Curcumin-piperine supplementation modulates inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiometabolic risk: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Abstract
Background: Although curcumin has well-established anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, its low bioavailability limits its therapeutic applicability. Piperine improves systemic exposure and absorption of curcumin. This systematic study aimed to examine the effectiveness and safety of curcumin-piperine supplementation in relation to inflammatory, metabolic, cardiovascular, autoimmune, infectious, and pulmonary disorders.
Methods: From 2026, a comprehensive search of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted across the main electronic databases. Studies that assessed oral curcumin in combination with piperine and reported results related to oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolism, cardiovascular disease, or clinical symptoms were considered eligible. Using accepted methodological standards, the risk of bias was evaluated.
Results: There were 20 RCTs with sample sizes ranging from 8 to 117 individuals and durations ranging from 1 to 12 weeks. Doses of piperine (5-15 mg/day) and curcumin (500-1,500 mg/day) varied. Fifteen out of twenty trials indicated significant decreases in inflammatory biomarkers [C-reactive protein (CRP), high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6)]. Of 15 studies evaluating these outcomes, 12 showed improvements in oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Supplementation dramatically decreased fasting blood glucose (FBS), glycated haemoglobin…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 8 participants or records.
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