Do you have trouble getting relief for your aches and pains? Lots of people take common pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or naproxen (Aleve) to manage joint and muscles discomfort. While such drugs can help in the short term, long-term use caries risks. Those who take them regularly are more likely to experience intestinal irritation, cardiovascular complications and even kidney injury. Could anti-inflammatory supplements help?
Turmeric to Alleviate Aches and Pains:
Q. I find turmeric powder mixed in a morning drink relieves my aches and pains very well. As a result, I very rarely need to take an NSAID pain reliever like ibuprofen.
A. Turmeric, the yellow spice that gives curry and yellow mustard their characteristic colors, has a reputation for anti-inflammatory activity. A review of eight randomized controlled trials suggests that it can be helpful in alleviating arthritis pain (Journal of Medicinal Food, Aug. 2016). A pilot study found a proprietary formulation of turmeric (Longvida®) was effective and safe for knee pain due to osteoarthritis (Journal of Inflammation Research, June 5, 2019). One person in this small study developed an itchy rash while taking the turmeric product. Consequently, we are not surprised it helps your aches and pains. We suspect others would also find it beneficial.
Learn More:
Other anti-inflammatory herbs such as ashwagandha and boswellia can also help alleviate aches and pains. We discuss turmeric, boswellia and other botanical treatments in our eGuide to Alternatives for Arthritis. You may also want to find out about other anti-inflammatory herbs in our book, Spice Up Your Health: How Everyday Kitchen Herbs & Spices Can Lengthen & Strengthen Your Life. In addition, we discuss the anti-inflammatory power of cherries and anti-cancer effects of turmeric in Show 1079: What Is the Science Behind Fabulous Foods for Health?
