Can adding a spice to your diet help lessen joint pain? Yes, if the spice is turmeric. According to a scientific study turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation in joints, lessen pain – even relieve stiffness.
Turmeric’s powerful ingredient is curcurmin. According to research conducted at the University of California at San Diego (UCSD), it’s responsible for boosting the production of our body’s natural cortisone (used in synthetic form to treat stiffness) by the adrenal glands.
According to the federal Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, turmeric has been the go-to ingredient for reducing inflammation for thousands of years. Today, it’s mostly used to flavor and color curries. Most of the spice is imported from India.
How much turmeric should you take if you want to try it out as an arthritis remedy? The UCSD recommends 250 to 500 mg three times per day. It can also be taken in fluid form – from 30 to 90 drops daily. Both forms are usually available at health-food stores.
Although turmeric is generally safe, it can cause indigestion in high doses and is not recommended if gall stones are diagnosed. Ask your doctor if this regimen is right for you.
