Oral turmeric/curcumin effects on inflammatory markers in chronic inflammatory diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Researchers combined results from randomized controlled trials, where people were assigned by chance to take turmeric or curcumin, or a comparison treatment. The participants had chronic inflammatory diseases. The researchers measured inflammatory markers, which are blood signs of inflammation. Overall, turmeric or curcumin appeared to lower some markers, including C-reactive protein, TNF-alpha, and interleukin-6, but results varied between studies.

What this means for you: This suggests turmeric or curcumin may modestly improve some blood tests, but it does not show that supplements relieve symptoms or extend life. The studies were varied and often limited, so this is not a strong reason to buy a product without discussing it with a healthcare professional.