You Won’t Believe The Amazing Benefits of Turmeric for Arthritis

Can Turmeric help with arthritis?

Turmeric is a brilliant yellow spice that grows on a  tall plant with a yellow-orange stem. It is also called Indian saffron. Historically, traditional Indian medical practitioners have used turmeric for healing purposes. Turmeric contains an active ingredient ‘curcumin’. According to research, this active component could be beneficial in many conditions, such as arthritis. So, turmeric isn’t just a spice – it also has many health benefits. Curcumin in turmeric can act as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Grab a cup of tea and let’s discover the benefits of turmeric for arthritis.

Turmeric is native to the monsoon forests of south east Asia. It is a perennial herb to 1m tall with underground rhizomes.

What is turmeric?

Turmeric is extracted from the plant of the same name. It is a part and parcel of kitchens of Asian homes. With a warm and bitter taste, it is used to flavour and colour the foods.  It is used as a powder in curries, butter, cheeses and mustards. It’s bright yellow colour makes it an ingredient of cosmetic products.

7 Amazing Benefits of Turmeric For Arthritis

There are many health benefits of turmeric. All of its health benefits are attributed to its active component curcumin. Here are some of the major health benefits:

1. Curcumin has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help fight off infections. It has been used as a natural food preserver for centuries.
2. Curcumin helps regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Curcumin enhances levels of the brain hormone BDNF. This hormone triggers the growth of new neurons. It can be helpful in various degenerative conditions.
4. It may have a beneficial effect in lowering cholesterol and reducing risk of heart disease.
5. Molecular-level changes caused by turmeric may have a role in the prevention of cancer.
6. Curcumin can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. And it is shown to induce improvements in Alzheimer’s disease.
7. It may help relieve the symptoms of arthritis by reducing chronic inflammation, pain and stiffness.

What are the formulations of turmeric available?

There are many turmeric formulations available. There are great options available with various pharmacies and health stores. Try to find extracts of turmeric rather than root powder. Tablets, capsules, powders and creams are available.

Is turmeric effective for arthritis?

Many studies have confirmed that curcumin in turmeric relieves the symptoms of arthritis. It may reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness associated with arthritis.

Turmeric may assist symptoms of Arthritis.

Are there any risks of turmeric for arthritis?

Turmeric is a safe product if used carefully. It does not cause significant side effects. Following short term side effects can appear if turmeric is consumed excessively:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain

Does it interact with other medications?

Yes, it may interact with some drugs. The most common of these drugs are:

• Omeprazole
• Lansoprazole
• Ranitidine
• Famotidine

It also increases the effect of drugs lowering blood sugar level. Therefore, caution should be taken while using turmeric in combination with medications for diabetes mellitus. Discuss all your medications including natural products with your doctor.

Key Takeaway

Turmeric has traditionally been used to colour, flavour and preserve foods. In addition to that, it may have many health benefits. It may be effective in reducing the symptoms of arthritis. Side effects are very rare. If you’re thinking of taking turmeric for your arthritis have a chat to your GP.