Turmeric (Curcumin) for Your Pain

Curcumin is the main active compound in the spice turmeric, and it is one of the most potent natural anti-inflammatory agents ever discovered. It works by blocking NF-κB, a master signaling molecule that turns on genes related to inflammation. Since chronic inflammation (inflammaging) is a key driver of nearly every age-related disease, curcumin's ability to quell this "fire" is central to its benefits for biological age. It helps to protect joints, the brain, and the cardiovascular system from inflammatory damage. The main challenge with curcumin is its poor bioavailability. It is best absorbed when consumed with black pepper (which contains piperine) and a source of fat, or when taken in a supplement form specifically designed for enhanced absorption, such as a phytosome formulation.