In arthritic diseases, free radicals are responsible for painful, swollen and stiff joints. Due to turmeric’s antioxidant properties, free radicals which cause damage to healthy cells and cell membranes, are neutralized, in it’s turn reducing inflammation. In a clinical study where curcumin was tested on patients with rheumatoid arthritis, improvements such as reduced joint swelling, less morning stiffness and lengthened walking time were noted.