Synopsis

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

Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric (Curcuma longa), has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for various ailments, including infections. In recent decades, there is growing scientific interest in its potential antiviral properties. Laboratory (in vitro) studies have shown that curcumin exhibits inhibitory effects against a range of viruses, such as influenza, hepatitis viruses, herpes simplex virus, and even SARS-CoV-2, by interfering with viral entry, replication, and modulation of cellular signaling pathways involved in inflammation and immune responses. Curcumin's potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may also help mitigate the severity of viral infections by reducing cytokine storm and oxidative stress.

However, the majority of evidence for curcumin's antiviral effects comes from cell culture and animal studies. Human clinical trials specifically investigating curcumin for the treatment or prevention of viral infections are limited and often suffer from small sample sizes, lack of blinding, or low bioavailability of curcumin when taken orally. Some preliminary clinical studies suggest curcumin may help with viral infections such as COVID-19 or chronic hepatitis, but the results are not conclusive. Therefore, while there is a scientific basis and some promising data, robust clinical evidence is lacking, and curcumin should not be considered a primary treatment for viral infections without further research.

More about curcumin
More about Infection (viral)

Other ingredients used for Infection (viral)

Other health conditions supported by curcumin

Products containing curcumin

Nature's Sunshine Turmeric Curcumin (Formerly CurcuminBP)