As the agent that adds the bright and unmistakable hue to both mustard and curry, turmeric is known for its spice and color and now for its many health benefits too. For centuries, turmeric has been noted for its digestive, liver and heart health benefits but is just now understood to be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. 

Though Western medicine professionals may be relatively new to the concept, both Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine techniques have treated both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis with turmeric for centuries. By blocking inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, the key element in turmeric, curcumin helps to reduce the pain of arthritis in both intensity and frequency of occurrence. In some studies, the use of curcumin worked better to prevent joint inflammation in study participants better than some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Curcumin, found in varying amounts in turmeric powder, should be ingested daily for the best results. 

High doses of turmeric have been shown to cause stomach upset and may act as a blood thinner. Consult your doctor before beginning any health regimen, especially if you have existing health concerns that may be exacerbated by certain organic compounds.