In the U.S., turmeric is mainly known as a spice and curcumin is rarely heard of. Surprisingly, these two things aren’t only related, but curcumin is a substance that comes from turmeric. It may be a bit confusing at first distinguishing the two, but turmeric tends to be orange while curcumin is usually yellow. Although the two aren’t exactly the same, they are incredibly similar and since curcumin originates from turmeric many people just refer to both of them as “turmeric.”

Turmeric has a very warm, yet bitter taste, and is known for people using it to flavor or color curry powders, mustards, butters, and cheeses. However, the root of turmeric is widely used around the world to make medicine used for arthritis, heartburn, joint pain, stomach, and much more. Some people apply turmeric to their skin for pain, ringworms, sprains, or swellings. Also, the essential oil of turmeric (Read about essential oils here!) is used in perfumes.

 

Curcumin, on the other hand, is the prized extract found within turmeric. Only making up 2-5% of turmeric, people often have to go out and buy an extract to experience the benefits of curcumin. One option is the CuraMed formula from the Terry Naturally brand. This formula contains a blend of ingredients that support a healthy immune system and inflammation response. Curcumin (BCM-95) is included, as well as phospholipids and turmeric essential oil.

Recently, I’ve been staying up late nights studying for my General Chemistry I Rice University summer class, which usually causes aching joint pain in my wrists from writing as well as joint pain in my ankles (I usually sit criss cross when I study). So, I’m definitely going to look into curcumin options for some relief!