The Effect of Curcumin on Postmenopausal Symptoms: A Systematic Review Based on Randomized Controlled Trials

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #curcumin #female #randomized-controlled-trials-as-topic #postmenopause

The Effect of Curcumin on Postmenopausal Symptoms: A Systematic Review Based on Randomized Controlled Trials

Akyakar et al., 2025 | Int J Mol Sci | Systematic Review

Citation

Akyakar Buket, Şahin İrem Nur, ... Budán Ferenc. The Effect of Curcumin on Postmenopausal Symptoms: A Systematic Review Based on Randomized Controlled Trials. Int J Mol Sci. 2025-Aug-26;26(17). doi:10.3390/ijms26178260

Abstract

Menopause is a natural and inevitable part of life for women, leading to many physical and psychological changes accompanied by declining estrogen levels. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of curcumin, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, on postmenopausal outcomes in women. This comprehensive analysis of RCTs (randomized controlled trials) published in the last decade was selected through a search of PubMed, Wiley, Scopus, and Web of Science (PROSPERO Identifier: CRD42024549735). Study selection and data extraction were performed using exclusion and inclusion criteria according to the PICOS framework (P: Population, I: Intervention, C: Comparison, O: Outcomes, S: Study designs). Of the twelve studies that met the criteria, 11 had a low-risk bias, but reports were conflicting on serum estradiol levels, bone density markers, and vasomotor symptoms; no significant effects on physical, psychological, or sexual functions were observed. For cardiometabolic biomarkers, short-term curcumin intake showed no significant effects, while long-term interventions using bioavailable forms of curcumin showed improvements in serum fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance), and lipid parameters. There are a limited number of studies examining the effect of curcumin intake on menopause-related outcomes. While overdose has been observed in some studies attempting to restore estradiol levels, no significant effects have been observed. However, curcumin intake impacts postmenopausal symptoms (e.g., improving symptoms of osteoporosis) through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Different forms and doses, combinations, and durations of interventions may influence outcomes. Better-designed studies are needed to understand the potential effects of curcumin intake during menopause.

Key Findings

Better-designed studies are needed to understand the potential effects of curcumin intake during menopause.

Outcomes Measured

  • inflammatory markers

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Curcumin
  • Female
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Postmenopause
  • Antioxidants

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: curcumin

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09