Curcumin (Turmeric Extract)

What the evidence says

Turmeric contains several curcuminoids; curcumin is the most studied. Commercial products range from turmeric powder to concentrated extracts with phospholipids, nanoparticles, or piperine, so both absorption and risk can differ sharply between labels.^[1][4]

For knee osteoarthritis, meta-analyses of randomized trials generally find short-term reductions in pain and modest functional improvement compared with placebo. One review of 10 trials and 783 participants found benefit but substantial differences in preparation and design; a newer network analysis rated much of the evidence low certainty.^[2][3]

These symptom results do not establish cartilage regeneration, disease modification, prevention of joint replacement, or broad anti-inflammatory benefits across diseases. NCCIH concludes that evidence for many promoted uses remains insufficient and notes that highly bioavailable products are not interchangeable with culinary turmeric.^[1][2]

Nausea, reflux, diarrhea, constipation, and rash occur. More importantly, concentrated turmeric or curcumin supplements—especially some enhanced-bioavailability products—have been linked to clinically apparent acute liver injury. Jaundice, dark urine, severe fatigue, or persistent itching warrant immediate discontinuation and medical evaluation.^[4][5]