The present invention relates to a composition containing an Alpinia oxyphylla extract as an active ingredient for prevention, alleviation, or treatment of osteoarthritis. Specifically, an Alpinia oxyphylla Fructus extract of the present invention reduces the expression of IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and COX-2, which are inflammation factors, also reduces the expression of MMP-9, which is a cartilage degeneration inducing factor, and restores cartilage injury, and thus can be favorably used as a health functional food for prevention or alleviation of osteoarthritis or a therapeutic agent for osteoarthritis.