Is turmeric effective against osteoarthritis?
The benefits of turmeric
This small root of the ginger family, ginger, is found in Indian cuisine and medicine. Its use is mentioned since the 4th century AD in some writings of the subcontinent. The turmeric serves as a basic condiment for curry and is a pillar of Ayurveda. It is indeed an exceptional food that acts both preventively and curatively against many minor ailments.
Turmeric is effective against digestive problems, appetite disorders, nausea and bile dysfunction. This spice could also help prevent cancers, notably those of the digestive system, and avoid the onset of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, turmeric is one of the most effective natural anti-inflammatories.
Also read the Best turmeric for osteoarthritis: our buying guide
Turmeric, an anti-inflammatory
Turmeric, or rather the active compound it contains, curcumin, is a powerful anti-inflammatory, meaning it helps reduce pain caused by inflammation and lessen its severity.
If traditional Asian medicine recognizes the effectiveness of turmeric, it has been used in the West for its dyeing properties (golden yellow) and medicinal properties since the 17th century. The scientific studies show the effectiveness of turmeric in combating inflammation, both in pain treatment and in the targeted reduction of inflammatory sites. Turmeric is beneficial for fighting many types of inflammation, notably of the digestive system (gastritis, colitis), of the skin, of the gums (gingivitis) or of the joints.
Joint inflammation
The inflammation of the joints, also known as rheumatism, arthritis or osteoarthritis, can be due to several factors. A shock or pain after overly intense exertion, chronic diseases (rheumatoid polyarthritis…) or old age. They are extremely common, since one in two French people will suffer from osteoarthritis during their lifetime.
Also read These natural and tasty anti-inflammatory foods
Osteoarthritis corresponds to a wearing away of the cartilage that affects the joints. It is most often related to age. The joints most frequently affected by osteoarthritis are the cervical spine, the lower back and the knees. Joint disorders can be occasional or chronic, and occur in the form of flare-ups. This is the case with osteoarthritis.
There are few treatments that can relieve osteoarthritis. Some patients suffering from osteoarthritis have been given steroid-based treatments with many and serious side effects. The natural remedies for osteoarthritis, such as turmeric, have the advantage of not causing harmful side effects to the body.
Also read the The best dietary supplements for osteoarthritis
How to consume turmeric for osteoarthritis?
Effectiveness of turmeric against osteoarthritis
In scientific studies, turmeric has often been shown to be as effective as certain chemical compounds in the treatment of pain associated with osteoarthritis. A study from 2007 conducted with 55 patients at an Indian university showed that a dose of 2 g of turmeric per day for 6 weeks was as effective as ibuprofen at easing pain.
Other studies show that turmeric can be used as a treatment for osteoarthritis, provided you take curcumin tablets at very regular doses. Indeed, the bioavailability of turmeric is low, which means it is poorly absorbed by the body.
Turmeric dosage for osteoarthritis
If your joint pain is mild, you can consume fresh turmeric, cut into small pieces in your vegetable or meat dishes, soups, or salads. For moderate pain, you can prepare infusions with fresh or dried turmeric (powder) that can temporarily relieve joint pain.
If the pain is more intense, it is preferable to take turmeric in capsules or turmeric extract (curcumin) in medicinal form. In that case, it is best to consult a doctor to determine the dosage and duration of treatment for osteoarthritis. You can also take turmeric powder for severe pain, which is diluted in water, but the doses to ingest are high and the bitterness of turmeric may quickly become tiresome,
It is recommended not to take turmeric-based capsules for more than 8 consecutive weeks to avoid the body developing tolerance and the digestive problems that may occur.
Read also the Discover fresh turmeric: how to use it, how to store it, and the best recipes
What are beneficial combinations with turmeric for osteoarthritis?
It is preferable to consume turmeric together with piperine, which is the active substance found in pepper. You can therefore combine turmeric and pepper in our dishes or in natural remedies. Indeed, piperine promotes the absorption of turmeric by the body. Bromelain also plays this role in turmeric-based treatments. In addition, it is better to take turmeric before or during meals because fat enhances curcumin absorption.
Certain lifestyle changes can also reduce osteoarthritis, alongside turmeric. Indeed, an overly sedentary lifestyle, a diet that is too high in fat, or genetic factors can worsen joint pain. It is therefore advised to cut down on processed foods and meat consumption, which exacerbate inflammation.
Other plants are effective in fighting joint inflammation, and can be consumed in combination with turmeric: for example, harpagophytum (devil’s claw) or nettle. Ginger can also be taken alongside turmeric to enhance its effectiveness. It is best to consult a physician or a naturopath who can advise you on the amounts of these plants to consume to soothe your osteoarthritis.
