Eggshell Membrane for Human Joint, Skin & Connective-Tissue Wellness
A yolk-free natural source of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and glycosaminoglycans studied to support mobility, skin, and healthy aging.
Yolk-Free
Collagen · GAGs · HA
What Is Eggshell Membrane?
Eggshell membrane is the thin, naturally occurring layer between the eggshell and the egg white. Yolk-free preparations contain a unique combination of naturally occurring structural proteins and connective-tissue compounds, including collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine-containing compounds, and bioactive peptides. It is included in IRx-ZEUS® for humans to support mobility, structural wellness, skin health, and active lifestyles.
Is Eggshell Membrane a Source of Collagen?
Yes — it is a naturally rich source of structural proteins, including Type I, V, and X collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin and dermatan sulfate, and other GAGs (Jia et al., 2014; Ruff et al., 2009). These compounds are present throughout connective tissues, including joints, tendons, ligaments, skin, cartilage, and the extracellular matrix.
Joint Health & Mobility
The strongest body of evidence for eggshell membrane relates to joint comfort, mobility, and physical function.
- Ruff et al. (2009) reported significant improvements in joint comfort and flexibility following supplementation with a natural eggshell membrane ingredient.
- Additional clinical investigations reported improvements in mobility-related outcomes and physical function in active adults and individuals with age-related joint concerns (Danesch, 2014; Ruff et al., 2018).
Researchers propose these effects may relate to the naturally occurring collagen, GAGs, and structural proteins within eggshell membrane.
Skin Health & Appearance
Because eggshell membrane contains collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and GAGs, researchers have investigated its role in supporting healthy skin. A randomized study by Schauss et al. (2017) reported improvements in skin appearance and wrinkle-related parameters following supplementation, likely reflecting support of the extracellular matrix and connective-tissue structures that contribute to normal skin integrity.
Laboratory and clinical studies have reported effects on biomarkers involved in normal inflammatory balance (Ruff et al., 2009; Jensen et al., 2015). Evidence on allergy-related and wound-healing outcomes remains preliminary. The strongest healthy-aging rationale remains support of mobility, skin wellness, physical function, and connective-tissue resilience.
Safety Profile
Published clinical studies generally report eggshell membrane supplementation to be well tolerated. Because it is derived from eggs, individuals with egg allergies should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.
The ActivPower Perspective
ActivPower includes yolk-free eggshell membrane powder in IRx-ZEUS® for humans as part of comprehensive formulations intended to support healthy movement, structural wellness, skin health, and overall quality of life.
Selected References — Human Literature
- Ruff KJ, Winkler A, Jackson RW, et al. Eggshell membrane: a possible new natural therapeutic for joint and connective tissue disorders. Clin Rheumatol. 2009;28(8):907–914.
- Danesch U. Effects of natural eggshell membrane on joint function in healthy, active adults. Clin Interv Aging. 2014;9:1169–1178.
- Jensen GS, Lenninger M, Ero MP, Benson KF. Support of joint function, range of motion, and quality of life through supplementation with natural eggshell membrane. Clin Interv Aging. 2015;10:931–937.
- Ruff KJ, DeVore DP, Leu MD, Robinson MA. Eggshell membrane supplementation and improvements in joint function. J Med Food. 2018;21(5):473–479.
- Schauss AG, Stenehjem J, Park J, Endres JR, Clewell A. Effects of orally administered eggshell membrane on skin health and appearance. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017;16(2):271–278.
- Jia H, Liu H, Zou D, et al. Biological and regenerative properties of eggshell membrane. J Biomater Appl. 2014;29(4):617–627.
This article is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and summarizes selected scientific literature concerning yolk-free eggshell membrane as a nutritional ingredient in humans. Nothing herein is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any disease, injury, arthritis, inflammatory disorder, or medical condition in humans.
Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Individual responses may vary. Consumers should consult a qualified healthcare professional before introducing any new supplement or nutritional ingredient into a wellness program. No claim beyond the educational discussion of current scientific literature is stated or implied.