Curcumin Benefits for Heart Health, Arthritis, Digestion and More

Many of curcumin’s health benefits are related to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin is the main bioactive constituent of turmeric, which is derived from the plant Curcuma longa.

Like turmeric, curcumin exhibits many beneficial properties. It is a natural antioxidant and also has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and cardioprotective characteristics.

Curcumin is one of three curcuminoids contained in the rhizomes of C. longa. The remaining two curcuminoids – bisdemethoxycurcumin and demethoxycurcumin – are derived from curcumin.

Curcumin benefits are said to improve conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, digestive disorders, and liver and gallbladder conditions. This supplement is also used as a natural remedy for colds, headaches, respiratory infections, fever and cancer.

Some of these uses are backed by clinical research results while others are based on historical medicine traditions and may not be validated by scientific research.

Curcumin

Anti-Inflammatory

Joints

Health

Anti- Aging

How It Works:

• Effective anti-inflammatory supplement
• Shown to improve joint functionality
• Anti-oxidant to supper general health

Dosage:

Between 1 - 3 g per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Overview of Curcumin Supplements

Curcumin supplements are widely available, but their benefits can be limited because of low oral bioavailability.

This means that only a small percentage of the ingredient consumed is able to survive the digestive tract and be absorbed by the body.

Curcumin derivatives, like demethoxycurcumin, may be more readily absorbed by the body and exhibit improved efficacy.

However, studies indicate that combining curcumin with black pepper or black pepper extract (piperine) can improve the bioavailability. Some supplements include black pepper extract for this reason.

Turmeric has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to alleviate depression, ease the effects of stress, treat infections and improve skin health. In addition, turmeric has been a staple of Indian cuisine and is one of the main ingredients in curry powder.

When used properly, curcumin supplements are generally well tolerated.

Curcumin Benefits: Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

Many of curcumin’s uses relate to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Research indicates that oxidative stress may play a role in chronic inflammation. While short-term (acute) inflammation is part of a healthy immune response, sustained or chronic inflammation is detrimental to one’s health.

Chronic inflammation is now linked to a number of diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, some dermatological disorders and inflammatory bowel syndrome, to name a few.

Curcumin has been observed to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. It seems to reduce the amount of some enzymes involved in the inflammatory process.

Along with its anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin is a natural antioxidant. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals – negatively charged molecules that can damage DNA and compromise cell health. Prolonged free radical damage can contribute to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

Curcumin and Cardiovascular Health

Curcumin is sometimes used for cardiovascular conditions and to support cardiovascular health.

Animal and laboratory tests indicate that curcumin exhibits anti-platelet properties, meaning it helps prevent blood platelets from clumping together. In addition, this supplement was observed to lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol in animal studies and seemed to prevent cholesterol buildup on the arteries.

Researchers hypothesized that these characteristics may allow curcumin to help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque in the arteries). However, a high-quality clinical trial found that 4 g of curcumin per day did not improve cholesterol levels in humans. [2]

Benefits of Curcumin for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is an umbrella term used to refer to more than 100 conditions characterized by joint pain. There are multiple causes of arthritis and treatment options vary considerably.

However, inflammation plays a role in nearly every form of arthritis. Curcumin is used for many types of arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the synovium in synovial joints. The synovium produces synovial fluid and acts as a membrane to contain both the fluid and cartilage contained in the joint.

When the synovium is attacked by the immune system, synovial fluid distribution is compromised. This can cause pain and compromise the health of the joints because synovial fluid is important for lubricating joints and nourishing cartilage.

RA is a complicated disease because it is caused by the immune system itself. However, individuals who suffer from RA also experience inflammation, which is one of the reasons curcumin is used by those who suffer from the disease.

Individuals suffering from osteoarthritis – characterized by the breakdown of cartilage between the bones – have reported that curcumin can help reduce knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. In one study, curcumin was found to be as effective as ibuprofen in alleviating knee pain. [2]

Additional Curcumin Uses

Turmeric and curcumin are used for a wide range of health goals. Scientific evidence varies considerably between uses.

According to the Natural Medicines database, turmeric and curcumin extract supplements are used for:

• dyspepsia (indigestion), gas, water retention, bloating, nausea, and poor appetite;
• constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and diarrhea;
• gallbladder conditions, kidney problems, jaundice, and hepatitis;
• lung infections, bronchitis, asthma, and allergies;
• leprosy, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease;
• headaches, fever, menstrual dysfunction;
• acne, rashes, eczema, psoriasis;
• parasitic infections, bruising, leech bites, mouth sores, and eye infections.

The German Commission E, the regulatory organization that oversees the prescription of herbals in Germany, has approved the use of turmeric for digestive upset. In addition, in a recent study participants reported fewer symptoms of dyspepsia (indigestion), gas and bloating after taking turmeric.

Curcumin benefits may also reduce abdominal pain and this supplement is purported to help with symptoms of Leaky Gut Syndrome.

Safety of Curcumin

Both turmeric and curcumin are generally well tolerated. Natural Medicines rates turmeric and curcumin as “Likely Safe” when used orally and appropriately. Mild side effects, including digestive upset, bloating and diarrhea, have been reported.

Turmeric and curcumin may interact with or exacerbate some pre-existing medical conditions, including hormone-sensitive cancers, type II diabetes, heart disease, liver disease and kidney disease. Also, curcumin may interact with a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications.

While curcumin does posses a number of health benefits, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking this supplement to ensure it is safe for you.

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