A member of the ginger family, turmeric is a dried powder obtained from the root of the Curcuma longa, a plant cultivated throughout South Asia. Polyphenolic pigments -- or curcuminoids -- are responsible for the plant’s bright yellow color and are thought to be the active ingredients responsible for the plant’s therapeutic and anti-inflammatory properties. Although limited in scope, research has investigated the effectiveness of turmeric in the treatment of inflammation associated with the debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia.
About Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by intermittent periods of diffuse pain and fatigue that inhibit a person’s ability to function on a daily basis. Symptoms of fibromyalgia often include stiffness and pain or tenderness in response to light pressure on the upper torso, arms and legs. Although the cause of fibromyalgia is not clear, some physicians postulate that the condition may be related to the stress response and the body’s perception of pain. Heredity may also be a factor. Although there is no cure for fibromyalgia, doctors can prescribe over-the-counter and prescription drug therapies to help moderate the more severe symptoms. Dietary restrictions and complementary and alternative therapies, such as relaxation techniques, acupuncture and herbal remedies, may also be helpful.
Scientific Evidence
According to the National Institutes of Health, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of turmeric as a treatment for fibromyalgia. Although more studies are needed, limited evidence now suggests turmeric may increase the effect of anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed to cancer patients, according to Dr. Shahar Lev-Ari of the University of Tel Aviv's School of Public Health.
Recommendations
Available in both powder and extract form, turmeric can be found in most nutritional retail stores and health food stores. Although higher doses have been used in clinical trials, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that 300 mg each day is a sufficient dosage to reduce inflammation.
Considerations
As of 2011, turmeric is approved by the Federal Drug Administration for use as a food additive. Although it is considered safe to ingest, turmeric is contraindicated for people with gall bladder disease and may interact with blood-thinning medications. As with all medicines, consult with your pharmacist and primary care physician before self-medicating with any herbal product.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Fibromyalgia; Steven Ehrlich; February 2010
- Medline Plus; Turmeric; May 2011
- Medical News Today; Turmeric Might Be "The Right Spice" To Fight Colon Cancer And Inflamation; March 2011
- Linus Pauling Institute; Circumin; Jane Higdon; November 2005
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Turmeric; August 2011
