Curcumin

What is it

Curcumin comes from a compound in Turmeric called curcuminoid. It gives Turmeric its color and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes turmeric powders and extracts useful as dietary supplements.

What it does

Small clinical studies suggest that curcumin from turmeric is helpful for indigestion, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, seasonal allergies and depression.

Curcumin can help treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, although it is not superior to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. There is compelling evidence that curcumin, about 1000 mg a day, can be effective in treating symptoms of pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Many studies have evaluated the effect curcumin has on muscle function, recovery and soreness after exercise. Although some studies result in a benefit, the usefulness of curcumin in this area is still questionable.

Small studies that curcumin has shown short-term beneficial effects on cognition, but longer-term results are mixed.

The use of curcumin for depression may help, however studies show the effects may take up to two to three months.