These are different from the capsules I have taken from other brands. These are gel caps and the curcumin is blended with MCT and olive oil. I like that they are shaped long and narrow and they are easier to swallow than my Omega3 pills. I already take MCT in my coffee, and I take an Omega3, so I don't really need to have this particular blend. However, I know there are some people who wouldn't already be taking those, and they help with absorption. So I get why they blend that in. I thought there was a bitter taste on the outside of the pill once or twice, but I don't really notice that anymore. I haven't noticed any improvement in my aches and pains, but I take turmeric for more benefits than only that, and other brands haven't offered that relief either. These are pricey compared with other supplements I have taken. But I do appreciate that they are manufactured in the US.