Cucumber powder
Also known as: Cucumber, Cucumber powder, Cucumber extract, Cucumis sativus L.
Overview
Cucumber powder is derived from the dried and ground fruit of *Cucumis sativus*, commonly known as cucumber. While widely consumed as a food, its powdered form is emerging as a dietary supplement. It is primarily investigated for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and joint health benefits. Research, though limited, includes some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and preliminary clinical studies, particularly focusing on its effects on osteoarthritis pain, inflammation, and mood. The evidence base is growing, with promising results for joint health, but further validation is needed for other purported benefits. It is important to distinguish *Cucumis sativus* from 'sea cucumber,' which is a marine animal with different properties.
Benefits
The most significant evidence-based benefit of *Cucumis sativus* extract is for joint health, specifically in individuals with moderate knee osteoarthritis. A 6-month randomized controlled trial involving 122 participants demonstrated that 10 mg of aqueous cucumber extract taken twice daily significantly reduced pain, stiffness, and improved physical function, as measured by WOMAC and VAS scores, compared to a glucosamine control group (p < 0.05). This suggests a modest but statistically significant improvement in osteoarthritis symptoms. Preliminary evidence also suggests that *Cucumis sativus* supplementation may improve mood, sleep quality, and reduce anxiety symptoms. However, detailed randomized controlled trial data for these mood-related benefits are limited and require further validation. While some studies on 'sea cucumber' (a different species) show anti-inflammatory effects, these findings are not applicable to *Cucumis sativus*.
How it works
The anti-osteoarthritic effects of *Cucumis sativus* are hypothesized to involve the modulation of inflammatory mediators, such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). These compounds play crucial roles in cartilage degradation and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. While the exact molecular targets are still being elucidated, it is believed that active compounds within cucumber may help to reduce the inflammatory cascade. Additionally, antioxidant compounds present in cucumber may contribute to its beneficial effects by reducing oxidative stress, which is a known contributor to inflammation and tissue damage. Specific data on the absorption and bioavailability of cucumber powder are sparse, but clinical studies suggest that low doses of aqueous extracts are effective.
Side effects
Current research indicates that *Cucumis sativus* powder and extract are generally well-tolerated. A 6-month randomized controlled trial using 10 mg twice daily of cucumber extract in osteoarthritis patients reported no significant adverse effects, suggesting a good safety profile at this dosage. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been extensively documented in the scientific literature for cucumber powder at the doses studied. While general consumption of cucumber as a food is considered safe, the long-term safety and potential side effects of concentrated extracts in larger populations or at higher doses require further comprehensive evaluation. Individuals with known allergies to cucumbers or related plants should exercise caution.
Dosage
For osteoarthritis, the effective dose identified in a randomized controlled trial is 10 mg of aqueous cucumber extract, taken twice daily, for a duration of 6 months. It is important to note that this specific dosage and form (aqueous extract) were used in the primary study demonstrating efficacy. There is currently no established maximum safe dose for *Cucumis sativus* powder or extract due to limited comprehensive data. The timing of administration (e.g., with or without food) and the specific formulation (e.g., pure powder versus standardized extract) may influence its efficacy and absorption, but these factors require further research to establish definitive guidelines. Users should adhere to recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional, especially when considering higher doses or for prolonged use.
FAQs
Is cucumber powder effective for joint pain?
Yes, evidence from a well-conducted randomized controlled trial supports modest pain relief and improved function in moderate knee osteoarthritis with a low-dose aqueous cucumber extract.
Is cucumber powder safe to use?
Current data indicate good tolerability with no significant adverse events reported in clinical studies at the studied dosages. It is generally considered safe.
How long does it take to see effects from cucumber powder?
Improvements in joint pain and function were observed over a 6-month period in the primary clinical study, suggesting a sustained period of use is needed.
Can cucumber powder improve mood or anxiety?
Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits for mood, sleep quality, and anxiety, but more robust randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these effects.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6207263/ – This randomized controlled trial investigated the efficacy of aqueous cucumber extract (10 mg twice daily) in 122 patients with moderate knee osteoarthritis over 6 months. The study found significant reductions in pain, stiffness, and improved physical function compared to a glucosamine control group, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent for osteoarthritis symptoms.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12239509/ – This preliminary clinical study suggests potential benefits of *Cucumis sativus* supplementation on mood, sleep quality, and anxiety symptoms. While promising, the study highlights the need for more detailed randomized controlled trials to validate these findings and establish clear efficacy.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.986986/full – This source discusses the anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects of sea cucumber powder. It is important to note that this research pertains to a marine animal and not *Cucumis sativus* (plant cucumber), thus its findings are not directly relevant to the benefits of cucumber powder derived from the plant.
- http://revistaretos.org/index.php/retos/article/download/112930/82174 – This source, while cited, does not provide specific details or a clear summary relevant to *Cucumis sativus* powder's direct effects or mechanisms in the context of the provided research content. Its relevance to the primary benefits of cucumber powder is not explicitly detailed in the provided text.
Supplements Containing Cucumber powder
Alive! Men's 50+
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Alive! Women's 50+
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Alive! Women's 50+ Gummy Vitamins
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Alive! Women's Gummy Vitamins
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Alive! Men's Multi-Vitamin
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Alive! Prenatal Multi-Vitamin With Plant DHA Strawberry/Lemon Flavored Gummies
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Alive! Multi-Vitamin Adult Gummies
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Sea Cucumber Formula
Omojo
Plant-Based Probiotic
GT Genesis Today
Alive! Max 3 Daily Potency Multivitamin
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