Native Type II Collagen for Articular Cartilage Support

Just 40 mg/day of Bioiberica's native (undenatured) type II collagen—Collavant n2—could help support articular cartilage in healthy individuals experiencing activity-related joint discomfort. New clinical evidence presents the results of six months of Collavant n2 supplementation (40 mg/day) on urinary CTX-II concentration in healthy individuals who had all reported joint discomfort during exercise. Researchers saw a significant improvement in a sub-population with higher levels of discomfort (VAS score during movement > 40 mm): Participants taking Collavant n2 experienced an 18.3% reduction in CTX-II levels, while those in the placebo group showed a 20.6% increase.

“This is the first-ever time we have shown this effect of native type II collagen in healthy people," said Daniel Martínez-Puig, one of the lead scientists of the study and Head of R&D Human and Animal Health at Bioiberica. "Previously, we demonstrated that Collavant n2 supported faster recovery and functionality in active individuals. Now, we have evidence of its effects at the cartilage level through the reduction of CTX-II, a byproduct of type II collagen degradation, considered one of the most tested and validated biochemical markers of cartilage degradation.”

Fish Oil for Long-term Wellness

A study published in Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids (PLEFA) is providing additional support for the health benefits associated with fish oil use. The review, which makes a case for omega-3 as part of a science-based approach to lifelong health, analyzed 34 UK Biobank studies and more than 60 health endpoints and cross-referenced self-reported fish oil use with biomarker-based analyses to confirm:

• Of the 60+ examined associations between fish oil use and health outcomes, 44 were significantly favorable, while just one was adverse
• Using objective omega-3 blood biomarkers, analyses found 11 significant positive health associations and no harmful ones
• Cumulative evidence links higher omega-3 status (achieved through diet or supplementation) with lower risks of cardiovascular, inflammatory, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases

“This review helps clarify that fish oil isn’t the liability some headlines have painted it to be,” said Dr. Bill Harris, President of the Fatty Acid Research Institute. “With strong biomarker-backed data showing consistent cardiometabolic and neurological associations—and minimal adverse signals—there’s real reason to consider omega-3 status as a foundational piece of long-term wellness.”

Turmeric for Skin Hydration and Appearance

A small daily dose of Nutriventia's TurmXTRA glow can help improve skin health/beauty from within, according to a new clinical trial. Led by Ayurvedic physician and Medial Affairs Specialist Shefali Thanawala and published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study consisted of:

• 96 healthy adult females between the ages of 18 to 40, randomly assigned to receive either TurmXTRA glow (250 mg) or a placebo daily for two months
• Skin hydration levels were assessed using MoistureMeterSC
• Trans-epidermal water loss was measured using VapoMeter
• Facial gloss and blemish reduction were evaluated using Antera imaging and Skin GlossMeter tools

Results of the peer-reviewed research showed:

• Improved Facial Skin Hydration: Participants taking TurmXTRA glow demonstrated significant improvement in facial hydration levels compared to the placebo group.
• Enhanced Skin Glow: Participants from TurmXTRA glow group reported increased facial gloss and an overall enhanced glow, as measured by advanced imaging tools such as the Skin GlossMeter.
• Reduction in Blemishes and Dark Spots: TurmXTRA glow showed statistically significant reductions in facial blemish spots and dark spot appearance compared to baseline and also as compared to placebo.
• Even Skin Tone: Participants from the test group experienced more even skin tone and softer, smoother skin texture by the end of the study.
• Reduced Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL): Positive changes were observed in TEWL measurements, indicating improved skin barrier function and resilience.

The findings also demonstrated that a once-daily 250-mg dose of TurmXTRA glow produced noticeable improvements in multiple facial skin attributes, including reduction in blemishes, enhanced skin radiance, and improved hydration. “Turmeric has always been a hero in the story of skin health, but with TurmXTRA glow, we’ve given it a scientific and clinically validated voice," shared Nutriventia's co-founder, Rajat Shah. "This study is an affirmation of our belief that modern delivery technologies can unlock ancient wisdom in new ways. The clinically proven benefits in hydration, glow, and even tone—delivered through a low 250 mg daily dose—redefine what’s possible for turmeric in beauty-from-within."

Probiotics for Reduced Fever and Discomfort in Kids

A probiotic combination can reduce symptom duration in children with upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) with pharyngitis of diverse viral origin, according to results of a new clinical study. The study stands out for being one of the few pediatric probiotic studies that verified which viruses caused the symptoms, and used both clinical and molecular confirmation, thereby ensuring high reliability and diagnostic robustness. Pediatric participants had URIs diagnosed by pediatricians using clear clinical criteria (pharyngitis accompanied by fever), and causative agents were determined by PCR analysis of nasopharyngeal swabs.

In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trail, the efficacy of the AB21 probiotic was evaluated during an ongoing viral infection. 75 children aged 6 months to 5 years with clinically diagnosed viral URIs received Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP -033, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP -022, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP -023 and Pediococcus acidilactici KABP -021  or placebo twice daily for 15 days. Results showed that probiotic intervention with the AB21 blend shortened the duration of fever by 1.1 days, a 40% reduction, and pain/discomfort by 0.7 days, a 19% reduction, compared to placebo.

“URIs in children are a significant global health concern,” said Jordi Espadaler, Director of Innovation at AB-BIOTICS. “Due to their developing immune systems, children under 5 years old are a high-risk group, with more cases and serious or fatal outcomes reported yearly than for any other age group. This study expands the evidence that AB21 can positively impact viral respiratory infections through its unique mechanism of action, activating the immune system via its effect on immunity cells, as well as enhancing the gut barrier function, and reducing local inflammation. Together, the local and systemic effects of AB21 help to accelerate viral clearance, speeding recovery and promoting protection from future infections.”

French Maritime Pine Tree for Lipedema Symptoms

Pycnogenol, a natural plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, significantly reduced the body fat and low self-esteem symptoms associated with lipedema in a clinical study published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science. Affecting roughly 400 million women across the world, lipedema is known to cause abnormal and painful buildup of fat, typically in the legs, hips and buttocks areas. For the study, researchers evaluated 100 women between the ages of 18 and 40 for quality of life, body composition and symptom severity at the beginning, middle and conclusion of the study. Symptom severity was assessed using the validated QuASiL scale with the evaluation including sensitivity, bruising, pressure, burning, cramps, heavy legs, swelling and itchiness.

Key findings from the study:

• 29% reduction in symptoms by day 60 among women taking Pycnogenol, while symptoms in the placebo group continued to worsen.
• Pycnogenol provided significant relief across all reported symptoms, with important improvements seen in the most common problems of lipedema: swelling of the legs, heavy legs, tenderness and bruising.
• Participants experienced an 8% reduction in body fat compared to the placebo group over just 60 days of Pycnogenol supplementation.
• Women taking Pycnogenol reported an improvement in satisfaction with leg appearance, as well as quality of life.
• No adverse effects reported, supporting Pycnogenol’s strong safety profile as a natural, non-invasive management option.

“The lack of validated, accessible treatment options for women with lipedema often leaves them searching for alternatives that can meaningfully improve daily comfort and mobility,” says renowned natural physician and author, Dr. Fred Pescatore. “What makes these findings important is that Pycnogenol demonstrated measurable improvements in symptoms including pain and tenderness relief, body composition and emotional well-being. Patients with lipedema now have a safe, natural option that may help fill a long-standing treatment gap.”

Bioflavonoids for Joint and Cartilage Support

Plant-based joint-care ingredient, Univestin + AmLexin, under its ArthroLexin brand name, has potential to manage symptoms and address the root cause of osteoarthritis. Human and preclinical studies show Univestin and AmLexin feature proprietary bioflavinoids derived from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis and heartwood of Acacia catechu working together to create a unique formulation for joint and cartilage support, healthy aging and overall joint health. Research also shows the solution can improve mobility and reduce pain in individuals with osteoarthritis—better than ibuprofen—but also tackle the root cause of the symptoms: cartilage degradation.

“Unigen is a leading natural product research institute,” explained Dr. Qi Jia, Chief Scientific Officer Unigen. “We have introduced two generations of joint care ingredients separately as Univestin and AmLexin from mechanism-of-action-based screening through our PhytoLogix library of medicinal plants. Univestin is the first generation of joint care ingredients patented by Unigen targeting fast and long-lasting symptom relief. AmLexin is a symptom modifying natural active protecting cartilage from wear and tear and slowing down the catabolic process.”

Licorice Root Extract for GI Symptoms

A preclinical investigation completed in October of 2025 examining the impact of Natural Remedies' GutGuard on GLP-1 support has led to the scheduling of a new human clinical study for January 2026. The flavonoid-rich, deglycyrrhizinated extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice root), has already been evaluated in six human clinical trials for functional dyspepsia and related upper GI symptoms, including indigestion, occasional heartburn, abdominal discomfort and bloating. Five previously completed preclinical studies have shown support for upper GI comfort, healthy stomach environment, and normal inflammatory response to all daily digestive health issues. The new clinical research will set out to determine if GutGard’s observed microbiome-related effects translate into measurable GLP-1 outcomes in humans.

“As we close out the year, digestive health remains a priority for individuals navigating holiday stress and dietary changes,” said Suresh Lakshmikanthan, Ph.D., Chief Business Officer at Natural Remedies. “GutGard’s existing six clinical studies provides a validated foundation on daily digestive health, and our new study is designed to expand our understanding into the GLP-1 support mechanisms, which has become central to discussions around metabolic wellness.”

Improved NAD+ Levels, Mitochondrial Health & Physical Performance

A peer-reviewed, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial is highlighting how NXT USA’s BluNADBooster improves key biomarkers of mitochondrial health, energy metabolism, inflammation, cognition, physical performance, and quality of life scores. The study compared BluNADBooster to NAD+ precursor benchmark ingredient, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and a combination of both ingredients. Results analyzed responses from 140 healthy aging adults who were given either: a placebo, 500 mg nicotinamide ribosome (NR), 1,000 mg BluNADBooster, or a combination of 500 mg BluNADBooster + 500 mg NR.

Published in the Journal of Functional Foods, researchers concluded:

• BluNADBooster delivered superior NAD+ support and mitochondrial function, increasing blood NAD+ levels by 26.48% and outperforming NR, which showed a 22.69% increase
• The combination of BluNADBooster with NR produced the largest rise of 31.76%
• Age-related elevation in CD38 is a major driver of NAD+ depletion, and BluNADBooster was a natural CD38 inhibitor, lowering enzymatic activity by 17.98%
• BluNADDBooster delivered metabolic and inflammatory benefits, cognitive support and healthy aging outcomes
• Participants reported improvements in cognitive performance according to MMSE-2 measurements
• BluNADBooster contributed to improved physical endurance and energy, with the combination group showing a 9.94% increase in six-minute walk test distance
• Health-related quality of life scores were significantly greater in all groups after 60 days, with the combination of BluNADBooster and NR having showing the strongest improvements in energy/fatigue, daily living, bodily pain, emotional well-being, social functioning, and general health

”The market has been waiting for an NAD+ solution that goes beyond precursors alone,” shared Eric Anderson, Managing Director at NXT USA and CEO of Blue Helix Health. “BluNADBooster represents a next-generation approach-one that strengthens the body’s ability to generate and maintain healthy NAD+ to decline with age. This study confirms what we’ve believed for years: polyphenols matter, and they work in ways synthetic precursors cannot.”

Support for Younger Looking Skin

Clinical research published in the Journal of Dermatology and Cosmetology is emphasizing Eternalyoung’s ability to help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and support youthful, radiant, and even-toned skin. Conducted at the Centro Medico Complutense in Spain, the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, assessed the skin barrier function of two sets of participants; ones who had received a daily capsule of 225 mg of Eternalyoung and others who were given a placebo over the course of three months. 

The skin barrier function of 71 women, between the ages of 33 and 66, all with visible signs of skin aging, were studied to determine the positive effects of Eternalyoung on multiple key areas of skin aging. Eternalyoung users showed:

• Enhanced skin glow, less dark spots, better skin moisturization, and a 23% reduction in forehead wrinkle volume at 12 weeks
• Visible improvements as early as week 4 and more noticeably by week 12
• Significant reduction in the number of forehead wrinkles
• Over 80% of volunteers showed improvements while the placebo group remained largely unchanged
• Better skin moisture retention, especially among those who joined the clinical trial with higher levels of trans-epidermal water loss

“This study indicates that daily supplementation with Eternalyoung is associated with notable and clinically observed improvements in the key aspects of skin aging,” reported Nuria Caturla, Ph.D., Chief R&D Officer for Monteloeder. “We witnessed its ability to help improve the appearance of smoother skin, more even tone, enhanced radiance and moisturization, especially in subgroups with a compromised skin barrier. These findings further support the anti-aging efficacy of the formulation building on existing evidence.”

K9 Skin Health & Coat Quality

PhytoGaia has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with an acclaimed Contract Research Organization (CRO) and veterinary researcher in Malaysia to conduct a controlled eight-week clinical study evaluating the effects of oral supplementation of its branded natural palm fruit extract made of tocotrienols, alpha-tocopherol, plant-derived squalene and phytosterols, PetGaia, on skin and coat health in dogs. With previous preclinical and human research providing a strong scientific foundation for the use of tocotrienols and squalene in skin and hair support:

• In rodents, dietary tocotrienols protect skin from oxidative stress and promote hair follicle regeneration .
• In humans, oral tocotrienol supplementation improves hair count and scalp health in randomized studies
• as well as significantly reduces reactions such as erythema, edema, itching, and blistering compared to areas treated with a simple vehicle or vitamin A.
• Reviews indicate that tocotrienols and squalene may work synergistically to support skin health , skin barrier function, reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative damage.

Researchers will set out to evaluate key parameters including: skin redness, dryness, itchiness, lesion formation, in addition to coat shine, softness, shedding and smoothness. The intention behind the research investment is to provide actionable, science-backed insights to industry partners, veterinarians, pet health professionals, formulators, brands, and manufacturers looking for guidance towards the development of clean, innovative evidence-based pet supplements promoting healthy skin and improved coat quality for companion animals. 

“This 8-week controlled study is designed to generate robust, evidence-based data on PetGaia’s skin effects in dogs. Working with a renowned CRO ensures the trial is scientifically rigorous, producing insights that formulators and manufacturers can confidently use in product development and claim substantiation,” said Dr. Ariati Aris, Scientific Affairs Specialist at PhytoGaia.

Read more research news here.