Turmeric
Curcuma longa
Also known as: Curcumin, Indian Saffron, Haldi
Overview
Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, is one of the most-studied plant anti-inflammatories: PubMed indexes more than 500 randomized human trials, over 100 of them measuring inflammatory markers such as CRP and IL-6. The results are mixed, and the overall certainty of that evidence is rated low. Curcumin also doesn't work the way NSAIDs do. Instead of blocking the COX enzymes directly, it appears to damp the NF-kB signaling that switches COX-2 and other inflammatory genes on. In knee osteoarthritis, where the head-to-head data is strongest, short trials of concentrated turmeric extracts reported pain relief comparable to ibuprofen and fewer stomach complaints, though overall side-effect rates were similar, the trials were of moderate quality, and not all have been positive. It is not a proven substitute for any prescribed medication. Two things worth knowing: those results come from standardized extracts at supplement doses, not turmeric used as a cooking spice (curcumin on its own is poorly absorbed), and turmeric supplements have been linked in rare cases to serious liver injury. Check with your clinician before starting one.
Proposed mechanism
Curcumin inhibits NF-kB transcription factor, COX-2, and LOX enzymes. Downregulates TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-6. In laboratory and animal studies, curcumin also reduces tau protein aggregation, a mechanism of interest for TBI-related neurodegeneration. This has not yet been confirmed in human trials of TBI patients.
Mechanisms describe how researchers think a compound may act, often from laboratory work — a proposed mechanism is not proof of a clinical effect in people.
Traditional & studied uses
Related pathways
Pathway tags are a research aid for browsing the glossary — they are not a claim that this ingredient treats any condition.