The active ingredient in the yellow spice Turmeric – Curcumin works as well as anti-inflammatory drugs, but with no side effects. It has been used for 4,000 years in Ayurvedic Medicine to treat a variety of symptoms. It is also well known as an antioxidant. Like non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs it blocks the formation of two pro inflammatory prostaglandins, as well as leukotrienes. It acts as a mild Cox-3 and Lox inhibitor.

In one double-blind, placebo-controlled study,  people whose ulcerative colitis was in remission received either curcumin or placebo, along with conventional medical treatment for 6 months. Those who took curcumin had a relapse rate that was much lower than those who took placebo.

In a 2006 study, patients with quiescent (inactive) ulcerative colitis received curcumin to prevent a relapse. Results indicated that curcumin was a safe and effective for UC maintenance therapy. Another study indicated that when mice were exposed to irritants that evoked colitis symptoms, the mice that ate a diet rich in curcumin had less intestinal inflammation.

Apparently there is no evidence of any downsides to taking curcumin, even in doses as high as 8g a day. It has been used for over 4,000 years in Indian Ayurvedic Medicine with no known side effects. So add some Turmeric to your dinner or get some Curcumin supplements, it seems it can only help.

Meals That Heal Inflammation