Turmeric is a mild, yellow-orange colored spice used in many dishes, especially curries. Turmeric root extract is made from turmeric and contains a concentrated amount of its active compound, curcumin. Research has linked curcumin with potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and protection against cancer. While such findings are promising, there still remains much to understand about turmeric root extract before making specific recommendations regarding its use as a supplement. As with any herb, consult a qualified health care professional before using turmeric root extract as a supplement.
Inflammation
According to MedlinePlus, laboratory and animal studies show anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric and its constituent curcumin. Furthermore, WHFoods notes that studies have shown curcumin to be beneficial in treating inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Use of turmeric root extract as an anti-inflammatory agent could avoid the many side effects associated with conventional drug therapy such as the development of gastric ulcers.
Cancer
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that turmeric is an antioxidant. And its antioxidant properties may protect against cancer by reducing free radicals in the body. The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin are also involved in its mechanism of cancer protection. There is a strong relationship between inflammation and cancer, and as such, turmeric root extract may help prevent cancer development, as well as inhibit cancer growth through anti-inflammatory pathways. The University of Maryland Medical Center also notes that turmeric may help to prevent, slow or destroy cancers of the prostate, breast, skin, and colon. More research is needed to confirm this.
Other Benefits
Turmeric root extract may help prevent the development of heart disease by decreasing cholesterol oxidation and increasing the removal of cholesterol from the body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Turmeric root extract may also improve liver functioning and reduce the risk of developing gallstones. WHFoods states that some studies link turmeric root extract to the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. However, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, “There is little reliable evidence to support the use of turmeric for any health condition because few clinical trials have been conducted.”
Supplement Safety
Turmeric is safe to use as a spice added to food, though some caution should be taken when using turmeric root extract supplements. Always purchase supplements from a trustworthy source to ensure you are receiving a high-quality product. Low-quality supplements may contain inconsistent amounts of the active ingredients, or may even contain contaminants. Look for turmeric root extract supplements that are standardized to contain a specific amount of curcumin.
Side Effects
There are few known side effects of turmeric root extract supplements, though high doses may cause stomach pain and indigestion, according to MedlinePlus. There is limited data on the long-term effects of turmeric root extract supplementation. Individuals with gallbladder disease are advised against taking turmeric root extract due to potential complications.
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