The Remarkable Power of Tumeric

Courtesy of Our Health Co-op

The Remarkable Power of Turmeric

You've likely seen the deep yellow spice, tasted it in many Asian and Indian-style dishes, or used it yourself (who knew it came from the root of a leafy green plant). But if you're like many, the remarkable power of turmeric as a health supplement is exciting news. Why is this traditional spice gaining so much attention, you may ask? Well, the active constituent is known as curcumin and it has been shown to have a wide range of therapeutic actions.

First, it protects against free radical damage because it is a strong antioxidant.

Second, it reduces inflammation by lowering histamine levels and possibly by increasing production of natural cortisone by the adrenal glands.

Third, it protects the liver from a number of toxic compounds

Fourth, it has been shown to reduce platelets from clumping together, which in turn improves circulation and may help protect against atherosclerosis.

There are also test-tube and animal studies showing a cancer-preventing action of curcumin. In one of these studies, curcumin effectively inhibited metastasis (uncontrolled spread) of melanoma (skin cancer) cells. This may be due to its antioxidant activity in the body. Curcumin inhibits HIV in test tubes, though human trials are needed to determine if it has any usefulness for treating humans with this condition.

A preliminary trial in people with rheumatoid arthritis found curcumin to be useful for reducing inflammation and such symptoms as pain and stiffness. A separate double-blind trial found that curcumin was superior to the placebo or the NSAID phenylbutazone for alleviating post-surgical inflammation.

Preliminary research indicates a possible benefit of oral curcumin supplementation (375 mg of turmeric extract with 95% curcuminoids three times daily for 12 weeks) for chronic anterior uveitis (inflammation of the iris and middle coat of the eyeball).