Chondroitin Sulfate
Also known as: chondroitin, chondroitin sulphate, chondroitin sulfate sodium
A sulfated glycosaminoglycan that is a major structural component of cartilage, where it holds water and resists compression. It is the standard partner to glucosamine in joint formulas, and a Cochrane review found small improvements in joint symptoms versus placebo, with higher-quality trials showing smaller effects. Commercial chondroitin is extracted mostly from bovine trachea, with porcine, avian, and shark-cartilage sources also on the market, and purity varies widely between suppliers.
Research summary
Structural glycosaminoglycan that supports cartilage hydration and may inhibit cartilage-degrading enzymes.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 800 mg | 800–1,200 mg | 1,200 mg | — |
800–1,200 mg/day, in one or divided doses, is the studied range; effects take several weeks. Specify a purity assay (commonly 90% or higher by CPC titration), because low-grade material is frequently diluted or adulterated.
Standardization: ≥90% chondroitin sulfate (CPC titration)
Source material: bovine trachea cartilage (porcine, avian, and shark sources also available)
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Bulky dose; 1,200 mg is two large tablets or three size-00 capsules. Slightly salty and soluble in water.
Formulation notes
Paired with glucosamine and MSM. Bovine sourcing matters for BSE-compliance documentation and for kosher, halal, and vegetarian positioning; shark-derived material would require a fish allergen review.
Sources
Related ingredients
Collagen Peptides (Bovine, Type I/III)
ProteinEnzymatically hydrolyzed collagen from bovine hide or bone, delivering short peptides rich in glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
Typical: 2.5–15 g
Glucosamine Sulfate
OtherAn amino sugar that is a building block of cartilage glycosaminoglycans, sold as the sulfate salt stabilized with potassium or sodium chloride.
Typical: 1,500 mg
Boron (Citrate/Glycinate Complex)
MineralBoron supplied as a blend of citrate, aspartate, and glycinate complexes, the usual form in bone, joint, and men's-hormone formulas.
Typical: 3–10 mg
Glucosamine Hydrochloride
OtherThe hydrochloride salt of glucosamine, which is more concentrated and more stable than the sulfate form and therefore cheaper per milligram of glucosamine.
Typical: 1,500 mg
Manganese Bisglycinate
MineralManganese chelated with glycine, about 15% elemental manganese in commercial grades, used in bone, joint, and antioxidant formulas where manganese serves as a cofactor for enzymes involved in cartilage and bone matrix formation.
Typical: 1–5 mg