Pilot Study Investigating the Effects of Curcumin-Piperine Supplementation on Inflammation and Functional Recovery in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background Inflammation is important in worsening brain damage following acute ischemic stroke. Curcumin, the primary active compound in turmeric, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but has limited absorption in the body. Combining curcumin with piperine (from black pepper) can improve its bioavailability. This study aimed to evaluate whether curcumin-piperine supplementation could improve recovery outcomes and reduce inflammation in patients with AIS during the rehabilitation phase. Methods A prospective Case-Control study was conducted between June 2024 and June 2025. A total of 196 stroke patients aged 18–80 years completed the study (94 received curcumin-piperine, 102 received placebo). The intervention group was given one tablet daily for 12 weeks, 500 mg of curcumin and 5 mg of piperine, alongside standard treatment. Stroke severity and recovery were measured via the National Institutes of Health NIH Stroke Scale alongside the modified Rankin scale. Blood samples were analyzed for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation. Results Both groups had similar baseline characteristics. The Curcumin-piperine was well tolerated with no reported side effects. In contrast to the group given a placebo, the intervention group displayed greater improvements in neurological function (lower NIHSS and mRS scores) and a significant decrease in hs-CRP levels over a 12-week period. Conclusion Daily supplementation with curcumin-piperine for three months was safe and enhanced recovery while lowering inflammation in patients with ischemic stroke. These findings suggest that curcumin-piperine may be a beneficial adjunct to standard stroke therapy, although larger trials are needed to confirm its long-term effects.