Glucosamine is a naturally occurring amino sugar and a key component of glycosaminoglycans, essential for maintaining healthy cartilage and supporting joint function. It aids in cartilage repair and synthesis, helping to relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis such as joint pain and stiffness, and is available in forms like glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and N-acetyl glucosamine. First studied in the 1960s and 1970s for its potential in degenerative joint diseases, glucosamine was found to promote cartilage repair and reduce osteoarthritis symptoms, leading to its widespread use as a safe and effective nutraceutical. Over time, it has become globally recognized for supporting musculoskeletal health, often combined with chondroitin sulfate to enhance joint protection and manage age-related cartilage degeneration.
