What is Curcumin?
Curcumin is a natural substance, found in the spice turmeric, that has anti-inflammatory effects. Its use has been advocated for cardiovascular health, arthritis, and a host of other conditions.
Turmeric goes by many different names – Indian saffron, turmeric root, or even Curcuma longa It's a plant native to Southeast Asia and for thousands of years, turmeric has been used in culinary arts to create deep, complex flavour profiles and delicious dishes. But turmeric also has a long-standing history in traditional medicine, and modern research is figuring out why.
It all comes down to plant power. Turmeric contains a whole family of plant compounds called curcuminoids. But researchers have linked most of the health benefits of turmeric to one specific curcuminoid – curcumin.* Think of it as the “golden child” of this golden spice.
Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for a number of health conditions, including reduced pain and increased ease of movement in people with osteoarthritis. One study found that taking turmeric extract three times daily was comparable to taking a 1,200-milligram dose of ibuprofen daily. However, more research is necessary to confirm these effects.
Other research suggests that curcumin may reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In addition, it may lessen some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint swelling and morning stiffness. Other areas of investigation include curcumin's effect on Crohn's disease, certain cancers, depression, diabetes, joint pain and irritable bowel syndrome.
When taken by mouth or applied to the skin, turmeric — and the curcumin it contains — appears to be generally safe when limited to less than 8 grams a day. That said, different amounts often are recommended depending on the health condition being addressed, and higher doses have been used for limited periods of time. High doses or long-term use may cause gastrointestinal upset for some people.
We have two products we recommend here at Ballyduff Pharmacy
These are
1. Curminol - contains naturally high Omega 3 EPA with a clinically studied propriety blend of Curcumin C3, Ginger, Boswellia, Undenatured Collagen II, Vitamin C and Vitamin D3. Known to support your Joints, these unique and patented ingredients work synergistically to make Curminol a potent formulation providing fast, maximum effect, naturally. A collection of active natural ingredients with powerful natural anti-inflammatory properties and other ingredients to aid absorption. Learn more about Curminol here
2. Bioglan Active Curcumin Tablets - is a high strength standardised formulation containing 95% curcuminoids, the effective compounds within the plant, for maximum benefit compared to standard Turmeric products. It also contains a trademarked black pepper extract called BioPerine to enhance the absorption of curcumin by the body to help manage inflammation. Learn more about Bioglan Curcumin here