It has been shown to ease symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis such as inflammation and pain.
In multiple lab tests, curcumin has also been shown to block the growth of certain types of tumors. One study showed that a turmeric extract containing curcumin was able to stabilize colorectal cancer.
Turmeric is commonly used as an ingredient in South Asian cooking and is added to various meals as a flavor enhancer. Although it is mostly eaten with food, there are other ways to consume turmeric without having to cook up an entire meal.