Curcumin vs. Turmeric Explained

What Is the Difference Between Curcumin and Turmeric?

Turmeric is a spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant and is commonly used in Indian cooking. Dried turmeric is often sold in jars but can be purchased fresh as turmeric root, which looks similar to ginger root but has a more intense golden yellow color. 

Turmeric contains several plant substances and curcuminoids. Curcumin is one of these bioactive compounds found within turmeric. It is responsible for the spice's intense color and is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin is a part of turmeric but contains a broader range of plant compounds beyond curcumin.

Both curcumin and turmeric offer unique health benefits when consumed regularly. As a whole, spice, turmeric and turmeric supplements contribute not only curcumin but also other bioactive compounds that may benefit health. On the other hand, curcumin supplements provide a concentrated dose of this specific compound, making it easier to receive the health benefits specific to this phytochemical. 

Curcumin vs. Turmeric: Benefits

Both curcumin and Turmeric have medicinal properties that may provide several health benefits and improve wellness:

• Osteoarthritis Symptoms Relief: Double-blind, randomized controlled trials have shown compounds in turmeric, including curcumin, can reduce markers of inflammation and relieve painful symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.^{1, 9}‍
• May Help Regulate Body Fat: Turmeric and curcumin may inhibit the inflammatory pathway involved in obesity and may help regulate body fat.²‍
• Reduce Harmful Oxidative Stress: The anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant compounds found in turmeric can help fight free radicals, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Inflammation and oxidative stress are known risk factors for heart disease and abnormal cholesterol levels.³‍
• Improve Blood Sugar Metabolism: Turmeric and curcumin can improve blood sugar metabolism and potentially reduce the effects of diabetes on your body.⁴‍
• Boost Fungal Medication: Turmeric and curcumin can disrupt fungal cell membranes and could be used in conjunction with fungal medication for better outcomes.^{5, 6}‍
• Reduce the Development of Bacteria That Might Cause Diseases: Turmeric and curcumin have strong antibacterial effects. They can reduce the growth of many disease-causing bacteria.⁶‍
• Might Reduce the Activity of Cancerous Cells: Though research is still in its early stages, turmeric and curcumin may reduce the activity of colon and other cancer cells. Some studies suggest that curcumin may prevent tumor growth in breast cancer.^7,10

Which Is Better: Turmeric or Curcumin?

There has yet to be a clear consensus on whether turmeric or curcumin is better. Most studies that have shown beneficial effects have used extracted turmeric with a high concentration of curcumin or curcumin alone.

Turmeric contains curcumin and various other bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. However, curcumin supplements provide a concentrated dose of this specific compound, which may be particularly beneficial for targeted health goals.

Research shows that the phytochemical curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, increasing its potential to improve health concerns that involve inflammation.^{2, 3, 4}

The one you should choose depends on the benefits you hope to gain and the symptoms or ailments you hope to treat.

Turmeric contains several plant compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities that work better together. 

Curcumin’s potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects may benefit people with diabetes and osteoporosis, but its absorption can be poor. Combining curcumin with piperine in black pepper can significantly improve absorption.

When buying supplements, it’s important to look for a formula that has been clinically tested and proven to be well absorbed. 

Nutrition

While turmeric and curcumin supplements can benefit health, their nutritional makeup differs slightly.

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Turmeric is a more complete form of curcumin, providing more nutrients than curcumin. 

Glycemic Index

The glycemic index (GI) provides information about how certain foods affect blood glucose. Both turmeric and curcumin have minimal carbohydrates, which results in a negligible effect on blood sugar. Curcumin, being an isolated compound, generally has a low glycemic index, meaning it has a minimal impact on blood sugar. Turmeric, in its natural form, also exhibits a low GI.

Vitamins

Turmeric contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin K, and folate, while curcumin contains only vitamin B6. Below is the vitamin content found in 2 tbsp of curcumin vs. turmeric: