Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is an herb that belongs to the ginger family.

Used for thousands of years in cooking and medicine alike, it has recently garnered attention for its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Curcumin is the major active compound in turmeric. It treats a host of conditions, including chronic inflammation, pain, metabolic syndrome, and anxiety.

In particular, multiple studies reveal that supplemental doses of curcumin are as effective for alleviating arthritis pain as some common anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen.

Both turmeric and curcumin supplements are widely considered safe.

You can also use fresh or dried turmeric in dishes like curries, although the amount you typically eat in food isn’t likely to have a significant medicinal effect.