Curcuminoids, or more commonly curcumin, is the primary ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin is a strong antioxidant with very powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is an important function that helps fight infection and keep your body safe. Although it’s essential in the short-term, prolonged inflammation can be a problem. This is called “chronic inflammation,’ and it can lead to many deadly diseases, such as heart disease, strokes, heart failure, and more.