Oral supplementation of turmeric decreases proteinuria, hematuria, and systolic blood pressure in patients suffering from relapsing or refractory lupus nephritis: a randomized and placebo-controlled study
Khajehdehi P, et al
Published in Journal of Renal Nutrition
Methodology
Randomised placebo-controlled study at a single lupus clinic; 500 mg turmeric (22.1 mg curcumin) with each meal versus identical starch capsules for 3 months; proteinuria, haematuria and blood pressure measured monthly.
Key Findings
24 patients with relapsing or refractory biopsy-proven lupus nephritis were randomised to turmeric capsules (500 mg turmeric containing 22.1 mg curcumin, three times daily; n = 12) or identical starch placebo (n = 12) for 3 months. Proteinuria fell significantly in the turmeric group, from 954.2 +/- 836.6 at baseline to 448.8 +/- 633.5, 235.9 +/- 290.1 and 260.9 +/- 106.2 at months 1, 2 and 3. Systolic blood pressure and haematuria also fell significantly with turmeric, while placebo produced no significant change in any measure and no turmeric-related adverse effects were seen.
Conclusions
Short-term turmeric supplementation can decrease proteinuria, hematuria, and systolic blood pressure in patients suffering from relapsing or refractory lupus nephritis.
Limitations
Only 24 patients at a single centre over 3 months, with results reported mainly as within-group changes rather than between-group comparisons; the curcumin dose was low and long-term kidney outcomes were not assessed.
Supplements Studied
Short-term turmeric supplementation can decrease proteinuria, hematuria, and systolic blood pressure in patients suffering from relapsing or refractory lupus nephritis.
Short-term turmeric supplementation can decrease proteinuria, hematuria, and systolic blood pressure in patients suffering from relapsing or refractory lupus nephritis.
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Study Details
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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.