Lee Swanson Research Update

Turmeric Extracts Prevent Rheumatoid Arthritis

September 2005

turmeric

"A crude extract of turmeric profoundly inhibited arthritis in an animal model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), suggesting that this botanical agent may indeed have clinical efficacy in the treatment of RA." That’s the conclusion researchers came to following a recent study.

Turmeric, the ground dried rhizome of the herb Curcuma longa L. has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of inflammation and is increasingly being used in the U.S. for arthritis.

Because of its rising popularity, scientists decided to test the effect of a crude turmeric extract, as well as an essential oil-free, curcuminoid-enriched fraction of turmeric, on arthritis in an animal model of RA. Joint swelling and inflammation were evaluated.

Researchers found that treatment with the crude turmeric extract profoundly inhibited joint swelling, a statistically significant effect that was seen as early as day two and persisted throughout the subsequent course of acute and chronic arthritis.

Treatment with the essential oil-free, curcuminoid-enriched fraction of turmeric, standardized for curcuminoid content, was similarly effective at inhibiting arthritis incidence and severity. Both extracts completely prevented the increase in circulating leukocytes that occurs during inflammation.

In addition, in vivo treatment with curcuminoid extract inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, while stimulating the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Researchers stated, "Curcuminoids, phenolic components that are a major component of this complex botanical mixture, appear to be an important source of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory activity."

The Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine 11(4):743-744, 2005

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