How Do the Compounds in Turmeric Work Against Arthritis?

Multiple lab and animal studies show that whole turmeric extracts, turmeric essential oils, and the curcumin compounds in turmeric have anti-arthritic effects. Turmeric and its compounds work by blocking many of the proteins and destructive enzymes that promote inflammation. These are found in both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. ^(v.190-192)

Some of these include:

Turmeric Compounds That May Help Rheumatoid Arthritis

As an autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by a dysfunctional immune system that leads to inflammation. Animal studies show curcumin compounds from turmeric suppress the disease-causing antibodies found in RA. ^(v.189)

Besides curcumin, other compounds in turmeric also prevent the activation of the transcription factor protein NF-κB. This transcription factor triggers dozens of genes that produce inflammatory proteins, including TNF-α, that play a key role in arthritis. By blocking NF-κB, experts suggest that these natural compounds may safely inhibit TNF-α's inflammatory activity in arthritis. Those compounds found in turmeric include: ^{(v.186, 193)}

• EUGENOL ^(v.75)
• RESVERATROL ^{(v.164, 165)}
• VITAMIN C ^(v.73)
• VITAMIN E ^(v.176)