Turmeric is a common spice used in Indian food. For centuries it has been used in Asian medicine for its several healing benefits on conditions ranging from common cold to chronic conditions such as arthritis. The most active compound of turmeric is curcumin; it is considered to be the wonder botanical of the 21st century for its ability to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Curcumin has been regarded as a potent natural cure for arthritis not only because of its ability to provide relief from pain and swelling in the joints but also because it has no side effects unlike other forms of medication.
Long-term musculoskeletal pain drains energy and contributes to chronic stress, which in turn can lead to metabolic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and even depression.
Curcumin acts as a natural cure for arthritis (that includes both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis) by reducing inflammation, preventing the breakdown of cartilage in joints, and also preventing arthritis from worsening and doing further damage to the body. Research has shown that curcumin can help build new cartilage cells, thereby reversing this degenerative disease.
An Italian research study pointed out how curcumin has reduced the blood levels of CRP, in the participants who were part of the study. CRP is the protein that indicates high levels of inflammation, and is known to contribute to risk for heart attack.
While inhibiting the activity of the inflammation causing enzyme COX-2, curcumin also provides COX-1 protection; COX-1 is the enzyme that protects the lining of the digestive tract and blood vessels. This way, curcumin consumption only benefits the body without causing any negative side effects.
The only disadvantage of curcumin is that it is limited by poor absorption by the body. Curcumin must be made bio-available so that its benefits are available to the body in effectively treating arthritis and other diseases that have their foundation in inflammation.