Turmeric, a spice commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine, contains a bioactive component called curcumin that has anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of various diseases such as arthritis and heart disease.
Curcumin, the bioactive compound found in turmeric, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and has been studied for its potential to help relieve inflammation. Some of these studies have found that curcumin can inhibit the activity of certain enzymes and cytokines that are involved in inflammation. Some human studies have also suggested that curcumin may help to reduce inflammation in various conditions, such as osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
By reducing the levels of inflammatory molecules, curcumin may help to reduce the severity and duration of inflammation. More research is needed to establish the effectiveness and safety of curcumin for these purposes.
It is important to note that the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin may be limited due to its poor bioavailability, meaning that only a small amount of the ingested curcumin is absorbed into the bloodstream and reaches its target sites. Supplement manufacturers have developed various curcumin formulations which are vastly superior to culinary turmeric, these include some which contain black pepper extract (BioPerine®) that aim to improve its bioavailability.
Turmeric supplements, typically in the form of curcuminoids, can provide a concentrated dose of curcumin for those looking to supplement their diet with its potential health benefits. Research is in it's early stages to help fully understand the effectiveness and safety of turmeric supplements, and to determine the optimal dose and method of supplementation. As with any dietary supplement, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting use.
Related Supplements
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- Genuine Indian Turmeric
- Guaranteed 475mg of curcuminoids, the active compound
- For bone, cartilage and immune health*
- With black pepper extract for better absorption
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.