Best Curcumin Supplements Reviewed & Rated
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Curcumin is the active ingredient found in turmeric and ginger to some extent. It is a highly potent anti-inflammatory and can help to prevent cancer. It has also been found to be an effective symptom reliever for metabolic syndrome, so the benefits of the supplement are incredible.
Curcumin has been shown to improve general cardiovascular and liver health, as well as being a powerful anti-inflammatory supplement to alleviate symptoms of diseases such as arthritis. It can also help in the eradication of free radicals within the body, which have been linked to diseases such as cancers. This makes a curcumin supplement an excellent addition to anyone’s diet to give an extra health boost.
Our Top 3 Picks
- Doctor's Best High Absorption Curcumin
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Our rating - Neutralizes free radicals
- Price: See Here
- Genceutic Naturals Curcumin Softgels
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Our rating - Greater Bioavailability
- Price: See Here
- EuroPharma Terry Naturally Curamin
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Our rating - Absorbs easily
- Price: See Here
10 Best Curcumin Supplements
1. Doctor's Best
They are easy to take, as the serving suggestion is one capsule once per day, giving a huge 120 portions in each container.
However, this is the most expensive option on this list for curcumin capsules, meaning that there is not as much as much saving as other options, although they are the highest dosage on the list.
- 100% vegan
- GMO-free
- Environmentally friendly
- Expensive
2. Genceutic Naturals
These are to be taken once or twice daily and the recommended serving size is one capsule, so there are 60 portions per container, so they are not as high value for money and do not last as long as other options on our top 10 list.
They are not vegetarian or vegan friendly, as the Genceutic Naturals Curcumin Capsules are a gel capsule created with gelatine.
- Absorbs up to seven times better
- Relieves the pain for inflamed joints
- Improves heart and liver function
Not good for vegans/vegetarials
3. EuroPharma
The capsules use four key ingredients, BCM-95, BosPure, DLPA, and Nattokinase to create this powerful painkiller, all of which are totally naturally and have been developed to work together to treat bodily aches and absorb into the body as best as possible.
These should be taken three times daily and the suggested serving size is one capsule per portion, giving 120 portions in every container.
This is a high daily dosage, and is much higher than other items on this list, so it is not as cost effective as many other capsules available. However it is also gluten, dairy and meat free, and suitable for vegans, so it is suitable for a wide range of dietary requirements.
- Potent formula
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- Gluten and dairy free
- Somewhat expensive
4. Thompson
These capsules are not vegetarian or vegan friendly, as the gel capsule is made from animal gelatine, however, they are a great price and great value for money as a daily supplement to add an extra health boost to your diet.
Thompson has been developing health products and supplements since 1932, so you can be confident that you are getting a good quality product to help aid in your body’s overall health and performance.
- Derived from natural root
- High quality ingredients
- Potent product
- Not good for vegans/vegetarials
5. Natural Factors
These capsules support the health and functions of the joints and surrounding tissues, as well as being a powerful anti-inflammatory to help treat different issues associated with joint problems. Curcumin also keeps your heart and blood vessels healthy, promoting a heightened cardiovascular health.
These are to be taken between one and two times a day,and the dosage is one capsule. This gives you 60 portions in each bottle, which is a great value.
It is not as many as some others on our list, but the price is also lower than these options. They are also totally GMO-free and totally vegan friendly, so they are very environmentally friendly.
- GMO-free
- 100 % vegan friendly
- Environmentally friendly
- None
6. California Gold Nutrition
These are to be taken between one and three times a day, and you only need to take one capsule, giving you 30 servings in each container. As the price is a lot lower than other items on this list, this is a great saving, as it will last around a month.
The Capsules are also free from dairy, most nuts, gluten and yeast, so they are suitable for a wide range of dietary requirements.
The main downside is that they do not explicitly say that they are vegetarian or vegan, even though there is no gelatine mentioned in the ingredients.
- Dairy fee
- Gluten free
- Yeast free
- Potent formula
- May not be suitable for vegetarians and vegans
7. Now Foods
These are created from natural botanicals and herbs, they are GMO-free, kosher, vegan friendly, and GMP quality assures, so you can be confident that the these are an environmentally friendly supplement, suitable for a huge range of dietary requirements.
Take them once or twice a day with food, and the serving size is only one capsule, so there are 120 servings per container, making these curcumin capsules great value for money. The dosage is slightly higher than other capsules on this list, which can be difficult if you have difficulties with swallowing larger tablets.
Now Foods is a family owned company that has been creating health food supplements for nearly 50 years, so you can be sure that the Now Foods Curcumin Capsules are an excellent addition to your diet in order to get some extra health benefits.
- Great anti-inflamatory properties
- GMO-free
- Kosher
- Vegan friendly
- Large tablets
8. Jarrow Formulas
To be taken once or twice a day, and the serving size is only one capsule per day, giving you a massive 120 portions per container. This means that the Jarrow Formulas Curcumin 95 Capsules will last you for around four months, which is a great saving and excellent value for money.
The main downside is that this product is slightly pricier than some other versions on this list, however they give you a much longer lasting product with a higher potency for a lower dosage, both of which save you money in the long run.
- Strong antioxidant
- Gluten free
- Dairy free
- Meat free
- Does not have a high level of absorption
9. Life Extension
These have up to almost seven times better absorption than other capsules, and the product is another GMO-free and environmentally friendly curcumin capsule.
These tablets are a much lower dosage due to the latest development in the capsule creations, and only require one capsule a day, giving around 60 dosages per carton, making them a great value for money, as well as great for your health.
- GMO free
- Great price value
- Quality ingredients
- Lower dosage per capsule
10. Doctor’s Best
The curcumin capsules themselves are non-GMO and gluten and soy free, so they are suitable for a wide range of dietary requirements and very environmentally friendly; however they are not a meat free supplement due to the gelatine used to make the capsules into gels.
The recommended dosage of the curcumin capsules is twice daily with food, which is an easy dosage to take, and there are about 60 dosages in one carton.
This is great value for money for the cost conscious, making the Doctor’s Best Curcumin the best option for both health and budget. The benefits are what have easily brought the supplement to the top of this list, as they are environmentally friendly and great for your health, as well as your wallet.
- Non-GMO
- Gluten free
- Soy free
- Not good for vegans/vegetarials
Benefits
Curcumin has proven to be one of the most beneficial components of all time. It is largely consumed in the Indian subcontinent as a regular part of the diet, in turn people of the Indian subcontinent have been known to have the lowest incidences of diseases like Alzheimer’s or even tumors. Even a minor study of the effects and actions of Curcumin in one’s body will indicate just how beneficial this component is and why it must immediately be incorporated into regular diet.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Intake of Curcumin has shown significant benefits when it comes to the reduction of swelling and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory effects of Curcumin are so strong that studies have indicated that it may be better than aspirin or even Ibuprofen. This component also reduces joint pain for people suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee or even rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, in the Indian Subcontinent, people make a paste out of curcumin and use it on wounds or even drink it mixed with milk to promote wound healing.
Diabetes Management Help
Studies have shown that the effects of Curcumin are so beneficial that it may be used for Diabetes Management. The literature states that curcumin may be better at controlling blood glucose than conventional Diabetes medication. This component has also shown benefits for people who may suffer from insulin resistance and even hyperglycemia (increase in blood sugar). Studies also show that incorporating curcumin in one’s daily routine can potentially delay the effects of hyperglycemia like neuropathy (pain from nerve damage) or retinopathy (loss of vision).
Improved Brain Function
Alzheimer’s, a progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions, is a disease which effects 48 million people worldwide, according to a 2015 study. Curcumin has been shown to potentially delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. It may also improve brain function by increasing the growth of new neurons and fights degenerative processes in the brain.
Anti-depressive effects
Curcumin has also shown to be beneficial for those that may be depressed. It has shown a stronger anti-depressive effect than Prozac- all without the side effects.
Amazing effects for athletes
Hours and hours of extensive workouts tend to take a toll on the joints and muscles of athletes. It not only leads to joint and muscle pain but may also cause inflammation for athletes as well. Taking curcumin post work out has been shown to help athletes with the post exercise pain and inflammation. Its anti-oxidant effect that aids recovery and muscle growth is also a bonus.
Furthermore, the wound healing properties of curcumin aid with bruise healing as well as any injuries. So, for those athletes who experience muscle damage post workout may really benefit from the healing properties of curcumin.
Usage Recommendations
Curcumin is a supplement that has found to be very safe for humans even in large doses. The standard dose of curcumin is between 80mg-1000mg; however, it has been shown to be safe in higher doses as well. It is always recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting a new regimen of supplements especially if you are already taking other medications.
When it comes to taking Curcumin, it may be a little tricky.
The bioavailability (the proportion of the substance that stays in the blood to give its effects) of curcumin, when taken orally, is relatively short- peaks in just about 1-2 hrs and is found in very low levels in the blood. So if body builders are looking to utilize the effects of curcumin, it is a good idea to take it immediately after a workout so it can provide beneficial pain relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. For those people that are just looking to incorporate this substance in their lives for its properties, it is a good idea to take it at that time during the day when pain or inflammation is highest so it can provide immediate effects.
Curcumin is also known to be fat soluble so to allow for proper absorption into the blood stream, it is a good idea to take it with a meal that has components of fat in it like avocados, cheese, fish or even nuts.
Some Precautions and General Information
Precautions
Even though at high levels, the side effects of curcumin are negligible, it is always possible to experience side effects when it comes to supplements. Some of the known side effects of curcumin are: feeling generally unwell, diarrhea, irregular liver tests, increased contractions of the gallbladder, lowered blood pressure, contractions of the uterus in women who are pregnant, and heavy menstruations.
General Information
As with any other supplement, there are hundreds of brands in the market that sell the same product. However, looking out for products that suit your needs is extremely important. For example, people with dietary needs may want to look out for brands that cater to vegetarian or vegan needs while others may want to look out for allergies or even the kind of dosage they require.
Lastly, people looking to avail the many benefits of curcumin should definitely start a regimen of the product. It is also a good idea to incorporate foods into ones diet that naturally contain certain levels of curcumin. Foods like curry powder and ginger are some of the common sources of curcumin found in nature. For those who do not like to eat spoonful’s of curcumin powder, eating food from the Indian subcontinent, like curry based dishes usually contain significant levels of curcumin.
FAQs
Q) What are curcumin supplements used for?
Curcumin Supplements have a variety of uses. Among the most important uses of this supplement is its action of pain relief. It also helps with inflammation, joint pain, diabetes management help and also displays anti depression action.
Q) Where can one buy them?
Curcumin supplements are easily found online on websites like Amazon that have a large variety of brands to chose from. Also, large grocery stores may carry this supplement in their “vitamin” or supplement isle.
Q) How to take these supplements?
The regimen for taking curcumin supplements is one that needs careful consideration. The standard dose of curcumin is between 80mg-1000mg; however, it has been shown to be safe in higher doses as well. On the other hand, taking curcumin to utilize its benefits may require a little follow up. The bioavailability (the proportion of the substance that stays in the blood to give its effects) of curcumin when taken orally is relatively short- peaks in just about 1-2 hrs and is found in very low levels in the blood.
Hence, if people like body builders are looking to apply the effects of curcumin, it is a good idea to take it directly after a workout so it can provide beneficial pain relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
Q) In what forms is curcumin supplement available?
Curcumin is found in a variety of forms. Some of the common ones that are easily found are tablets, soft gels and capsules. The doses available for these supplements vary from 250mg – 1000mg.
Q) Who should take these supplements?
Due to its many useful characteristics, a host of individuals can benefit from the use of curcumin supplements.
Arthritis patients
Patients who suffer from the various forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis or even osteoarthritis can use curcumin supplements which helps with the pain associated with these conditions. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties have indicated great prospects for these patients.
Diabetic Use
Patients who have Diabetes Mellitus Type II have experienced great benefits with the use of curcumin supplements. In fact, studies show that curcumin may even be better at controlling diabetes related hyperglycemia than conventional medicine.
Brain Health
Curcumin supplements have shown great prospects for brain health. The ingestion of this product over a period of time has shown a delay in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, it has shown benefits for people who suffer from depression as it elevates the levels of the “feel good” hormones like serotonin in the brain.
Q) Where can I naturally get curcumin from?
There are few natural sources that contain curcumin which is why taking supplements is beneficial. Foods like curry and ginger are some of the common sources of curcumin found in nature.
Q) What effect does curcumin have on athletic performance?
Curcumin is a god sent when it comes for athletes. The extensive workouts that athletes and body builders put themselves through takes a toll on their joints and muscles. It leads to pain and inflammation experienced by these individuals. Taking curcumin after their workout helps relieve post exercise pain and displays to its anti-oxidant property. Curcumin also has wound healing properties that is great for athletes who may bruise or injure themselves.
Q) What are the possible side effects?
Curcumin is known to be safe even it higher doses. Some of the known side effects of curcumin are: nausea, diarrhea, increased risk of bleeding, increased liver function tests, hypotension (lowered blood pressure), uterine contractions in pregnant women, hyperactive gallbladder contractions and increased menstrual flow. If you experience any of these side effects after using curcumin supplements, please stop the regimen and visit a doctor.
Q) How do I chose between all the brands?
The easiest way to choose from the large number of products available is to make a list of the qualities you are looking for in your product. A look at the ingredients and the actual quantity per serving will give you a good idea of what exactly it is that you are looking for. A good idea is also to search for formulas which are suitable for vegetarians and vegans and don’t contain any allergens.
Some of the recommended products brands is our list coms with pre-formed pros and cons list that will help you narrow down your choices. Our recommendations consist of: Doctor’s Best, Genceutic Naturals, EuroPharma, Thompson, Natural Factors, California Gold Nutrition, Now Foods, Jarrow Formulas, Life Extension.
Q) When should I take these supplements?
It has been proven that the absorption of curcumin is imporved by fasting. Therefore take it on an empty stomach. however, avoid to take it before going to bed as it may cause shallow sleep.
