Skip to content
Back to Systemic Inflammation

ingestible · for systemic inflammation

Curcumin (Bioavailable Extract)

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Tabrizi et al. (2019) systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 RCTs (n=1,520) published in Nutrition Journal found that curcumin supplementation produced a statistically significant reduction in plasma CRP (weighted mean difference -1.06 mg/L, 95% CI -1.47 to -0.65) and IL-6 across all included trial populations (PMID 30497843).$20-45/month for a bioavailable formulation at therapeutic dose

How to use

Take 500-1,000 mg of curcumin extract (standardised to 95% curcuminoids) twice daily with meals. Curcumin alone is poorly absorbed - choose formulations with enhanced bioavailability: piperine (BioPerine), phytosome complexes (Meriva), or lipid nanoparticles (Longvida). Allow 8-12 weeks for CRP to fall measurably.

How it works

Curcumin suppresses the NF-kB transcription factor and inhibits IKK-beta, blocking downstream production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including CRP, IL-1beta, IL-6, and TNF-alpha. It also activates Nrf2, the master regulator of antioxidant defenses, reducing the oxidative stress that drives chronic low-grade inflammation.

Where to buy

Thorne Meriva-SF (phytosome), Life Extension Super Bio-Curcumin (BCM-95), Jarrow Formulas CurcuminRich (Longvida), and Doctor's Best Curcumin with BioPerine are well-evidenced bioavailable products available on iHerb, Amazon, and supplement retailers.

Typical cost: $20-45/month for a bioavailable formulation at therapeutic dose

Safety notes

High doses (above 8 g/day raw curcumin) may cause gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and diarrhea. Interacts with blood thinners (warfarin, heparin, aspirin) and antiplatelet drugs - consult a doctor before use if on these medications. Piperine in BioPerine formulations significantly increases absorption of many drugs (including cyclosporine and some chemotherapy agents); space dosing 2 hours from other medications. Avoid at supplemental doses during pregnancy. May lower blood sugar - monitor if diabetic.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Tabrizi et al., Nutr J 2019

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.