Arthritis & Turmeric

Turmeric root, a relative of ginger, is ground into a bright yellow powder used in curry and other dishes. Yellow pigments, curcumin and related compounds, in turmeric possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Arthritis encompasses disorders inflaming the joints, causing pain and loss of function. Under the supervision of your doctor, supplementing with extracts of curcumin or regularly adding turmeric to your diet may improve symptoms of arthritis.

About Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of conditions that lead to pain and swelling in the joints. Arthritis can be caused by aging or injury eroding the joints, in the case of osteoarthritis, or by inappropriate immune response in the joints, in the case of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to treatments your doctor recommends such as medication or joint surgery, proper diet, lifestyle changes and dietary supplements may offer synergy for relief.

Research on Curcumin

Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, may aid in the relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Among many actions, curcumin has been shown to inhibit the COX-2 enzyme and cytokines associated with the inflammatory response.

Supplementing with Curcumin

In addition to using turmeric more commonly in cooking, supplements containing an extract of turmeric provide a convenient source for dietary intake. The recommended dose for arthritis relief is 400 to 600 mg three to four times a day. Curcumin is fat-soluble and is better absorbed with a meal or snack containing fat or oil.

Cooking with Turmeric

Many may be unfamiliar with using turmeric in cooking as it is used mainly in Asian and Indian dishes. Turmeric tastes earthy, slightly bitter and spicy with a mustardy smell. In addition to use in curry dishes, turmeric can add depth and complexity to many sauces and soups.

Caution

Turmeric and curcumin in surplus or normal dietary consumption will likely interact with other anti-inflammatory drugs or other medications. Consult with your doctor before adding turmeric and curcumin to part of your arthritis treatment plan.