Anti-Inflammation & Antioxidants
Curcumin (with Bioperine / Phytosome)
Also known as: Diferuloylmethane · Meriva · Theracurmin · BCM-95 · Longvida
The active polyphenol of turmeric with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Absorption is the central challenge — must be paired with piperine or in a specialised delivery form.
Effective Dose
500–1000mg / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Moderate
Anti-Inflammation & Antioxidants
Mechanism
NF-κB inhibition, COX-2 suppression, Nrf2 activation
primary action
Best For
Joint inflammation
Recovery, Brain health, Gut health
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Curcumin (with Bioperine / Phytosome)?
Curcumin makes up only 2–5% of turmeric by weight and is notoriously poorly absorbed — standard curcumin has <1% oral bioavailability due to poor solubility and rapid metabolism. Enhanced formulations (Meriva phospholipid complex, Theracurmin nanoparticles, BCM-95, Longvida SLCP, bioperine-enhanced) increase bioavailability 20–2000×.
How It Works: The Science
Curcumin inhibits NF-κB (the master regulator of inflammatory gene expression), directly inhibits COX-2 (prostaglandin synthesis), and activates Nrf2 (upregulating antioxidant enzymes including HO-1, NQO1, glutathione). It also inhibits STAT3 signalling and reduces TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 production.
Primary Mechanism
NF-κB inhibition, COX-2 suppression, Nrf2 activation
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
500–1000mg / day
500–1000mg high-bioavailability curcumin daily. Meriva or phytosome: 500mg = ~2g standard curcumin. Bioperine-enhanced (95% curcuminoids + 5mg piperine): 1g, twice daily with meals. Avoid standard turmeric powder for therapeutic effects.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Excellent safety profile. High doses may cause GI discomfort. May have anticoagulant effects — caution with blood thinners. May interfere with certain chemotherapy drugs — inform oncologist.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Excellent for athletes with joint pain, older adults with OA, and those wanting a natural anti-inflammatory. Choose enhanced bioavailability forms only — standard turmeric is ineffective at supplement doses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →