| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Fat No effect | NoneNo effect | 269 people | ||||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 949 people | |||
| Body Mass Index (BMI) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 902 people | ||||
| Hip Circumference | Improves (the measure goes down) | 105 people | ||||
| Waist circumference | Improves (the measure goes down) | 419 people | ||||
| Waist-Hip Ratio | Improves (the measure goes up) | 117 people |
Supplement
Curcumin is the yellow pigment in turmeric, and in the body it works as an antioxidant and calms inflammatory signaling. People most often look at it for oral mucositis, the painful mouth inflammation that can follow cancer treatment, and the evidence is strong: mucositis symptoms improved in pooled trials. That finding rests on only two studies and about 272 people, though, so the picture is still fairly narrow.
Sources: PMID 40242451
- Updated
- How we grade
- 100 studies cited
- Best evidence
- Grade A
- Conditions studied
- 61
- Outcomes
- 502
- Graded outcomes
- 2102514
Evidence by condition
- Strong
- Moderate
- Limited
- Very limited
Cardiovascular Disease
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Liver Enzymes: changes; see studies
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
Bone Health
- Blood glucose: improves
- Body Mass Index (BMI): improves
- Bone Mineral Density: improves
Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
Age Associated Memory Impairment And Cognitive Decline Aamcd
- Cognition: improves
- Executive Function: improves
- Processing Speed: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cognition Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes up) | Small effect | 2 studies | 255 people | ||
| Executive Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 402 people | ||||
| Processing Speed | Improves (the measure goes up) | 420 people | ||||
| Working Memory | Improves (the measure goes up) | 344 people | ||||
Age-Associated Memory Impairment and Cognitive Decline (AAMCD)
- Cognition: improves
- Executive Function: improves
- Processing Speed: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cognition Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes up) | Small effect | 2 studies | 255 people | ||
| Executive Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 402 people | ||||
| Processing Speed | Improves (the measure goes up) | 420 people | ||||
| Working Memory | Improves (the measure goes up) | 344 people | ||||
Type 2 Diabetes
- Adiponectin: improves
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
Metabolic Syndrome
- Adiponectin: improves
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
Muscle Recovery
- Creatine Kinase: improves
- Interleukin 6: improves
- Muscle Soreness: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creatine Kinase Small Decrease | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 1 study | 349 people | ||
Studies that measured creatine kinase | ||||||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 349 people | |||
| Muscle Soreness | Improves (the measure goes down) | 349 people | ||||
| Range of Motion | Improves (the measure goes up) | 349 people | ||||
Osteoarthritis (OA)
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP): improves
- Bilirubin
- Pain: improves
Hyperuricemia
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 18 studies | 102 people | ||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 102 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 102 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 102 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 102 people | |||
| Uric Acid | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 141 people | |||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 102 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 102 people |
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 18 studies | 48 people | ||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 48 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 48 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 48 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 48 people | |||
| Uric Acid | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 48 people | |||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 48 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 48 people | ||||
| Kidney Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 48 people |
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 18 studies | 40 people | ||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 40 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 40 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 40 people | |||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 40 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 40 people | ||||
| vLDL-C | Improves (the measure goes down) | 40 people |
High Blood Pressure
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 18 studies | 80 people | ||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 80 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 80 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 80 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 80 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 80 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 80 people | |||
| Liver Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 80 people | |||
| Cortisol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people |
Prediabetes
- Blood glucose: improves
- Total cholesterol: improves
- Fructosamine: changes; see studies
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 18 studies | 81 people | ||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 81 people | |||
| Fructosamine | Changes; see studies | 1 study | 81 people | |||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 81 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 81 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 81 people | ||||
| Lymphocyte Count | Improves (the measure goes up) | 81 people | ||||
| Monocyte Count | Improves (the measure goes up) | 81 people | ||||
| Neutrophil Count | Improves (the measure goes up) | 81 people | ||||
| White Blood Cell Count | Improves (the measure goes up) | 81 people |
Ulcerative Colitis
- Inflammation: improves
- Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inflammation Moderate Decrease | Improves (the measure goes down) | Moderate effect | 3 studies | 89 people | ||
| Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 89 people |
Diabetic Nephropathy
- Blood Pressure: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Total cholesterol: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood Pressure Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 2 studies | 40 people | ||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 40 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 40 people | |||
| Inflammation | Improves (the measure goes down) | 3 studies | 40 people | |||
| Kidney Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 40 people |
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- Blood Pressure: improves
- Inflammation: improves
- Kidney Function: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood Pressure Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 2 studies | 24 people | ||
| Inflammation | Improves (the measure goes down) | 3 studies | 24 people | |||
| Kidney Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 24 people | ||||
| Proteinuria | Improves (the measure goes up) | 24 people |
Obesity
- Adiponectin: improves
- Blood glucose: improves
- Depression Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adiponectin Small Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Small effect | 1 study | 22 people | ||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 170 people | |||
| Depression Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 35 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 64 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 106 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 148 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 84 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 84 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 170 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 106 people | |||
| Arterial Stiffness | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 64 people | |||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 148 people | |||
| Vascular Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 22 people | |||
| Body Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 148 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 148 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 84 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 84 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 22 people | ||||
| Homocysteine | Improves (the measure goes down) | 22 people | ||||
| Interleukin 10 | Improves (the measure goes up) | 64 people | ||||
| Interleukin 8 | Changes; see studies | 64 people | ||||
| LDL Oxidation | Improves (the measure goes down) | 64 people | ||||
| Leptin | Improves (the measure goes up) | 22 people | ||||
| TNF-Alpha | Improves (the measure goes down) | 148 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 22 people |
Diabetic Microangiopathy
- Blood Flow: improves
- Leg Edema: changes; see studies
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood Flow Small Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Small effect | 1 study | 25 people | ||
| Leg Edema | Changes; see studies | 1 study | 25 people |
High Cholesterol
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 38 people | |||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 336 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 495 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 38 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 493 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 329 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 483 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 218 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 128 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 160 people | |||
| Uric Acid | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 48 people | |||
| Liver Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 132 people | |||
| Apolipoprotein A | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people | ||||
| Apolipoprotein B | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 148 people | ||||
| Cell Adhesion Factors | Improves (the measure goes down) | 38 people | ||||
| Cortisol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 212 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 128 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 493 people | ||||
| Kidney Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 48 people | ||||
| LDL Oxidation | Improves (the measure goes down) | 48 people | ||||
| Nitric Oxide | Improves (the measure goes up) | 38 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people |
Dyslipidemia
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 60 people | |||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 244 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 4,051 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 60 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 4,051 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 42 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 4,051 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 102 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 204 people | |||
| Uric Acid | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 102 people | |||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 42 people | |||
| Apolipoprotein A | Improves (the measure goes up) | 4,051 people | ||||
| Apolipoprotein B | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4,051 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 142 people | ||||
| Ferritin | Improves (the measure goes up) | 42 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 204 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 162 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 4,051 people | ||||
| Kidney Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Serum Albumin | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Urea | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| vLDL-C | Improves (the measure goes down) | 100 people |
General Liver Health
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 38 people | |||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 60 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 178 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 38 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 140 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 80 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 178 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 1,948 people | |||
| Bilirubin | Changes; see studies | 1 study | 60 people | |||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 38 people | ||||
| Cell Adhesion Factors | Improves (the measure goes down) | 38 people | ||||
| Hematocrit | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Hemoglobin | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 140 people | ||||
| Kidney Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Liver Fibrosis | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| Myeloperoxidase | Improves (the measure goes up) | 38 people | ||||
| Nitric Oxide | Improves (the measure goes up) | 38 people | ||||
| Red Blood Cell Count | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Serum Albumin | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Serum Platelets | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| Urea | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people | ||||
| White Blood Cell Count | Improves (the measure goes up) | 60 people |
Immune Health
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 38 people | |||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 3,048 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 3,364 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 38 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 1,329 people | |||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 1,005 people | |||
| Body Mass Index (BMI) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2,789 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,716 people | ||||
| Cell Adhesion Factors | Improves (the measure goes down) | 38 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,196 people | ||||
| Myeloperoxidase | Improves (the measure goes up) | 38 people | ||||
| Nitric Oxide | Improves (the measure goes up) | 38 people | ||||
| TNF-Alpha | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,025 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 529 people |
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Anxiety Symptoms: improves
- Depression Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anxiety Symptoms Large Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Large effect | 111 people | |||
| Depression Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 156 people |
Alzheimer’s Disease
- Cognitive Decline: improves
- Oxidative Stress Biomarkers: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Decline Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 27 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 27 people |
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL): improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes up) | Small effect | 63 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 63 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 63 people |
Alcohol Use Disorder
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Oxidative Stress Biomarkers: improves
- Liver Enzymes: changes; see studies
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 48 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 48 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 48 people | |||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 48 people | |||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 48 people |
Arsenic Poisoning
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Oxidative Stress Biomarkers: improves
- DNA Damage: changes; see studies
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 286 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 286 people | |||
| DNA Damage | Changes; see studies | 286 people |
Beta-Thalassemia/Hb E
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Oxidative Stress Biomarkers: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 21 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 21 people |
Mood Improvement
- Anxiety Symptoms: improves
- Depression Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anxiety Symptoms Large Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Large effect | 35 people | |||
| Depression Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 35 people |
Oral Lichen Planus
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP): improves
- Inflammation: improves
- Liver Enzymes: changes; see studies
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Small Decrease | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 20 people | |||
| Inflammation | Improves (the measure goes down) | 3 studies | 20 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 20 people | |||
| Mucositis Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 20 people |
Pancreatitis
- Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile: improves
- Oxidative Stress Biomarkers: improves
- Pancreatitis Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Oxidant Enzyme Profile Moderate Increase | Improves (the measure goes up) | Moderate effect | 20 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 20 people | |||
| Pancreatitis Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 20 people |
Surgical Recovery
- Fatigue Symptoms: improves
- Pain: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fatigue Symptoms Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 50 people | |||
| Pain | Improves (the measure goes down) | 14 studies | 50 people |
Alzheimer’s Disease
- Cognitive Decline: improves
- Oxidative Stress Biomarkers: changes; see studies
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Decline Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 27 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Changes; see studies | 6 studies | 27 people |
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose Small Improvement | Improves (the measure goes down) | Small effect | 18 studies | 284 people | ||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 2,142 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 2,226 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 362 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 613 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 792 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 84 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 232 people | |||
| Uric Acid | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 102 people | |||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 84 people | |||
| Liver Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 234 people | |||
| Body Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 84 people | ||||
| Body Mass Index (BMI) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 650 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 84 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 284 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 186 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 2,142 people | ||||
| Insulin Resistance | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,908 people | ||||
| Leptin | Improves (the measure goes up) | 46 people | ||||
| Liver Fibrosis | Improves (the measure goes down) | 132 people | ||||
| TNF-Alpha | Improves (the measure goes down) | 84 people | ||||
| Waist circumference | Improves (the measure goes down) | 164 people |
General Cardiovascular Health
- Arterial Stiffness
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arterial Stiffness No effect | NoneNo effect | 1 study | 118 people | |||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 1,350 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 1,014 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 24 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 1,276 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 32 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 822 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 912 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 581 people | |||
| Blood Flow | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 153 people | |||
| Vascular Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 67 people | |||
| Body Mass Index (BMI) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 156 people | ||||
| Bone-specific Alkaline Phosphatase | Improves (the measure goes up) | 230 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 208 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,038 people | ||||
| Heart Rate | Improves (the measure goes down) | 156 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1,087 people | ||||
| Oxygen Uptake | Improves (the measure goes up) | 152 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 284 people |
Menopause
- Arterial Stiffness
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arterial Stiffness No effect | NoneNo effect | 1 study | 56 people | |||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 307 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 255 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 32 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 32 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 32 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 156 people | |||
| Blood Flow | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 32 people | |||
| Body Mass Index (BMI) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 156 people | ||||
| Bone Mineral Density | Improves (the measure goes up) | 270 people | ||||
| Bone-specific Alkaline Phosphatase | Improves (the measure goes up) | 230 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 208 people | ||||
| Heart Rate | Improves (the measure goes down) | 156 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 32 people | ||||
| Oxygen Uptake | Improves (the measure goes up) | 152 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 284 people |
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Bilirubin
- Pain: improves
- Total cholesterol: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bilirubin No effect | NoneNo effect | 1 study | 36 people | |||
| Pain | Improves (the measure goes down) | 14 studies | 81 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 36 people | |||
| Inflammation | Improves (the measure goes down) | 3 studies | 36 people | |||
| Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 81 people | |||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 81 people | ||||
| Serum Albumin | Improves (the measure goes up) | 36 people | ||||
| Urea | Improves (the measure goes up) | 36 people |
Overweight
- Arterial Stiffness
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arterial Stiffness No effect | NoneNo effect | 1 study | 64 people | |||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 144 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 80 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 64 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 80 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 144 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 80 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 144 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 80 people | |||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 64 people | |||
| Liver Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 80 people | |||
| Body Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 64 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 64 people | ||||
| Cortisol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people | ||||
| Interleukin 10 | Improves (the measure goes up) | 64 people | ||||
| Interleukin 8 | Changes; see studies | 64 people | ||||
| LDL Oxidation | Improves (the measure goes down) | 64 people | ||||
| TNF-Alpha | Improves (the measure goes down) | 64 people |
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms
- Pain: improves
- Quality of Life: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms No effect | NoneNo effect | 1 study | 281 people | |||
| Pain | Improves (the measure goes down) | 14 studies | 281 people | |||
| Quality of Life | Improves (the measure goes up) | 35,000 people |
Prostate Cancer
- Erections
- Prostate-Specific Antigen: improves
- Prostate Cancer Risk: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Erections No effect | NoneNo effect | 1 study | 97 people | |||
| Prostate-Specific Antigen | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 97 people | |||
| Prostate Cancer Risk | Improves (the measure goes down) | 97 people | ||||
| Prostate Cancer Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 97 people | ||||
| Quality of Life | Improves (the measure goes up) | 97 people | ||||
| Testosterone | Improves (the measure goes up) | 97 people |
Metabolic Health
- Apolipoprotein A
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apolipoprotein A No effect | NoneNo effect | 80 people | ||||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 3,048 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 3,364 people | |||
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 24 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 1,276 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 80 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 822 people | |||
| Liver Enzymes | Changes; see studies | 3 studies | 1,329 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 1,186 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 581 people | |||
| Arterial Stiffness | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 44 people | |||
| Blood Flow | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 44 people | |||
| Interleukin 6 | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 1,005 people | |||
| Iron Absorption | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 10 people | |||
| Prostate-Specific Antigen | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 85 people | |||
| Apolipoprotein B | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| Body Mass Index (BMI) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2,789 people | ||||
| Bone-specific Alkaline Phosphatase | Improves (the measure goes up) | 230 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,716 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,196 people | ||||
| Heart Rate | Improves (the measure goes down) | 156 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1,087 people | ||||
| Oxygen Uptake | Improves (the measure goes up) | 152 people | ||||
| Prostate Cancer Risk | Improves (the measure goes down) | 85 people | ||||
| TNF-Alpha | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1,025 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 529 people |
Weight Loss & Maintenance
- Apolipoprotein A
- Blood glucose: improves
- Triglycerides: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apolipoprotein A No effect | NoneNo effect | 80 people | ||||
| Blood glucose | Improves (the measure goes down) | 18 studies | 160 people | |||
| Triglycerides | Improves (the measure goes down) | 9 studies | 190 people | |||
| Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 190 people | |||
| Weight | Improves (the measure goes down) | 5 studies | 949 people | |||
| Total cholesterol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 4 studies | 190 people | |||
| Blood Pressure | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 80 people | |||
| Insulin | Changes; see studies | 2 studies | 160 people | |||
| Liver Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 80 people | |||
| Apolipoprotein B | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| Body Fat | Improves (the measure goes down) | 269 people | ||||
| Body Mass Index (BMI) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 902 people | ||||
| C-Reactive Protein (CRP) | Improves (the measure goes down) | 110 people | ||||
| Cortisol | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| Glycemic Control | Improves (the measure goes up) | 160 people | ||||
| HbA1c | Improves (the measure goes down) | 80 people | ||||
| High-density lipoprotein (HDL) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 190 people | ||||
| Hip Circumference | Improves (the measure goes down) | 105 people | ||||
| Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) | Improves (the measure goes up) | 80 people | ||||
| Waist circumference | Improves (the measure goes down) | 419 people | ||||
| Waist-Hip Ratio | Improves (the measure goes up) | 117 people |
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Crohn's Disease Symptoms
- Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crohn's Disease Symptoms No effect | NoneNo effect | 92 people | ||||
| Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 367 people |
Body Composition
- Body Fat
- Weight: improves
- Body Mass Index (BMI): improves
Crohn's Disease
- Crohn's Disease Symptoms
- Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crohn's Disease Symptoms No effect | NoneNo effect | 10 people | ||||
| Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 10 people |
General Oral Health
- Oral cancer risk
- Oral Lichen Planus Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral cancer risk No effect | NoneNo effect | 675 people | ||||
| Oral Lichen Planus Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 201 people |
Chronic pain
- Pain: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain | Improves (the measure goes down) | 14 studies | 15 people |
Pain Relief
- Pain: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain | Improves (the measure goes down) | 14 studies | 15 people |
End-Stage Renal Disease
- Oxidative Stress Biomarkers: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oxidative Stress Biomarkers | Improves (the measure goes down) | 6 studies | 167 people |
Colorectal Cancer
- Colorectal Cancer Risk: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorectal Cancer Risk | Improves (the measure goes down) | 2 studies | 170 people |
Cognitive Improvement
- Cognition: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cognition | Improves (the measure goes up) | 2 studies | 501 people |
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
- Vascular Function: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vascular Function | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 88 people |
COVID-19
- COVID-19 Severity: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 Severity | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 40 people |
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- PMS Symptoms: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PMS Symptoms | Improves (the measure goes down) | 1 study | 70 people |
Digestive Health
- Intestinal Motility: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intestinal Motility | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 8 people |
H. Pylori Infection
- Stomach Ulcers: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stomach Ulcers | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 36 people |
H. Pylori Infection
- Stomach Ulcers: improves
| Grade | Outcome | Effect | Size | Studies | People | Studies list |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stomach Ulcers | Improves (the measure goes up) | 1 study | 36 people |
What the published studies found
6 automated readings
LDL cholesterol
The studies disagree. The best available review (2025, 63 studies, 3,706 people) found an improvement in LDL cholesterol, while 4 of the 8 studies read found no clear difference. The evidence is very weak.
8 studies counted of 8 read: 5 reviews and 3 trials (155 people in the trials).
- Meta-analysis, 2025; 63 studies, 3,706 people; patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemia: improves (the review the verdict rests on). Antidiabetic and Metabolic Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus or Hyperglycemia - A Systematic Meta-Review and Meta-Analysis
- Systematic review, 2025; 11 studies, 662 people; patients with metabolic diseases: no clear difference. Effects of curcumin on dyslipidemia and body mass index in metabolic disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
- Meta-analysis, 2022; 9 studies; patients with chronic kidney diseases: no clear difference. The effects of curcumin-containing supplementations on inflammatory markers and lipid profiles in patients with chronic kidney diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
- Systematic review, 2021; 22 studies; patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: improves. The Effect of Curcumin in Improving Lipid Profile in Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
- Meta-analysis, 2018; 26 studies, 1,890 people; patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: no clear difference.
no significant effect of curcumin supplementation on LDL-
The Effects of Curcumin on Glycemic Control and Lipid Profiles Among Patients with Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Metaanalysis of Randomized Controlled Trials - Randomised trial, 2021; 60 people; patients with grade 3 diabetic foot ulcer: improves.
significant reduction in total- (p < .001), LDL-cholesterol (p < .001)
The effects of curcumin intake on wound healing and metabolic status in patients with diabetic foot ulcer: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial - Randomised trial, 2014; 65 people; patients with metabolic syndrome: improves. Lipid-lowering effects of curcumin in patients with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
- Crossover trial, 2013; 30 people: no clear difference.
not found to affect serum levels of
Effects of supplementation with curcuminoids on dyslipidemia in obese patients: a randomized crossover trial
Cardiovascular events
The studies read are too weak to tell whether Curcumin changes cardiovascular events. The evidence is very weak.
1 study counted of 9 read: 1 trial (40 people in the trials).
- Randomised trial, 2019; 40 people; patients with unstable angina: no clear difference.
no significant differences between the two groups
The effects of curcumin on the prevention of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias and heart failure in patients with unstable angina: A randomized clinical trial
- Randomised trial, 2019; 40 people; patients with unstable angina: no clear difference.
Joint pain
The best available review (2025, 10 studies, 786 people) found an improvement in joint pain. All 10 studies read agree. The evidence is moderate.
10 studies counted of 10 read: 6 reviews and 4 trials (421 people in the trials).
- Meta-analysis, 2025; 10 studies, 786 people: improves (the review the verdict rests on).
significantly improved VAS for pain than placebo
Efficacy of Curcuma longa in relieving pain symptoms of knee osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials - Meta-analysis, 2024; 11 studies: improves. The efficacy of curcumin in relieving osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses
- Meta-analysis, 2022; 29 studies, 2,396 people; patients with arthritis: improves.
improved the severity of inflammation and pain levels
Efficacy and Safety of Curcumin and Curcuma longa Extract in the Treatment of Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trial - Systematic review, 2021; 51 studies: improves.
curcumin significantly improved morning stiffness, walking time and joint swelling
Curcumin and rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review of literature - Systematic review, 2021; 17 studies; patients with osteoarthritis, especially knee osteoarthritis: improves.
significant improvement in VAS and overall WOMAC scores
A Systematic Review of the Clinical Use of Curcumin for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis - Meta-analysis, 2017; 7 studies, 797 people; adults with primarily knee osteoarthritis: improves.
Compared with placebo, curcuminoids significantly reduced knee pain (visual analogue scale): (standardized mean difference: -3.45; …
Effectiveness of curcuminoids in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials - Randomised trial, 2024; 48 people; women with rheumatoid arthritis: improves.
it decreased tender joint counts, swollen joint counts, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and …
The efficacy of curcumin supplementation on serum total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, and disease activity in women with rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial - Randomised trial, 2020; 72 people; older adults with knee osteoarthritis: improves.
significantly lower in the intervention group
The effect of curcumin ointment on knee pain in older adults with osteoarthritis: a randomized placebo trial - Randomised trial, 2018; 201 people; 40- to 70-year-old patients with osteoarthritis: improves.
significant effect of Curamin® compared to placebo
Efficacy and safety of curcumin and its combination with boswellic acid in osteoarthritis: a comparative, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study - Randomised trial, 2010; 100 people: improves.
Significant improvements of both the clinical
Efficacy and safety of Meriva®, a curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, during extended administration in osteoarthritis patients
- Meta-analysis, 2025; 10 studies, 786 people: improves (the review the verdict rests on).
Knee pain
The best available review (2025, 10 studies, 786 people) found an improvement in knee pain. All 10 studies read agree. The evidence is moderate.
10 studies counted of 11 read: 6 reviews and 4 trials (263 people in the trials).
- Meta-analysis, 2025; 10 studies, 786 people: improves (the review the verdict rests on). Efficacy of Curcuma longa in relieving pain symptoms of knee osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
- Meta-analysis, 2024; 11 studies; patients with osteoarthritis: improves. The efficacy of curcumin in relieving osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses
- Meta-analysis, 2022; 12 studies, 1,438 people; patients with knee osteoarthritis: improves.
improvement was significant with regard to pain
A Meta-Analysis of the Impact of Nutritional Supplementation on Osteoarthritis Symptoms - Systematic review, 2021; 10 studies; individuals with knee osteoarthritis: improves.
All 10 studies showed improvement in pain
Therapeutic effects of turmeric or curcumin extract on pain and function for individuals with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review - Systematic review, 2021; 17 studies; patients with knee osteoarthritis: improves.
significant improvement in VAS and overall WOMAC scores
A Systematic Review of the Clinical Use of Curcumin for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis - Meta-analysis, 2017; 7 studies, 797 people; adults with primarily knee osteoarthritis: improves.
Compared with placebo, curcuminoids significantly reduced knee pain (visual analogue scale): (standardized mean difference: -3.45; …
Effectiveness of curcuminoids in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials - Randomised trial, 2021; 101 people; adults with knee osteoarthritis: improves.
curcumin significantly reduced the KOOS knee pain score
An Investigation into the Effects of a Curcumin Extract (Curcugen®) on Osteoarthritis Pain of the Knee: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study - Randomised trial, 2020; 72 people; older adults with knee osteoarthritis: improves.
absolute difference of 1.133 (i.e. 11.33 mm) score
The effect of curcumin ointment on knee pain in older adults with osteoarthritis: a randomized placebo trial - Randomised trial, 2014; 50 people; patients with knee osteoarthritis: improves. Short-term effects of highly-bioavailable curcumin for treating knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled prospective study
- Randomised trial, 2014; 40 people; patients with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis: improves.
significant improvements in the pain and physical function scores
Curcuminoid treatment for knee osteoarthritis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Memory
The studies disagree. The best available review (2026) found an improvement in memory, while 1 of the 9 studies read found mixed results. The evidence is very weak.
9 studies counted of 11 read: 6 reviews and 3 trials (180 people in the trials).
- Systematic review, 2026; adults, particularly older adults: improves (the review the verdict rests on).
curcumin supplementation could improve cognitive domains, including memory
Curcumin and Cognitive Health: Insights from Randomized Controlled Trials - Meta-analysis, 2025; 10 studies, 531 people: mixed results.
significant improvements in working memory (SMD = 1.01
Targeting cognitive aging with curcumin supplementation: A systematic review and meta-analysis - Systematic review, 2025; 29 studies; rodent models of dementia: improves.
Cognitive performance improved in around 80% of studies
Curcumin and Dementia: A Systematic Review of Its Effects on Oxidative Stress and Cognitive Outcomes in Animal Models - Systematic review, 2024; 12 studies; adults 18 years and older: improves.
studies found curcumin significantly improves working memory in the following adult groups: non-demented, metabolically impaired, …
Curcumin and Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review of the Effects of Curcumin on Adults With and Without Neurocognitive Disorders - Meta-analysis, 2021; 8 studies, 389 people: improves.
improvement in working memory (Hedges' g = 0.396
The Effect of Curcumin Differs on Individual Cognitive Domains across Different Patient Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - Meta-analysis, 2019; 6 studies, 289 people; older adults and patients with Alzheimer's disease: improves.
scores on measures of cognitive function (SMD = 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.05, 0.62]
Curcumin intervention for cognitive function in different types of people: A systematic review and meta-analysis - Randomised trial, 2020; 80 people; healthy older adults aged 50-80 years: improves.
better working memory performance at 12-weeks
Further Evidence of Benefits to Mood and Working Memory from Lipidated Curcumin in Healthy Older People: A 12-Week, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Partial Replication Study - Randomised trial, 2018; 40 people; non-demented adults aged 51-84 years: improves.
SRT Consistent Long-Term Retrieval improved with curcumin
Memory and Brain Amyloid and Tau Effects of a Bioavailable Form of Curcumin in Non-Demented Adults: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled 18-Month Trial - Randomised trial, 2015; 60 people; healthy adults aged 60-85: improves.
curcumin significantly improved performance on sustained attention and working memory tasks
Investigation of the effects of solid lipid curcumin on cognition and mood in a healthy older population
- Systematic review, 2026; adults, particularly older adults: improves (the review the verdict rests on).
Stress
The studies disagree. The best available review (2026, 21 studies) found an improvement in stress, while 1 of the 5 studies read found mixed results. The evidence is very weak.
5 studies counted of 9 read: 5 reviews.
- Systematic review, 2026; 21 studies; hemodialysis patients and immunosuppressive drug users: improves (the review the verdict rests on).
demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits in HD patients
Effects of turmeric and curcumin in patients on dialysis or using immunosuppressive agents: a systematic review - Systematic review, 2026; 20 studies; various clinical populations including metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cardiovascular disease: improves.
12 showed improvements in oxidative stress markers
Curcumin-piperine supplementation modulates inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiometabolic risk: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials - Meta-analysis, 2025; 13 studies: mixed results. The Effects of Curcumin Plus Piperine Co-administration on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
- Systematic review, 2021; 12 studies, 631 people; patients with renal diseases: improves.
favorable effects on renal diseases, particularly in terms of inflammation and oxidative stress
The Use of Curcumin for the Treatment of Renal Disorders: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials - Meta-analysis, 2019; 17 studies; individuals with diseased conditions: improves.
Curcumin significantly reduced MDA [SMD -0.46
Curcumin reduces malondialdehyde and improves antioxidants in humans with diseased conditions: a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
- Systematic review, 2026; 21 studies; hemodialysis patients and immunosuppressive drug users: improves (the review the verdict rests on).
Key findings
- Mucositis SymptomsImproves (the measure goes down)
- Anxiety SymptomsImproves (the measure goes down)
- Blood glucoseImproves (the measure goes down)
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Studies cited
100 studies from PubMed
- Effect of curcumin on inflammatory markers and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A meta-analysis.
- The Effect of Antioxidant Polyphenol Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
- The Effectiveness of Curcumin, Resveratrol, and Silymarin on MASLD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
- Curcumin alleviates postprandial glycaemic response in healthy subjects: A cross-over, randomized controlled study
- Substantial Variability Across Individuals in the Vascular and Nutrigenomic Response to an Acute Intake of Curcumin: A Randomized Controlled Trial
- Curcumin supplementation improves vascular endothelial function in healthy middle-aged and older adults by increasing nitric oxide bioavailability and reducing oxidative stress
- Novel Form of Curcumin Improves Endothelial Function in Young, Healthy Individuals: A Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Study
- Effect of different curcuminoid supplement dosages on total in vivo antioxidant capacity and cholesterol levels of healthy human subjects
- Effects of Curcuma longa (turmeric) on postprandial plasma glucose and insulin in healthy subjects
- Combined inhibitory effects of soy isoflavones and curcumin on the production of prostate-specific antigen
- Effect of NCB-02, atorvastatin and placebo on endothelial function, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, 8-week study
- Chili, but not turmeric, inhibits iron absorption in young women from an iron-fortified composite meal
- Efficacy of Curcuma longa in relieving pain symptoms of knee osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.
- Curcuma longa extract reduces inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in osteoarthritis of knee: a four-month, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
- Efficacy and safety of curcumin and its combination with boswellic acid in osteoarthritis: a comparative, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
- Short-term effects of highly-bioavailable curcumin for treating knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled prospective study
- Safety and efficacy of curcumin versus diclofenac in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized open-label parallel-arm study
- Curcuminoid treatment for knee osteoarthritis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
- Safety and efficacy of Curcuma longa extract in the treatment of painful knee osteoarthritis: a randomized placebo-controlled trial
- Efficacy and safety of Meriva®, a curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, during extended administration in osteoarthritis patients
- Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts compared with ibuprofen in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a multicenter study
- Product-evaluation registry of Meriva®, a curcumin-phosphatidylcholine complex, for the complementary management of osteoarthritis
- The efficacy of Curcuma Longa L. extract as an adjuvant therapy in primary knee osteoarthritis: a randomized control trial
- A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled, Parallel-Group Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Curene® versus Placebo in Reducing Symptoms of Knee OA
- Efficacy and safety of Curcuma domestica extracts in patients with knee osteoarthritis
- Efficacy and safety of curcumin therapy for knee osteoarthritis: A Bayesian network meta-analysis.
- Effect of turmeric products on knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.
- Effects of curcumin on serum inflammatory biomarkers in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
- Curcumin Lowers Serum Lipids and Uric Acid in Subjects With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
- The effects of curcumin supplementation on liver enzymes, lipid profile, glucose homeostasis, and hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Treatment of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Curcumin: A Randomized Placebo-controlled Trial
- Nano-curcumin improves glucose indices, lipids, inflammation, and Nesfatin in overweight and obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial
- Curcumin as adjuvant treatment in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
- Turmeric Supplementation Improves Serum Glucose Indices and Leptin Levels in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases
- Does Turmeric/curcumin Supplementation Change Anthropometric Indices in Patients with Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
- Highly bioavailable micellar curcuminoids accumulate in blood, are safe and do not reduce blood lipids and inflammation markers in moderately hyperlipidemic individuals
- Efficacy of Turmeric as Adjuvant Therapy in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
- Effects of curcumin/turmeric supplementation on lipid profile: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
- Bread enriched with phytosterols with or without curcumin modulates lipoprotein profiles in hypercholesterolaemic individuals. A randomised controlled trial
- The Effect of Curcumin on some of Traditional and Non-traditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Pilot Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial
- Effect of Curcumin on Serum Urate in Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
- Effect of turmeric on glycemic status, lipid profile, hs-CRP, and total antioxidant capacity in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
- Effects of phytosomal curcumin on anthropometric parameters, insulin resistance, cortisolemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease indices: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
- Highly absorptive curcumin reduces serum atherosclerotic low-density lipoprotein levels in patients with mild COPD
- Curcumin potentiates cholesterol-lowering effects of phytosterols in hypercholesterolaemic individuals. A randomised controlled trial
- Curcuminoids modify lipid profile in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized controlled trial
- Diverse effects of a low dose supplement of lipidated curcumin in healthy middle aged people
- Effects of supplementation with curcuminoids on dyslipidemia in obese patients: a randomized crossover trial
- Curcumin effects on blood lipid profile in a 6-month human study
- The effect of nano-curcumin on HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, and lipid profile in diabetic subjects: a randomized clinical trial
- Effects of Curcuminoids Plus Piperine on Glycemic, Hepatic and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
- Curcumin attenuates urinary excretion of albumin in type II diabetic patients with enhancing nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (Nrf2) system and repressing inflammatory signaling efficacies
- The effects of curcumin supplementation on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, serum adiponectin, and lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
- Reduction of atherogenic risk in patients with type 2 diabetes by curcuminoid extract: a randomized controlled trial
- Curcuminoids exert glucose-lowering effect in type 2 diabetes by decreasing serum free fatty acids: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
- Nano curcumin supplementation reduced the severity of diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized double-blind placebo- controlled clinical trial
- Curcumin extract for prevention of type 2 diabetes
- The effect of turmeric/curcumin supplementation on anthropometric indices in subjects with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
- The effects of curcumin-containing supplements on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
- Curcumin on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 103 Randomized Controlled Trials.
- Effects of Curcumin on Postmenopausal Women's Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
- The effect of curcumin supplementation on weight loss and anthropometric indices: an umbrella review and updated meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials.
- Curcumin ingestion and exercise training improve vascular endothelial function in postmenopausal women
- Effect of endurance exercise training and curcumin intake on central arterial hemodynamics in postmenopausal women: pilot study
- Curcumin for depression: a meta-analysis
- Efficacy of curcumin, and a saffron/curcumin combination for the treatment of major depression: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
- Curcumin for the treatment of major depression: a randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled study
- Chronic Supplementation of Curcumin Enhances the Efficacy of Antidepressants in Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
- Curcumin as an add-on to antidepressive treatment: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot clinical study
- Add-on Treatment with Curcumin Has Antidepressive Effects in Thai Patients with Major Depression: Results of a Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study
- Influence of red pepper spice and turmeric on inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers in overweight females: a metabolomics approach
- The effectiveness of fermented turmeric powder in subjects with elevated alanine transaminase levels: a randomised controlled study
- Effects of curcumin/turmeric supplementation on liver function in adults: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
- Curcumin attenuates severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
- The Effects of Curcumin on Weight Loss Among Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
- Clinical efficacy of the co-administration of Turmeric and Black seeds (Kalongi) in metabolic syndrome - a double blind randomized controlled trial - TAK-MetS trial
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcuminoid-piperine combination in subjects with metabolic syndrome: A randomized controlled trial and an updated meta-analysis
- Effects of Nanocurcumin Supplementation on Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
- Lipid-modifying effects of adjunctive therapy with curcuminoids-piperine combination in patients with metabolic syndrome: results of a randomized controlled trial
- A Novel Highly Bioavailable Curcumin Formulation Improves Symptoms and Diagnostic Indicators in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Two-Dose, Three-Arm, and Parallel-Group Study
- A randomized, pilot study to assess the efficacy and safety of curcumin in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis
- Influence of enhanced bioavailable curcumin on obesity-associated cardiovascular disease risk factors and arterial function: A double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial
- An investigation of the effects of curcumin on anxiety and depression in obese individuals: A randomized controlled trial
- Investigation of the efficacy of adjunctive therapy with bioavailability-boosted curcuminoids in major depressive disorder
- Efficacy and safety of curcumin in major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the role of curcumin in prostate cancer patients with intermittent androgen deprivation
- Oral supplementation of turmeric attenuates proteinuria, transforming growth factor-β and interleukin-8 levels in patients with overt type 2 diabetic nephropathy: a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study
- Potential role of curcumin phytosome (Meriva) in controlling the evolution of diabetic microangiopathy. A pilot study
- A pilot study of the antioxidant effect of curcumin in tropical pancreatitis
- Curcumin and/or omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation reduces insulin resistance and blood lipids in individuals with high risk of type 2 diabetes: a randomised controlled trial
- Upregulation of p53 expression in patients with colorectal cancer by administration of curcumin
- Phase IIa clinical trial of curcumin for the prevention of colorectal neoplasia
- Curcumin therapy in inflammatory bowel disease: a pilot study
- Curcumin for the clinical treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials.
- A Novel Curcumin-Galactomannoside Complex Delivery System Improves Hepatic Function Markers in Chronic Alcoholics: A Double-Blinded, randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
- Oral supplementation of turmeric decreases proteinuria, hematuria, and systolic blood pressure in patients suffering from relapsing or refractory lupus nephritis: a randomized and placebo-controlled study
- Curcumin protects DNA damage in a chronically arsenic-exposed population of West Bengal
- Improvement in oxidative stress and antioxidant parameters in beta-thalassemia/Hb E patients treated with curcuminoids
- Comparative evaluation of the pain-relieving properties of a lecithinized formulation of curcumin (Meriva(®)), nimesulide, and acetaminophen
- The effect of curcumin on lipid level in patients with acute coronary syndrome