Evidence supporting the use of: Turmeric
For the health condition: Cramps and Spasms

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for managing a variety of ailments, including those related to muscle pain, cramps, and spasms. Its traditional application for these conditions is largely attributed to its perceived anti-inflammatory and warming properties, which were thought to ease discomfort and support muscle relaxation. Turmeric contains the active compound curcumin, which is now known to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, most of the traditional use for cramps and spasms relied on whole turmeric or its extracts as poultices, teas, or in food. From a scientific perspective, while there is some evidence that curcumin can reduce general inflammation and pain—potentially offering indirect relief from muscle discomfort—direct research on turmeric specifically for muscle cramps and spasms is sparse. A few small studies and animal models suggest that curcumin may help reduce muscle damage and exercise-induced pain, but these effects are not robustly documented for acute muscle cramps or spasms. Therefore, while turmeric is traditionally used for such conditions, high-quality clinical trials specifically supporting its effectiveness for muscle cramps or spasms are lacking. As a result, the evidence rating for its use in this context is modest, primarily rooted in tradition rather than solid scientific validation.

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Other health conditions supported by turmeric

Abdominal Pain
Abrasions
Acid Indigestion
Acne
Adenitis
Afterbirth Pain
Age Spots
Aging (prevention)
Allergies (food)
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Anal Fistula or Fissure
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Cartilage Damage
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Convalescence
Convulsions
Corns
Cough (damp)
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Cradle Cap
Cramps (menstrual)
Cramps and Spasms
Crohn's Disease
Cuts
Cystic Breast Disease
Cysts
Dandruff
Debility
Dementia
Denture Sores
Depression
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diaper Rash
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Diphtheria
Dislocation
Diverticulitis
Duodenal Ulcers
Dyspepsia
Endometriosis
Enteritis
Epstein Barr Virus
Eye Infections
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Fat Metabolism (poor)
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PMS Type P
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Blood Clots (prevention of)
Blood in Stool
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Edema
Fatigue