And a recent analysis of research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food on turmeric extracts concluded that eight to 12 weeks of treatment with standardized turmeric extracts can reduce pain due to arthritis, compared with placebo.
If you take a daily dose of turmeric that is rich in the extract curcumin consecutively, you'll notice a difference in a reduction of inflammation in 4-8 weeks.
The Arthritis Foundation recommends 400 to 600 milligrams (mg) of turmeric capsules, three times per day, or half to three grams of the root powder per day for inflammation relief.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been used for 4,000 years to treat a variety of conditions. Studies show that turmeric may help fight infections and some cancers, reduce inflammation, and treat digestive problems.
In two recent studies Turmeric was found to be more effective than Ibuprofen for post surgical pain and swelling and delayed muscle soreness, both were dosed between 1,500-5,000 mg per day. How Does Turmeric Work? Turmeric inhibits a protein and enzyme in the body that promote inflammation.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids , which are abundant in fatty fish such as cod, are among the most potent anti-inflammatory supplements.
Turmeric should be taken with meals to help with absorption. It's also a good idea to divide it into two doses taken 8 to 12 hours apart. This will help increase absorption and keep levels steady in the body. Dividing the dose may also help reduce possible side effects.
The most effective way to take turmeric is with a liquid, such as in liquid shot form or even blended within a drink or smoothie.
According to a study published in the Nutrition Journal, it is thought that turmeric has a half-life (the time it takes the body to eliminate half of a drug) of 6-7 hours.
Turmeric usually doesn't cause serious side effects. Some people can experience mild side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea. These side effects are more common at higher doses. When applied to the skin: Turmeric is likely safe.
The only genuinely official advice is to take your curcumin within three hours before or after your meal. Some studies have also implied that taking curcumin in the evening makes it slightly more difficult for some individuals to sleep. However, this effect is not universal and will vary from person to person.
Eat With Good Fats
So, by eating the turmeric with good fats, like avocado, olive oil or coconut oil, you're more likely to absorb more of it into your bloodstream. This is also why turmeric is commonly mixed with warm milk—any kind of milk including coconut, cow, almond.
We also know that turmeric, and especially its active constituent curcumin, are poorly absorbed by the body. The reason for this is that curcumin dissolves in fat, rather than in water, and as the digestive system is a rather watery environment, most of it just ends up being excreted by the body.
With turmeric powder, you are going to have to consume more of it in order to get the same amount of curcumin. This means that if you are looking for purely health benefits, it is best to simply take the supplements. They are far more concentrated, and get you the curcumin you need without the bloat.
Avoid using turmeric together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting. This includes angelica (dong quai), capsicum, clove, dandelion, danshen, evening primrose, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, saw palmetto, and willow.
Anti-inflammatory golden milk is your bedtime go-to
Initial mice studies have found that turmeric can protect against oxidative damage and sleep deprivation. Slip this super spice into your bedtime ritual to relax, improve mood, help depression , and potentially lower your anxiety levels (as seen in mice).
Don't take turmeric supplements if:
You're taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil , Motrin ), or Acetaminophen (Tylenol ). Turmeric may lessen the effects of these medications.
There are no long-term studies to show whether it's safe to take turmeric supplements every day. Studies suggest it is safe at small doses, but be aware that high doses or long-term use may cause GI issues in some people. Turmeric may also interfere with certain medications and health conditions.
To reduce inflammation fast, limit your intake of sugar and processed foods. Perhaps, more importantly, though, pursue exercise, stress-reducing behaviors, a good night's sleep, and a diet full of colorful, anti-inflammatory foods.
What is the strongest anti-inflammatory medication? Research shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available.
Black pepper is not necessary for turmeric to be effective, but it can be helpful. Black pepper contains a compound, piperine, which inhibits the metabolic breakdown of turmeric compounds in the gut and the liver.
HEAT. Many spices are transformed by heat. Their compounds can become altered or activated by this process, and it can be the key to releasing their best effect. Research has found that exposing turmeric and curcumin to heat can increase its solubility in water.
The Turmeric Takeaway
Studies suggest 500–2,000 mg of turmeric per day has potential benefits. Turmeric in extract form performs best.