Curcumin Versus Ibuprofen for Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Physically Active Women

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) following eccentric exercise is characterized by structural disruption of skeletal muscle fibers accompanied by transient inflammation, oxidative stress, delayed-onset muscle soreness, and impaired physical performance. Although these responses are considered part of the normal adaptive process, excessive muscle damage may delay recovery and impair subsequent training or competition.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used by athletes to reduce post-exercise pain and inflammation. However, repeated NSAID use has been associated with gastrointestinal, renal, and cardiovascular adverse effects, highlighting the need for safe nutritional alternatives capable of supporting recovery without interfering with physiological adaptation.

Curcumin, the principal bioactive polyphenol derived from Curcuma longa, exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties through modulation of multiple molecular pathways involved in redox homeostasis and inflammatory signaling. Experimental and clinical studies suggest that curcumin may attenuate exercise-induced muscle damage by reducing oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and muscle soreness, although evidence remains inconsistent and direct comparisons with NSAIDs are scarce.

The objective of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial is to compare the efficacy of oral curcumin supplementation with ibuprofen and placebo in physically active women following eccentric exercise. The study evaluates clinical recovery, physical performance, biomarkers of muscle damage, inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers, and additional health-related biomarkers in order to characterize the physiological effects of curcumin supplementation and determine its potential role as a nutritional strategy for exercise recovery.

Inclusion criteria

Healthy physically active women. Age within the predefined study range. Regular participation in physical activity for at least 6 months before enrollment.

Ability to perform the eccentric exercise protocol. Written informed consent provided before participation.

Exclusion criteria

Current musculoskeletal injury or pain affecting exercise performance. History of cardiovascular, metabolic, neurological, renal, hepatic, or inflammatory disease.

Pregnancy or breastfeeding. Current use of anti-inflammatory drugs, antioxidant supplements, or other nutritional supplements that could interfere with study outcomes.

Known allergy or intolerance to curcumin, turmeric, ibuprofen, or study ingredients.

Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. Participation in another clinical trial during the study period. Any condition considered by the investigators to compromise participant safety or protocol compliance.