ABSTRACT

The increasing emphasis on integrative approaches to sports medicine has highlighted the therapeutic potential of traditional remedies such as Guggulu (Commiphora mukul) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa). This review systematically evaluates their role in mitigating sports-induced inflammation and supporting athlete recovery. Using PRISMA-2020 guidelines, peer-reviewed trials and clinical studies were identified from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar between 2016 and 2025. Out of 617 retrieved records, 21 studies met eligibility criteria. Findings reveal that curcumin, the principal compound of turmeric, demonstrates strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties by downregulating NF-?B and pro-inflammatory cytokines while enhancing endogenous defense systems. These mechanisms are linked to reduced muscle soreness, lower biochemical markers of damage, and improved psychological resilience. Guggulu, rich in guggulsterones, complements these actions through COX and LOX inhibition, antioxidant modulation, and systemic recoverysupport, particularly in lipid metabolism and oxidative balance. Together, they offer synergistic benefits for managing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), enhancing muscle regeneration, and promoting overall recovery in athletes. By bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary evidence, Guggulu and Turmeric may provide safe, natural alternatives to conventional recovery strategies in sports medicine. Keywords: Guggulu, Turmeric, Curcumin, Sports-Induced Inflammation, Athlete Recovery, Integrative Sports Medicine
Publication date: 01/08/2026

https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/August/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10369.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.8.10369