Effect of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Supplementation on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients with Hypovitamin D Which Were Given Vitamin D(3) 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 D(3) is expected to work synergistically. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of Curcuma xanthorrhiza supplementation on vitamin D(3) 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 D(3) had no effects on SLEDAI and serum levels of IL-6 and TGF-β1. This clinical trial is registered with NCT03155477.