Research published in Arthritis & Rheumatism (2006;54[11]:3452–3464) examined whether an extract of turmeric might be beneficial in inflammatory arthritis. Earlier animal studies had shown that turmeric could reduce joint inflammation, inhibit joint destruction, and suppress osteoclast activity (cells involved in bone breakdown).
In this study, researchers evaluated whether a commercially available turmeric preparation could reproduce these effects. Using an animal model of arthritis, they found that a turmeric extract free of essential oils closely matched the composition of common commercial supplements and demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity. The extract reduced joint inflammation and protected against joint damage in the rats.
Although the study was conducted in animals, the researchers estimated a human-equivalent dose. Based on their calculations, this would correspond to approximately 1.5 mg per day of the active fraction derived from turmeric root, representing about 3% of dried turmeric powder.
The authors noted that turmeric appeared to act through mechanisms similar to those targeted by several newer anti-arthritis drugs under development. They also observed that turmeric was most effective in the early stages of inflammation. When administered three days after arthritis induction, it produced beneficial effects; however, it was not effective when given eight days after arthritis induction.
There are many other studies that show the value of turmeric.
