Effect of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Supplementation on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients with Hypovitamin D Which Were Given Vitamin D3 towards Disease Activity (SLEDAI), IL-6, and TGF-β1 Serum

Background Curcumin contained in Curcuma xanthorrhiza is an immunomodulator that has similar biological effect as vitamin D. Combination of curcumin and vitamin D3 is expected to work synergistically. Objective To determine the effect of Curcuma xanthorrhiza supplementation on vitamin D3 administration to SLEDAI, IL-6, and TGF-β1 serum in SLE patients with hypovitamin D. Methods This was a double-blind RCT conducted in Saiful Anwar Hospital, Malang, in January 2016-March 2017. Subjects were SLE active (SLEDAI > 3) with levels of 25(OH)D3 ≤ 30 ng/ml and divided into two groups: those receiving cholecalciferol 3 × 400 IU and placebo 3 × 1 tablets (group I) and those receiving 3 × 400 IU cholecalciferol and Curcuma xanthorrhiza 3 × 20 mg for 3 months (group II). SLEDAI, levels of vitamin D, IL-6, and TGF-β1 in serum were evaluated before and after the treatment. Results There were no significant differences in SLEDAI reduction, decreased serum levels of IL-6, and increased levels of TGF-β1 serum among groups after the treatment. Decreased levels of serum IL-6 have a positive correlation with SLEDAI reduction. Conclusion. Curcuma xanthorrhiza supplementation on vitamin D3 had no effects on SLEDAI and serum levels of IL-6 and TGF-β1. This clinical trial is registered with NCT03155477.