Eggshell Membrane

Natural eggshell membrane · Eggshell membrane hydrolysate

Snapshot

Indications	Contraindications
Knee osteoarthritis pain^{1, 2} Knee joint stiffness¹ Exercise-induced joint discomfort³ Bone health⁴	Egg allergy⁵ Pregnancy or nursing⁵

Eggshell membrane is the thin protein layer between the shell and the egg white, composed mainly of collagen, chondroitin sulfate, dermatan sulfate, and hyaluronic acid. It is taken to supply structural connective tissue components that support joint tissue and temper inflammation^{1, 4}. Uses center on bone health and joint pain; studies reviewed report less pain in joint disorders and, in one pilot study, in osteoporotic patients⁴. The typical patient is an older adult with knee osteoarthritis who wants a non-pharmacological adjunct.

Human research is limited to about nine small trials, mostly in knee osteoarthritis, exercise-related joint discomfort, and skin appearance. A 2026 laboratory study of commercial products found them largely insoluble, resistant to digestion, and without meaningful anti-inflammatory activity in human immune cells⁶. Products are mostly capsules, with tablets and powders also sold, and over a thousand products list eggshell membrane; see Form comparison.

The consequential caution is allergic: the ingredient is egg-derived, and United States product labels warn against use with egg allergy⁵. Some labels also declare fish, milk, shellfish, or soy.

Last updated October 16, 2026. Read how we make monographs.

In the full monograph

31 sources, 21 studies

When to useThe situations practitioners use it for, each with the reason and the study behind it.
SafetyWho should avoid it, who needs extra care, and the side effects reported in studies.
Protocol notesThe doses used in studies, how and when they were taken, and how the forms on the market compare.
How it worksWhat it is and how it works in the body, in plain terms.
Published studiesThe studies behind each use, popular claims checked against them, and trials still under way.
Word of mouthWhat patients and practitioners report online, kept separate from the clinical evidence.
Clinical perspectiveA closing read of where the evidence is solid, where it is thin, and what has not been studied.

Snapshot

In the full monograph

Sources