Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory compound from the spice turmeric. it has been used for centuries in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to relieve swelling and pains in the joints.

Curcumin has shown to specifically protect cartilage cells from inflammatory factors. It blocks the enzymes responsible for promoting inflammation. Studies have demonstrated that curcumin may be as effective as ibuprofen on pain with walking and stair climbing. It is safe and well tolerated by most, though patients on blood thinning medications should be cautious.