacific region, CS is also used as a natural remedy in traditional medicine. The high nutrition value of CS has led many researchers and lecturers to conduct a detailed examination and analysis of the fish. These studies have provided clinical data and evidence on the nutritional value and benefits of consuming Channa Striatus for improved human health.

JOINT DISEASE Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that involves the structural and functional failure of synovial joints. The disease is the leading cause of chronic disability in the elderly, particularly in the knee and hip areas. While the exact biochemical cause of OA remains unclear, there is evidence that the condition may be tied to regulations of various mediators. The condition, which is due to progressive articular destruction, appears to be localised within the particular affected joint.

Studying the impact of treatments of OA on the knee, during trials were found to be challenging due to the fact that there were no specific biomarkers, to monitor or predict the illness, or to use in clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of treatment. Clinical trials dealing with knee OA have typically included two main features - a composite scoring system for pain and function and joint space measurement. A pain radiograph (x-ray) is insufficient to determine the progression and outcome of intervention or treatment over a short period of time, the reason this study used the composite scoring system.

Results of the study suggested that CS extract is associated with significant improvements in knee OA symptoms, such as pain and quality of life. The beneficial effect of CS extract on OA joints include: Its wound-healing properties. The high content of amino acids and fatty acids in CS extract helped in remodeling of collagen via the synthesis of inter and intra molecular protein linking. Strengthening articular cartilage, thus reducing the fragmentation of degrading articular cartilage in the joint cavity, reducing pain in the joint. The study concludes that the oral administration of CS extract is a new alternative for knee OA treatment, as it is safe and associated with a statistically significant reduction in pain, improvement of symptoms and quality of life in patients with primary knee OA.

Preparation for Chantiva extract includes having the whole Channa Striatus fish cleaned, weighed and placed into an autoclave bin. Based on the weight of the fish, water is added. Preservatives are included and sterilisation is carried out for 15 minutes. Upon completion, the contents are mixed thoroughly, then dried using an industrial oven for 48 hours consecutively.

Chantiva Tablet Haruan SS Plus is available in selected pharmacies or clinics. Each box contains 60 tablets. For more information,