As more and more people discover turmeric extract, we’re seeing more and more testimonials from people who experience pain relief after taking it. One of the most common comments is how How turmeric can give relief from arthritis pain they are experiencing. As it became known to us, it just shows how turmeric can help manage the pain of arthritis.
A brief overview of what is turmeric.
Understanding what turmeric is will help you understand how it can help with the pain of arthritis. The turmeric plant is related to the ginger family that grows in India and Indonesia. Curcumin is a key chemical in turmeric. Turmeric can be taken as an extract, a capsule, or a powdered spice. It can also be a fresh root but it is not a typical form of turmeric consumption for most people!
How does turmeric work to relieve pain?
According to the Arthritis Foundation, turmeric is traditionally used in Indian and Chinese Ayurvedic medicine to treat arthritis. Turmeric/curcumin prevents inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Other resources may be said to inhibit both the activity and synthesis of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and other enzymes that are involved in inflammation. Known as a cleansing agent, turmeric is often used as a digestive aid in India. Several studies show that curcumin/turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and modifies immune system responses. An earlier study also found that turmeric extract composed of curcuminoids, which are based on plants that contain powerful antioxidant nutrients, block the inflammatory pathways and prevent the release of a protein that triggers swelling and pain.
Does this mean that turmeric can be use instead of NSAIDs from those who suffer arthritis pain?
While it is always a good idea to seek the advice of a health professional before adding any supplement to your diet, turmeric is considered a natural alternative to NSAIDs. The anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin may help reduce tissue irritation characterized by pain, swelling, redness and heat. Many people take turmeric instead of NSAIDs to allow the body to heal naturally without damaging the stomach, kidneys and liver. However, you should not take turmeric with NSAIDs because both are anticoagulants.
Is turmeric effective in relieving the pain of arthritis?
There are several studies that show how turmeric can help with the pain of arthritis. According to Dr. Weil, a study was a three-month trial including 50 patients diagnosed by X-rays with osteoarthritis of the knee. Half of the participating patients took the turmeric formulation in addition to standard medical treatment; those in the second group continued to follow the recommendations of their doctors.
After 90 days, the researchers discovered a decrease of 58 percent in overall reported pain and stiffness and improved physical functioning between the turmeric group compared to the controls. Furthermore, another scoring method showed a 300 percent improvement in the emotional well-being of patients with turmeric compared to others. Another study found that people using an Ayurvedic formula of herbs and minerals with turmeric, winter cherry, and zinc had less pain and disability. Another study has shown that curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. The clinical study evaluated the safety and efficacy of curcumin alone and in combination with an NSAID (Voltaren) in patients with active RA.
Precautions before taking turmeric for arthritis pain.
No matter what type of pain or inflammation you feel, there are some precautions to keep in mind. If you are taking antihypertensive medications, consult your doctor before adding turmeric to your diet. It can cause gallstones if taken more than 1500 mil a day, so follow the recommended dosage for the turmeric product you use. NSAIDs, warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin and other anticoagulants should not be used with turmeric.
Turmeric is very effective anti-inflammatory. In other studies, it has been found to be potentially as effective, if not more, than many NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). If you’re looking for a natural, all-organic painkiller, consider the USDA certified organic turmeric extract.
