Compositions are described including a synergistic combination of hydroxytyrosol and 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid. The hydroxytyrosol may be sourced from an olive extract and the 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid may be sourced from a Boswellia serrata extract. The compositions may be formulated for oral administration to a mammalian or an avian subject. Methods for treating, repairing, or reducing damage to connective tissue caused by one or more inflammatory mediators and for reducing levels of one or more inflammatory mediators in connective tissue are provided, the methods comprising orally administering the compositions to a subject in need thereof.