Curcumin, also called Turmeric comes from the root of the turmeric plant, and it has been used in Asian medicine for centuries to treat a variety of illnesses. It is the main component of curry. In recent studies, curry has been found to be effective against arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, ulcers, gallstones, and even cancer.

Although there is not complete clinical proof of the beneficial effects of the turmeric, Bharat Aggarwal of UT Houston says the evidence is growing bit by bit as research progresses with both people and animals. Dr. Aggarwal has done a tremendous amount of research into the benefits of curcumin/turmeric.  His studies strongly indicate that the turmeric found in curry can cause the genes that start the development of cancer to shut down.  He says that an initial study in humans may indicate that turmeric can help to stabilize pancreatic cancer. Dr. Aggarwal takes curcumin daily and notes: “The combined rate of the 4 most common cancers in the US—lung, prostate, breast, and colon—is at least 10 times lower in India, where curry(turmeric) is a staple in the diet.” Dr. Aggarwal

Aside from it’s benefits in preventing and treating cancer, turmeric extract is well-known as a treatment and preventative for a number of other conditions:

ARTHRITIS: Ayurvedic practitioners have always believed in the healing properties of turmeric. In fact, they have used it to treat arthritis and other inflammatory diseases for many centuries. There are actually over-the-counter supplements for arthritis that contain curcumin.

ALZHEIMER’S: In India, where curry is a staple of the diet, Alzheimer’s is about 4 times less frequently occurring than in the USA. This is according to Gregory Cole who is a researcher at UCLA. Cole’s finding suggest that the turmeric found in curry, may protect the brain from the damage that causes Alzheimer’s.

Other research supports this idea. Although there have been no clinical trials, test tube studies have shown that turmeric can break down toxic deposits of protein that are thought to cause confusion and memory loss in the brains of patient’s with Alzheimer’s. Additionally, a study conducted in Singapore comparing older men who ate significant amounts of curry with those who did not found that those who ate curry did better on memory tests.

UPSET STOMACH: Gallstone prevention/bile flow stimulant: The fact that there are fewer cases of gallstones in India than in the US may be attributable to the extensive use of turmeric. It seems that turmeric stimulates the gall bladder and encourages bile flow, thereby discouraging gallstones. Additionally, in Ayurvedic medicine, curry has been a standby for treating stomach maladies such as heartburn and indigestion. Turmeric may help treat and prevent stomach ulcers.

WEIGHT LOSS: Curry/turmeric also increases the metabolism and helps with weight loss.

Luckily, it is delicious and easy to add turmeric to your diet. You can use fresh roots or curry powder, but for the most benefit, convenience, and a milder flavor try pure turmeric powder. Turmeric is a bright, attractive yellow and has a gentle musky, earthy scent. It’s flavor is slightly bitter and pungent. You can use turmeric powder in any recipe that calls for curry, but you will find it is not quite as hot and spicy as curry. There are many good recipes to follow, and it is a great spice to have on hand in your kitchen for a number of things. It can add flavor and interest to a wide variety of food.

Here are a few simple ideas that you can use every day:

• Add a teaspoon of turmeric extract with a flavorful, natural oil or butter to your rice while it is cooking.
• Add a few dashes to V8 or tomato juice or tomato soup.
• Add turmeric to any chicken recipe for a boost of flavor.
• If you like to have a cup of warm milk before bed, try adding turmeric to taste as it is heating.

Copyright: SuzanneBennett: October 22, 2009