By addressing the root causes of joint degeneration—such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone resorption—natural polyphenol-based solutions provide a more comprehensive approach than conventional symptom-focused treatments. Whether for dogs, cats, or horses, incorporating botanical ingredients like pomegranate, mango leaf, and epimedium into their diets can help enhance mobility and support overall well-being as they age.
Chief Scientific Officer
Layn Natural Ingredients – USA
With 52% of dogs and 41% of cats experiencing joint pain, and 36% of dog owners and 28% of cat owners purchasing joint health supplements, often based on veterinarian advice, the market for pet joint health supplements is rapidly expanding. The compounds contained in TruGro® CARE Joint Health from Layn Natural Ingredients have been shown to help maintain oxidative balance, a key factor in supporting joint health.
Many products designed to promote joint integrity are formulated to provide symptomatic relief by improving the range of motion or reducing discomfort. While these products work to improve the well-being of pet companions, they contribute little to resolving many of the underlying causes that lead to joint dysfunction. Causes such as inflammation, bone resorption, and cartilage loss are all contributory factors that manifest into a loss of strength, motion, and quality of life. Harnessing the power of polyphenols to improve joint integrity has been demonstrated in numerous studies to slow the progress of bone loss and inhibit the destructive nature of oxidative stress and its effects on cartilage and strength.
Pomegranate, mango leaf, and Epimedium are three botanicals that offer a rich treasure trove of polyphenols, and when combined, they synergistically work to address the underlying causes of joint impairment by inhibiting inflammation and protecting bone, cartilage, and muscle. The protection that polyphenols provide to plants as a basic part of their physiology can also be applied to pet companions so that, as they age, the typical signs of aging that result in a loss of motion can be mitigated.
• Epimedium is the source of a flavonoid named icariin. Icariin has been studied extensively to reduce bone resorption and promote osteoclast production to protect against bone loss. Icariin exerts anabolic effects in bone through the activation of estrogen receptors, as researched in both animal and human studies.
• Punicalagin, a phenolic compound in pomegranate, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These reactive molecules have a damaging effect on healthy cells, tissues, and organs. Punicalagins have been shown to help both acute and chronic inflammation through signaling pathways associated with autophagy, a process by which the body regulates inflammatory responses.
• Mango leaf is the source of a bioactive called mangiferin, which is another powerful antioxidant shown to reduce oxidative stress by protecting the mitochondria and inhibiting metabolic processes that lead to inflammation. Mangiferin also increases levels of innate cellular antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione. Together, these three compounds form a triumvirate that provides defense against debilitating conditions that can lead to joint dysfunction because they all can keep oxidative stress in check. Oxidative stress, or the body’s inability to neutralize free radicals and maintain balance, is at the root of causes that threaten joint health.
All these ingredients are offered by Layn Natural Ingredients as part of a much broader portfolio of standardized herbs for pet and human health. As a manufacturer-direct, vertically integrated company, Layn has been servicing the health and wellness industry for over two decades. Through its use of green technology using sustainably sourced biomass, Layn continues its research in polyphenols to develop new innovations for use in pet and animal nutrition.
EXPANDING JOINT HEALTH SOLUTIONS TO INCLUDE HORSES
While the primary focus of joint health supplements has traditionally been on dogs and cats, horses also face significant joint health challenges that require attention. Horses, particularly those involved in sports and performance, are highly susceptible to joint degeneration and stress-related injuries due to their size, activity levels, and the repetitive impact on their joints.
Joint health in horses is a critical aspect of maintaining their overall well-being, especially as they age. Horses commonly suffer from osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint diseases (DJD), particularly in their knees, hocks, and fetlocks. These conditions can significantly impair a horse’s mobility, performance, and quality of life.
In addition to the benefits seen in smaller animals, the polyphenol-rich ingredients in TruGro® CARE Joint Health also hold promise for supporting joint health in horses. For instance, the antioxidant properties of pomegranate and mango leaf can help reduce oxidative stress in horses, which is a key factor in preserving joint integrity. Similarly, Epimedium’s icariin plays a vital role in supporting bone density and cartilage, which is particularly beneficial for horses subjected to the high physical demands of racing, jumping, or dressage.
Horses benefit from proactive joint care, and supplementing their diets with botanical polyphenols can be an effective strategy for preserving proper joint function. Whether for competitive performance horses or aging equine companions, the inclusion of natural joint support ingredients offers a holistic approach to preserving mobility and reducing discomfort.
CONCLUSION: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO JOINT HEALTH ACROSS SPECIES
The growing market for joint health supplements reflects an increasing awareness among pet owners of the importance of proactive care in managing joint issues. By addressing the root causes of joint degeneration—such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone resorption—natural polyphenol-based solutions provide a more comprehensive approach than conventional symptom-focused treatments. Whether for dogs, cats, or horses, incorporating botanical ingredients like pomegranate, mango leaf, and epimedium into their diets can help enhance mobility and support overall well-being as they age.
Layn Natural Ingredients continues to lead the way in delivering scientifically-backed, sustainable solutions that prioritize both the health of animals and the environment. Through ongoing research and innovation, these polyphenol-rich ingredients provide an effective, natural pathway to better joint health, ensuring that pets and horses alike can enjoy active lives for years to come.
About James Roza
James Roza is Chief Science Advisor at Layn Natural Ingredients – USA. For over 30 years he has driven and directed research, product development and quality assurance for leading nutraceutical manufacturers, and has been instrumental in establishing standards in the natural products industry.
