With so many of our patients having inflammation underlying their current health issue (such as colitis, arthritis, thyroiditis, etc) it is fantastic to have a new remedy that is already seeing greatly improved results in the clinic! Curcumin is the active component of the rhizome of Turmeric (Curcuma longa). The absorption of total curcuminoids formulated with phosphatidylcholine (phospholipid) is up to 29-times higher than that of standard curcuminoids. This number (the relative absorption) depends on the dosage. For example, at a dosage of 2 tablets per day of curcumin phospholipid complex, the relative absorption was 27.2 times higher than that of unformulated curcuminoids. Curcumin has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity and down-regulates numerous inflammatory mediators.
- Clinically trialled for the symptomatic relief of arthritis and to provide temporary relief of arthritic pain.
- Clinically trialled to increase joint mobility associated with arthritis and reduce joint swelling and inflammation associated with arthritis.
- May assist in the management of osteoarthritis, providing symptomatic relief and temporary relief of the pain.
- Turmeric has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine to treat liver disorders, poor digestion, inflammation, arthritis, fevers, menstrual problems and skin disorders.
Despite Turmeric and curcumin having low toxicity, caution is advised (due to the increased bioavailability) for the use of curcumin phospholipid complex in pregnancy, women wishing to conceive and patients taking prescribed medications, such as those with a narrow therapeutic window and/or antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs. Monitoring is advised for patients taking anti-inflammatory drugs, as reduced dosage of the drug may be possible. Contraindicated in obstruction of the biliary tract and caution is advised in gallstones.
Dr. Weil believes adding ginger and turmeric to your diet can help decrease inflammation in the body. Research is still ongoing into these powerful anti-inflammatory agents and their long-term health benefits.