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to reduce inflammation and other symptoms of arthritis. Clinical trials show that oral shark cartilage supplements taken before meals are effective in over half the patients tested after less than three weeks in some cases. Medical studies have demonstrated shark cartilage's benefits in the treatment of cancer, eye diseases, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, scleroderma, yeast infections and skin diseases. The supplement is not recommended for pregnant women or those with heart disease or liver dysfunction, and large amounts of the powder or capsules can cause gastric upset.
Sharks aren't the only source of cartilage. Bovine trachea cartilage is also receiving attention for its ability to reduce inflammation. This substance is rich in chondroitin sulfate, a natural joint lubricant and anti-inflammatory agent that has been shown to stimulate regeneration of damaged cartilage tissues and improve synovial fluid viscosity. Bovine trachea cartilage and purified chondroitin sulfate supplements are sold for human use, but their most enthusiastic users may be veterinarians, horse owners and people with dogs and cats. Arthritis, knee lameness, bone spurs, painful hocks, swelling and pain have all improved with their use.
Australia's sea cucumber is another friend of arthritics. Sea cucumbers, which are animals, not vegetables, emit defensive toxins that have an anti-inflammatory effect when taken orally. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, sports injuries and related conditions often respond well; in fact, research at the University of Queensland in 1992 found

 
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