Have you been curious about the health benefits of curcumin but not sure where to start? This compound found in turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, and modern science is discovering more reasons to make it a staple in your life.   In today’s podcast episode, Shivani Gupta, CEO of Fusionary Formulas and a true "Curcumin Evangelist," shares her knowledge about how curcumin can help reduce inflammation, support joint health, boost brain function, and so much more. Curcumin is a versatile superfood that we could all benefit from incorporating into our diets and supplement routines—but quality and bioavailability matter. Shivani dives into tips for selecting effective curcumin supplements and how to best utilize this botanical for optimal health.   Dr. Shivani is an Ayurvedic practitioner and expert in fusing Eastern and Western practices that help our bodies achieve equilibrium. She completed her Master’s in Ayurvedic Sciences and her PhD on Turmeric. Dr. Shivani Gupta has practiced Ayurvedic medicine for over 20 years and her approach is to show you the tools in your toolkit, so you can reach for them every time you need them. She is the founder of Fusionary Formulas, an Ayurvedic company that helps people with inflammation and pain.    If you’re interested in trying Fusionary Formulas, use code NAT15 and shop here: https://fusionaryformulas.com/?afmc=NAT15    Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible: Neurohacker Collective: Visit neurohacker.com/nathalie and use code NATHALIE Vitali: Visit https://www.vitaliskincare.com/discount/Nathalie20 and use code Nathalie20 to save on your order. BEAM Minerals: Go to https://www.beamminerals.com and use code Nathalie to get 20% off your order   Find more from Dr. Shivani Gupta:  Website: www.ShivaniGupta.com 6-Week Ayurveda Immersion: https://www.FusionaryMethod.com/   Free 7-Day Inflammation Detox Challenge Find more from Nathalie: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmholC48MqRC50UffIZOMOQ  Join Nat’s Membership Community: https://www.natniddam.com/bsp-community  Sign up for Nats Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/i7d5m0  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathalieniddam/  Website: www.NatNiddam.com    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/biohackingsuperhumanperformance  What We Discuss:  (00:02) Ayurveda, Doshas, and Vibrant Health (13:25) Benefits and Science of Curcumin (21:19) Health Benefits of Curcumin (26:25) Effectiveness of Curcumin in Joint Pain (39:28) Turmeric Supplement Usage and Benefits (46:07) Curcumin Extract in Western Medicine (55:51) Functional Medicine and Plant Medicine Discussion Key Takeaways: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can be as effective as NSAIDs for issues like joint pain and arthritis, without the negative side effects. Curcumin may also benefit brain health, metabolic health, and the immune system. To get therapeutic benefits, it's best to take curcumin in supplement form rather than just using turmeric in cooking. The supplement should contain an extract that concentrates the curcuminoids. Absorption is enhanced by including black pepper extract (piperine) and healthy fats.