Lee Swanson Research Update

Turmeric Appears to Block Rheumatoid Arthritis

March 2007

Increasing physical activity, losing excess weight and participating in self-management education classes have been shown to reduce pain, improve functional limitations and mental health and reduce disability among persons with arthritis, according to The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

That's valuable information. However, researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered another possibility that may help in the fight against rheumatoid arthritis-turmeric.

Seeking to test theories about turmeric's antiarthritic power, researchers developed a turmeric extract, resembling extracts available in dietary supplements, that could be administered to arthritic female mice. Efficacy of the turmeric treatment in preventing joint swelling and destruction was determined clinically, histologically and by measurement of bone density.

Researchers found that the extract, which contained curcumin, a polyphenol present in turmeric, appeared to be effective at blocking rheumatoid arthritis in rats by preventing the NF-KappaB protein from being activated in the joints, an incidence associated with increased inflammation. The extract also blocked a pathway associated with bone loss, indicating there may be a benefit for osteoporosis. Scientists called for further studies.

Arthritis & Rheumatism 54(11):3452-3464, 2006

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