Tumeric extract use may improve osteoarthritis symptoms

Incorporating curcumin-based turmeric extract into one’s pain relief regimen may benefit osteoarthritis sufferers, according to a study by the American Botanical Council. Tumeric is a plant commonly used for medicinal and cooking purposes, and contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound.

Previous trials have found that turmeric extract can help prevent certain types of cancer and dementia, and in order to determine its effects on arthritis sufferers, a total of 50 patients with the joint disorder were enrolled in a 90-day study. The participants were split into two groups, and either had the extract added to their pain relief regimen or continued their normal treatment plan.

The researchers discovered that the extract group were able to function better physically, and were 58 percent less likely to have joint pain and stiffness. Furthermore, the results showed that 63 percent of those given the plant extract were less likely to treat symptoms with anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers.

“Turmeric has long been known to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and this trial, on this special turmeric extract, is another important step towards validating the curcumin in turmeric as an increasingly popular herbal dietary supplement,” said Mark Blumenthal, founder of the council.

In addition to turmeric extract, patients can also benefit from consuming broccoli to help alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, according to research conducted at the University of East Anglia.