Uncontrolled exploratory trials of this standardized dry rose-hip powder showed analgesic action in patients with osteoarthritis. This finding was evidenced by a mean (SD) decrease in the serum concentration of C-reactive protein from 8.25 (4.9) mg/L before treatment to 6.67 (2.6) mg/L after treatment, and inhibition of polymorphonuclear chemotaxis. These findings were sufficient to encourage the present trial.