What the NIH says, in plain language.
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Turmeric, boswellia and ginger show up in many joint supplements. Here is a plain-language look at what the U.S. National Institutes of Health says about them.
The NIH’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says we do not yet know enough to be sure whether turmeric or curcumin helps with any health purpose. It also notes that a 2021 review of 10 studies with 1,287 people found that turmeric may help knee osteoarthritis pain and function about as much as some common anti-inflammatory medicines. Turmeric is generally considered safe when taken by mouth, but liver problems have been reported in some people who used highly absorbable formulas, and supplements may be unsafe in pregnancy.
Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) is an herbal extract from tree resin. NCCIH says a few herbs, including boswellia and ginger, may have modest benefits for osteoarthritis symptoms, but the overall evidence is weak. Little is known about the long-term safety of many herbal products used for joint symptoms.
Ginger is also listed among the herbs that may have modest benefits for osteoarthritis symptoms, again with weak overall evidence. People who take blood thinners or medicines for diabetes should ask a doctor before using ginger supplements.
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