Tumeric (which contains Curcumin) reduces pain, inflammation and stiffness related to rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
What Is Tumeric and Curcumin?
Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It is commonly used in Asian food. The root of turmeric is also used widely for varying medicinal purposes. Turmeric contains a yellow-colored chemical called curcumin which is often used as a natural coloring agent in foods and cosmetics in addition to it’s anti-inflammatory benefits.
What Does It Do?
The curcumin in turmeric blocks inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). COX-2 is an exzyme that produces prostaglandins which promote inflammation, pain, and fever. In addition, a tablespoon of ground turmeric offers 29 calories, nearly a gram of protein, 2 grams of fiber and 6 grams of carbohydrates. It also contains minerals such as manganese, phosphorus and potassium.
Does It Work?
Numerous studies have demonstrated that turmeric/curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and modifies immune system responses. A clinical trial in 2010 found that a turmeric supplement provided long-term improvement in pain and function in 100 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. In a small 2012 study, a curcumin product reduced joint pain and swelling in patients with active RA better than the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac.
Usage:
There are many ways you can introduce turmeric or curcumin into your diet. Curcumin has poor bioavailability, which means it’s poorly absorbed. It needs to be taken in concentrated form or in relatively large doses to be effective.
Curcumin Supplements
Curcumin supplements and capsules are the most efficient way to introduce curcumin into your diet. Many supplements also have extra ingredients such as piperine (black pepper) to enhance absorption. A recommended dosage is 500 milligrams twice a day. As always, talk to your doctor before taking any herb or supplement. It’s possible for curcumin supplements to interact with medications (see the Precautions below).
Turmeric as a Spice
Turmeric powder is great in in curries, smoothies, or salads, but the amount may not be enough for any therapeutic effect, as turmeric is only 2 to 9 percent curcumin.
Turmeric Tea
You can buy turmeric tea or make your own. To make your own turmeric tea boil 2 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes and add lemon, honey, or milk to taste.
Precautions:
High doses of turmeric can act as a blood thinner and cause stomach upset. Avoid turmeric/curcumin if you take blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin), are about to have surgery, are pregnant or have gallbladder disease.
Curcumin may also interact with prescription drugs. This can make your medication less effective and impact your health if you have certain conditions. Check with your doctor before taking curcumin supplements or if you take medicine for diabetes, inflammation, cholesterol or blood thinners.
| Before using a particular alternative healing method or natural remedy it is always best to consult your doctor. |
