What is Glucosamine?
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage – the tough tissue that cushions joints. Usually, glucosamine is obtained by complete hydrolysis of Chitin with a strong mineral acid at a high temperature. Hydrolysis of Chitin by concentrated hydrochloric acid produces Glucosamine Hydrochloride. Glucosamine, especially glucosamine sulfate, is extracted from the shells of shellfish to make dietary supplements. A synthetic form is made in laboratories, also.
Glucosamine is normally consumed in different forms, including:
• Glucosamine sulfate
• Glucosamine hydrochloride
• N-acetyl-glucosamine
Glucosamine, an amino sugar from shell chitin, is often incorporated in dietary supplements for stimulation of the joints’ function and repair. Glucosamine, an amino sugar derived from shell Chitin, is commonly found in dietary supplements to stimulate joint function and healing. Glucosamine, an amino sugar with various applications in medicine, nutritional supplements, food, and beverages, was generated in high yield by a co-solvent-promoted, acid-catalyzed transformation of Chitin.
Glucosamine is marketed over-the-counter as a treatment for osteoarthritis inflammation and its accompanying pain. It is found as sulfate salt and often in combination with the polysaccharide chondroitin. Glucosamine is used by the body to make other compounds that develop tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the fluid that surrounds joints. Joints are cushioned by the fluid and cartilage around them. Taking Glucosamine might increase the cartilage and fluid around joints as well as help prevent their breakdown.