Turmeric
In Ayurvedic medicine (traditional Indian medicine), turmeric rhizome has been used for centuries internally as a tonic for the stomach and liver and as a blood purifier, and externally in the treatment and prevention of skin diseases and in arthritic complaints.(13) The laboratory and clinical research indicates that turmeric and its phenolics have unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.(14) The anti-inflammatory strength of turmeric is comparable to steroidal drugs such as indomethacin.(15)

Turmeric has been reported to be anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant.(13) Curcuminoids reportedly inhibit enzymes which participate in the synthesis of inflammatory substances (leukotrienes and prostaglandins) derived from arachidonic acid, and it is claimed they are comparable in activity to the NSAID.(16) In a double-blind study of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, curcumin produced significant improvement in all subjects.(15) Turmeric is also claimed to inhibit platelet aggregation.(17)

Curcumin reportedly has a similar action to that of aspirin and aspirin-like anti-inflammatory agents.(18) However, an advantage of curcumin over aspirin is claimed, since curcumin, unlike aspirin, is reported to selectively inhibit synthesis of inflammatory prostaglandins but does not affect the synthesis of prostacyclin.(18) Curcumin may be preferable for individuals who are prone to vascular thrombosis and require anti-inflammatory and/or anti-arthritic therapy.

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