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Updated on: September 30, 2026
⏱ 12 min read
The green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) is a mussel from New Zealand. Green-lipped mussel extract with its valuable active ingredients such as glycosaminoglycans, omega-3 fatty acids, minerals and trace elements has positive effects on the joints and can ease joint pain in osteoarthritis (Abshirini et al., 2021).
The green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) is related to the blue mussel, has a strikingly green shell and occurs naturally only in the waters of New Zealand (Coulson et al., 2015). It is highly valued as food by the indigenous people of New Zealand (Maori).
The green-lipped mussel is cultivated on New Zealand farms and exported all over the world. The majority is eaten as a delicacy. Part of the harvest is freeze-dried and processed into green-lipped mussel extracts, capsules, powders or ointments. With its special active ingredients such as antioxidants and fatty acids, it can above all relieve joint complaints.
In New Zealand, the mussel has traditionally been used for aching joints, in humans as well as in animals (Coulson et al., 2015).
Several clinical trials and systematic reviews on its effect in osteoarthritis are now available (Brien et al., 2008).
Today, the green-lipped mussel is widely used as a natural dietary supplement.
➤ Did you know that green-lipped mussels occur naturally only in the waters of New Zealand? Genuine green-lipped mussel products therefore always come from New Zealand.
Its effect is best researched in osteoarthritis, the wear-related joint condition with pain and stiffness. The key findings from human studies:
Studies show that green-lipped mussel extract can reduce pain and stiffness in the joints (Coulson et al., 2012). Its anti-inflammatory effect is thought to come mainly from the fats of the mussel, and it also contains glycosaminoglycans as building blocks for cartilage (Coulson et al., 2015). In the studies, the extract was generally well tolerated (Abshirini et al., 2021).
Glycosaminoglycans are among the most important active ingredients in green-lipped mussel extract. Glycosaminoglycans also occur naturally in cartilage and connective tissue in humans and animals.
Intact articular cartilage, which covers the ends of the bones, is crucial for the functionality of healthy joints. The joint space contains synovial fluid, which has a shock-absorbing effect.
The synovial fluid also supplies the cartilage with nutrients. Both the cartilage and the synovial fluid are influenced by the metabolism. Nutrients are supplied via the bloodstream for the formation of synovial fluid. The glycosaminoglycans it contains are responsible for the viscous consistency of the synovial fluid.
The glycosaminoglycans also bind the water contained in the cartilage tissue and thus promote the cushioning effect. In this way, the glycosaminoglycans support the synovial fluid and ensure the maintenance and regeneration of the cartilage tissue. They also help to build up and strengthen the connective tissue.
With increasing age and due to poor nutrition, the glycosaminoglycan content decreases - the cartilage breaks down, which can ultimately lead to osteoarthritis. A targeted supply of glycosaminoglycans in the form of green-lipped mussel capsules is therefore advisable for musculoskeletal complaints.
Studies show positive effects in osteoarthritis in humans (Abshirini et al., 2021) and in dogs (Rialland et al., 2013). Active people use green-lipped mussel too: in a small trial with 20 untrained men, four weeks of mussel powder helped muscle strength recover faster after a strenuous stepping exercise, and soreness faded sooner (Lomiwes et al., 2023). The glycosaminoglycans are mainly used in joints subject to heavy strain, such as hips, knees and fingers.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids and are very important for the body. This contrasts with omega-6 fatty acids. During inflammatory reactions, an immune defense takes place in the body, whereby the omega-6 fatty acids promote these inflammatory processes.
Omega-3 fatty acids counteract these inflammatory processes. A balanced ratio between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is important for the body to function optimally.
However, today's industrialized diet leads to an excess of omega-6 fatty acids, as too few omega-3-containing foods are consumed. The green-lipped mussel contains a high number of omega-3 fatty acids, which make it possible to increase the content of omega-3 fatty acids and thus counteract inflammatory processes. However, the green-lipped mussel owes its decisive effect to very special omega-3 fatty acids, the lyprinols.
Lyprinol is a lipid extract of the green-lipped mussel that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and acts against inflammation (Mickleborough et al., 2013). In a trial with 60 people with hip or knee osteoarthritis, 53 % of participants had significant pain relief and better joint function after four weeks, and 80 % after eight weeks (Cho et al., 2003).
The lyprinol fatty acids also support and strengthen the effect of the glycosaminoglycans. The combination of lyprinol and glycosaminoglycans makes the green-lipped mussel a particularly effective remedy for inflammation and joint complaints.
In addition, the mussel is also beneficial in the treatment of asthma. Green-lipped mussels can help people with asthma by reducing inflammation in the airways of the lungs. In one study, 20 people with asthma took the lipid extract of the green-lipped mussel (Lyprinol) or a placebo for three weeks and, after a two-week break, the other treatment. With the extract, asthma symptoms improved, inflammatory markers in the breath fell and rescue medication was needed less often (Mickleborough et al., 2013).
When buying, look for quality and gentle processing, so that the delicate omega-3 fatty acids of the mussel are preserved.
The ingredients of the green-lipped mussel are very diverse and have numerous health-promoting effects.
This endogenous substance ensures that the joints move smoothly. However, with increasing age or as a result of certain diseases, this endogenous substance can degrade. The result is a reduction in cartilage mass. The glycosaminoglycans contained in the green-lipped mussel provide building blocks for cartilage and so support the maintenance of cartilage substance.
Clinical studies show an anti-inflammatory effect of lyprinol in osteoarthritis (Cho et al., 2003) and asthma (Mickleborough et al., 2013). In the osteoarthritis trial, no side effects were reported during the eight weeks of treatment (Cho et al., 2003).
The green-lipped mussel contains many valuable trace elements and minerals.
Glucosamine is a substance that occurs naturally in the human body. It is an essential component of the human body. It is used to build up and supply cartilage, joint capsules, tendons and connective tissue. It effectively protects cartilage and joints.
Over time, the body loses the ability to produce glucosamine - the substance responsible for building synovial fluid - itself. In addition, there is a lack of glucosamine in the modern diet. In contrast to the past, cartilage and connective tissue are hardly part of today's diet. This leads to a progressive breakdown of the joints.
The conscious intake of glucosamine can protect worn cartilage in joint diseases (osteoarthritis) and reduce wear and tear. Glucosamine inhibits inflammation and promotes cartilage regeneration. Pain, stiffness and swelling are reduced.
Chondroitin is an essential component of cartilage and ensures that the cartilage can store water. Chondroitin is produced naturally by the body, but over time it loses the ability to produce it itself. However, if chondroitin is deliberately supplied, the water stored in the cartilage provides sufficient cushioning. This improves the mobility of the joints and slows down the loss of cartilage substance.
Antioxidants are substances that play an essential role in protecting cells from oxidative stress, which can occur during inflammation or other diseases. In laboratory studies, proteins and peptides from the green-lipped mussel showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (Coulson et al., 2015).
Green-lipped mussel extract is produced in the Marlborough Sounds, a fjord region in New Zealand. There, the green-lipped mussels are cultivated on ropes hanging vertically in the water.
Before harvesting can begin, the right time must be waited for in order to obtain a high-quality green-lipped mussel concentrate. The mussels are only harvested once they are fully grown.
After harvesting, the shell of the mussel is broken open, the mussel meat removed and immediately deep-frozen. The frozen green-lipped mussel is then crushed and the liquid is removed by freeze-drying without the addition of heat. This is a particularly complex but very gentle production process, which is reflected in the higher price.
Finally, the freeze-dried green-lipped mussel is ground into powder and bottled. It is important to ensure that the fats are not removed from the liquid during extraction. It is precisely these fatty acids that make the green-lipped mussel so special. Nevertheless, this is often exactly what happens and the product is marketed as a cheap mussel concentrate.
Gentle processing preserves the valuable ingredients of the mussel and ensures high quality.
To ensure maximum purity, the seawater is constantly tested for impurities. This means that only harvests that have been awarded a health certificate by the New Zealand Food Safety Authority may be processed.
The dosage and duration of intake of green-lipped mussel capsules is crucial. How much makes sense depends on the product, because whole mussel powders and lipid extracts differ in strength, so the recommended intake on the pack is what counts. In a placebo-controlled trial with adults with knee osteoarthritis, 1,000 mg of green-lipped mussel powder was taken daily for 12 weeks (Kim et al., 2026), and other studies used 3,000 mg of whole mussel extract a day (Coulson et al., 2013). The recommended 6 capsules of Green-Lipped Mussel Plus provide 1,044 mg of mussel extract a day, together with glucosamine and chondroitin. It should be taken regularly and over a period of at least 3 months. In addition, a sufficient amount of water should be drunk with each intake.
In studies, first improvements appeared after four to eight weeks (Cho et al., 2003).
Green-lipped mussel extracts were generally well tolerated in most studies (Abshirini et al., 2021). In people with osteoarthritis who were also taking anti-inflammatory medication, the whole mussel extract even improved digestive complaints (Abshirini et al., 2021).
Green-lipped mussel is not suitable for:
Prescribed painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs should never be stopped or reduced on your own. In the studies, green-lipped mussel was taken in addition to the usual medication (Brien et al., 2008).
The studies were carried out in adults. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, for children and when taking medication regularly, especially blood thinners, discuss the intake beforehand with a complementary medicine practitioner or naturopath.
The green-lipped mussel has also proven to be an effective aid for joint problems in our four-legged friends. It can be used in the form of powder or capsules for all breeds. The recommended dose depends on age, size and weight, and the product should be mixed into the food every day. In a study with 23 dogs with osteoarthritis, a diet enriched with green-lipped mussel improved their gait within 60 days (Rialland et al., 2013).
The right daily amount depends on the species, size and weight of the animal. The feeding recommendation of the product is what counts.
Green-lipped mussel is also fed to horses, and the amount depends on the size of the animal. Simply discuss the dosage with your veterinary practitioner in order to provide your animal with the best possible care.
For osteoarthritis, the evidence is good: a review of nine clinical trials found that green-lipped mussel extracts ease joint pain to a clinically meaningful degree. In a placebo-controlled trial with 100 adults with knee osteoarthritis, 1,000 mg a day for 12 weeks also improved pain and physical function.
In studies, green-lipped mussel was generally well tolerated. People with a shellfish or seafood allergy can react allergically and should avoid it. Anyone taking blood thinners or other regular medication should discuss the intake first with a complementary medicine practitioner or naturopath.
In a trial with people with hip or knee osteoarthritis, 53 % had significant pain relief after four weeks and 80 % after eight weeks. Green-lipped mussel should therefore be taken regularly for at least three months.
The recommended intake on the pack is what counts, because products differ in strength. Studies used 1,000 to 3,000 mg of mussel powder or whole extract a day, and the recommended 6 capsules of Green-Lipped Mussel Plus provide 1,044 mg of extract.
Yes, green-lipped mussel is widely used for dogs with joint problems. In a study with 23 dogs with osteoarthritis, a diet enriched with green-lipped mussel improved their gait within 60 days, and the right amount depends on size and weight.
Brien, S., Prescott, P., Coghlan, B., Bashir, N. & Lewith, G. (2008, March). Systematic review of the nutritional supplement Perna Canaliculus (green-lipped mussel) in the treatment of osteoarthritis. QJM: Monthly Journal of the Association of Physicians, 101(3):167-79. doi: 10.1093/qjmed/hcm108
Coulson, S., Palacios, T. & Vitetta L. (2015). Perna canaliculus (Green-Lipped Mussel): Bioactive Components and Therapeutic Evaluation for Chronic Health Conditions. Progress in Drug Research, 70:91-132. doi: 10.1007/978-3-0348-0927-6_3
Cobb, C. S., Ernst, E. (2006, May). Systematic review of a marine nutriceutical supplement in clinical trials for arthritis: the effectiveness of the New Zealand green-lipped mussel Perna canaliculus. Clinical Rheumatology, 25(3):275-84. doi: 10.1007/s10067-005-0001-8
Cho, S. H., Jung, Y. B., Seong, S. C., Park, H. B., Byun, K. Y., Lee, D. C. (2003, June). Clinical efficacy and safety of Lyprinol, a patented extract from New Zealand green-lipped mussel (Perna Canaliculus) in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip and knee: a multicenter 2-month clinical trial. European Annals of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 35(6):212-6
Mickleborough, T. D., Vaughn, C. L., Shei, R. J., Davis, E. M., & Wilhite, D. P. (2013). Marine lipid fraction PCSO-524 (lyprinol/omega XL) of the New Zealand green lipped mussel attenuates hyperpnea-induced bronchoconstriction in asthma. Respiratory Medicine, 107(8), 1152–1163. doi: 10.1016/j.rmed.2013.04.010
Rialland, P., Bichot, S., Lussier, B., Moreau, M., Beaudry, F., del Castillo, J. R. et al. (2013, January). Effect of a diet enriched with green-lipped mussel on pain behavior and functioning in dogs with clinical osteoarthritis. Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research, 77(1):66-74
Abshirini, M., Coad, J., Wolber, F. M., von Hurst, P., Miller, M. R., Tian, H. S. & Kruger, M. C. (2021). Green-lipped (greenshell™) mussel (Perna canaliculus) extract supplementation in treatment of osteoarthritis: a systematic review. Inflammopharmacology, 29(4):925-938. doi: 10.1007/s10787-021-00801-2
Liu, X., Machado, G. C., Eyles, J. P., Ravi, V. & Hunter, D. J. (2018). Dietary supplements for treating osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 52(3):167-175. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-097333
Coulson, S., Vecchio, P., Gramotnev, H. & Vitetta, L. (2012). Green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) extract efficacy in knee osteoarthritis and improvement in gastrointestinal dysfunction: a pilot study. Inflammopharmacology, 20(2):71-76. doi: 10.1007/s10787-012-0128-6
Coulson, S., Butt, H., Vecchio, P., Gramotnev, H. & Vitetta, L. (2013). Green-lipped mussel extract (Perna canaliculus) and glucosamine sulphate in patients with knee osteoarthritis: therapeutic efficacy and effects on gastrointestinal microbiota profiles. Inflammopharmacology, 21(1):79-90. doi: 10.1007/s10787-012-0146-4
Kim, H. T., Shin, B. J., Lee, Y. W., Park, H. J., Park, S. Y., Hwang, E. H. et al. (2026). Efficacy and safety of green-lipped mussel powder supplementation in adults with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 26(1):236. doi: 10.1186/s12906-026-05465-5
Lomiwes, D., Barnes, M., Shaw, O., Ngametua, N., Sawyer, G., Burr, N. et al. (2023). The Efficacy of New Zealand Greenshell™ Mussel Powder Supplementation in Supporting Muscle Recovery Following Eccentric Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Healthy, Untrained Adult Males. Nutrients, 15(10):2316. doi: 10.3390/nu15102316
Kage, P., Schubert, K., Treudler, R., Simon, J. C., Von Bergen, M. & Tomm, J. (2022). Identification of New Potential Allergens from Green-lipped Mussel (Perna Canaliculus). Iranian Journal of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, 21(6):711-715. doi: 10.18502/ijaai.v21i6.11532
Important Notice
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
The content of the Herbano Health Editorial team is carefully researched and based on current scientific studies.
Content created with the support of artificial intelligence and edited by the Herbano Editorial team.