Benefits of Tumeric
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Asian cooking. It is recognized for its golden color and warm, tart taste. In the United States, turmeric is sold as a dietary supplement. According to the American Cancer Society, animal and laboratory studies have determined that curcumin (an antioxidant that is an active ingredient in turmeric) shows some anticancer properties.
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Anti-Inflammatory
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In the U.S., herbal turmeric is publicized primarily as an anti-inflammatory remedy. Turmeric is taken by mouth in powder form or in capsules, teas or liquid extracts. According to the American Cancer Society, turmeric is advocated by some as a treatment for rheumatism and as an antiseptic for disinfecting wounds. Some believe turmeric interferes with the replication of serious viruses such as hepatitis and HIV.
Cancer Fighter
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Laboratory studies conducted by the ACS have shown that curcumin obstructs several important molecular corridors that are associated with the development, growth and spread of cancer. The ACS says some researchers think turmeric may have the potential to work particularly well in thwarting and retarding the growth of cancers of the esophagus, mouth, intestines, stomach, breast and skin.
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Human Studies in Early Stages
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The ACS points out that human studies of curcumin in cancer prevention and treatment are in the very early stages. One study of 15 colorectal cancer patients found that while curcumin does not generally absorb well into the body, it managed to absorb into the colon lining and into cancerous tissue in the colon.
Other Disorders
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The American Cancer Society says studies are underway to see if curcumin can help fight other diseases and conditions such as arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, stomach ulcers and high cholesterol.
The National Institute of Health's National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine says turmeric has been used to aid digestion and liver function and regulate menstruation. Turmeric has also been made into a paste that is applied topically to treat eczema.
Kidney Transplants
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Rresearch is ongoing as to whether turmeric may brighten the outlook for kidney transplant recipients. The ACS says a small study of curcumin and of another antioxidant called quercetin was done in adult kidney transplant recipients. Those who consumed high dosages of both antioxidants had fewer transplant rejections than those who received lower doses or none at all.
Further Research
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The NCCAM says that due to the sparseness of clinical trials there is not enough reliable evidence to support the use of turmeric for any health condition. Research funded the by NCCAM is investigating the active chemicals in turmeric to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how it might be used in the prevention and treatment of illnesses.
Precautions
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The use of turmeric is believed to be safe for most adults. However, people with gallbladder disease should not use turmeric because it may aggravate the condition. Taking large doses by mouth may cause stomach pain, gas, indigestion and nausea. High doses of turmeric have caused liver problems in animals, but no such issues have been reported in humans.
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