The health benefits of curcumin, a compound found in the tumeric spice often used in South Asian curries, have been touted for centuries in various parts of the world. However, the advantageous effects of this chemical are only now beginning to enter American consciousness.
On July 16, The Wall Street Journal published an article on two recent studies concerning the anti-inflammatory properties of the chemical, which is known for giving tumeric its vibrant yellow color. Though the research reportedly remains in the preliminary stages, and will need to be further fine-tuned for more conclusive results, the current findings are promising for individuals suffering from joint pain that may be caused by arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
"Curcumin…has been found in two recent studies to benefit arthritis patients at least as much as commonly used anti-inflammatory drugs," the Journal's Laura Johanes writes.
She goes on to note that the use of compound in place of existing anti-inflammatory medication may also help patients avoid the potential risks associated with some of these drugs, such as liver damage, gastrointestinal bleeding, stroke and heart complications.
However, though the studies cited may not be conclusive yet, they are not the first to suggest that increased curcumin intake may help treat joint pain caused by arthritis. In 2009, a study conducted at Konkuk University in Korea revealed that regular oral doses of curcumin slowed the progression of bone erosion and cartilage destruction in the back paws of mice with collagen-induced arthritis.
In light of such positive findings, Johanes reports that curcumin supplements are on the rise in the U.S. market. But, because the nutrient isn't easily absorbed during digestion, many such medicinal aids may not be as beneficial as they seem.
With this issue in mind, the curcumin extract found in Nutrivene Longvida Curcumin is bound to a lipid in order to optimize absorption. For more information on Nutrivene Longvida Curcumin, click here.