Joint and Muscle Comfort

Curcumin (from turmeric) is a potent anti-inflammatory

• Inhibits key inflammatory enzymes and pathways:
  
  • COX-2: the same enzyme targeted by NSAIDs like ibuprofen
    
  • NF-κB: a transcription factor that turns on inflammatory genes (like TNF-α, IL-1β)
    
• Reduces pain and swelling in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis models
• Slows cartilage degradation and may preserve joint function over time

In a 2014 clinical trial (Phytotherapy Research), 500 mg of curcumin daily was as effective as 50 mg of diclofenac (a prescription anti-inflammatory) in reducing arthritis symptoms—but with fewer side effects.

Gingerol (from ginger) supports pain relief and recovery

• Reduces prostaglandins (inflammatory chemicals that cause soreness)
  
• Eases muscle pain and stiffness, especially post-exercise
  
• May reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) when taken daily
  

One study in the Journal of Pain (2010) showed daily ginger supplementation reduced exercise-induced muscle pain by up to 25%.

Ritual Cubes are formulated for absorption

• Piperine (black pepper) increases curcumin absorption by 2000%
  
• Extra virgin olive oil helps absorb curcumin and gingerol, both of which are fat-soluble
• Frozen raw root preparation retains more bioactive compounds than dried or pasteurised shots

Summary

The anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin and gingerol are well-documented and mechanistically clear:

• They reduce inflammatory enzyme activity
  
• Block inflammatory signalling molecules
  
• Support joint comfort and muscle recovery