What is Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva? Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva is a potent antioxidant that protects cells and tissues by fighting free radicals. It is also proven to support healthy joint function, eye health and small vessel circulatory health. The curcumin is extracted from turmeric and delivers a curcumin complex including curcumin, bisdemethoxy curcumin and demethoxy curcumin. Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva is produced using the patented Phytosome technology which enhances the absorption of these curcumins. How does it work? Extensive research over the past quarter-century suggests that curcumin can help counter toxins, as well as influencing cell survival through other means. The curcumins are poorly absorbed. The Phytosome technology helps enhance bioavailability. The technology binds each curcumin molecule with one or more molecules of the nutrient PC (phosphatidylcholine), to make molecular complexes called phytosomes. Curcumin molecules in the Meriva phytosome complexes are more stable against breakdown, and mix far better into water, so that they are better absorbed when taken orally. The PC molecules in the phytosomes serve as a “delivery vehicle” or “chaperone” that not only chemically protects the curcumin molecules, but also markedly increases their absorption because PC itself is well absorbed when taken orally. A human absorption study found that the curcumins were better absorbed when taken as Meriva phytosomes, compared to their basic molecular forms. Why should I take Doctor’s Best Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva? The numerous beneficial effects attributed to turmeric root are related to the antioxidant properties of the curcumins it contains. This antioxidant activity can neutralize free radicals that threaten the integrity of cellular structures. Free radicals can cause “oxidative stress,” a process that can trigger cell damage. And oxidative stress is thought to play a role in a variety of diseases. The curcumins are poorly absorbed when taken by mouth and this limits their biological action. The Phytosome technology used with Curcumin Phytosome with Meriva creates phytosome complexes that are proven to be absorbed better.