Effect of curcumin on proinflammatory cytokines: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

It has been suggested that curcumin has the potential for lowering inflammation. In the current meta-analysis, we attempted to clarify the efficacy of curcumin/turmeric supplementation in reducing concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in patients with an inflammatory background. The main databases were searched to identify eligible trials evaluating the effect of curcumin in reducing IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-alpha in serum up to March 2021. The effect sizes for weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Overall, 32 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. There was a significant decrease in the serum levels of IL-1 (WMD =-2.33 pg/ml, 95% CI =-3.33 to-1.34, P < 0.001) and TNF-alpha (WMD =-1.61 pg/ml, 95% CI =-2.72,-0.51, P < 0.001) compared to the placebo group following treatment. Nonetheless, curcumin/turmeric supplementation was non-significantly associated with reduced levels of IL-6 (WMD =-0.33 pg/ml, 95% CI = -0.99-0.34, P = 0.33) and increased levels of IL-8 (WMD = 0.52 pg/ml, 95% CI = -1.13-2.17, P = 0.53). The dose-responses analysis indicated that curcumin/turmeric sup-plementation resulted in IL-1 and IL-8 alteration in a non-linear model. Subgroup analysis according to duration and dose of treatment and target population revealed diverse outcomes. Curcumin could have a beneficial effect in reducing the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1 and TNF-alpha, but not IL-6 and IL-8 levels.

Automated summary

Curcumin may reduce levels of IL-1 and TNF-alpha in serum, but has no significant effect on IL-6 and IL-8 levels. The efficacy of curcumin supplementation appears to vary depending on factors such as dose, treatment duration, and target population.