Curcumin is the main active ingredient in the spice turmeric. It is a curcuminoid, a type of polyphenol that gives turmeric its yellow color, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. It has been used medicinally for centuries. Although the effect of curcumin in the body has been studied, exactly how it works and what its effects are is not entirely known. Consult with your medical professional to ensure that you understand all the potential risks and benefits before using curcumin to improve your health.
Cancer
Curcumin may have anti-cancer properties, with some studies showing it may treat and prevent breast, colon and skin cancer, according to MedlinePlus, an online service of the National Institute of Health. How it acts on cancer is unknown. Among the theories is that the curcumin acts directly against cancer cells, killing them; because of its antioxidant properties; or because it prevents blood vessels from growing. Cancer is a serious disease that should not be self-treated. Speak with a qualified medical professional before using curcumin to improve your health.
Antioxidant
Curcumin is an antioxidant, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Antioxidants work as scavengers in the body, repairing and preventing damage to cells. However, it is not known whether curcumin's antioxidant properties work to prevent cellular damage. Consult with a healthcare practitioner before using curcumin supplements to treat any medical condition.
Anti-Inflammatory
Curcumin can act like an anti-inflammatory in the body, easing some of the pain and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and other conditions causing inflammation, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Institute. Because the exact mechanism of action is unknown, it is important to consult with a medical professional before using curcumin to treat inflammation.
HIV
People with HIV may achieve some benefit from curcumin because it may act against the virus, notes MedlinePlus, though the precise way in which curcumin affects the HIV virus is unknown. Because HIV and AIDS are life-threatening conditions, be sure to consult with a knowledgeable medical professional before using it to fight the deadly infection.
Gallstones
The lower incidence of gallstones in India--where turmeric is more widely consumed--is sometimes attributed to the higher dietary intake of curcumin, according to MedlinePlus. However, no conclusive human data has demonstrated it to either prevent gallstones of increase the flow of bile. In addition, MedlinePlus advises that people with gallbladder disease not use turmeric supplements because of potential risks.
Alzheimer's Disease
People afflicted with Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive impairments may see an improvement in cognitive function when taking curcumin. This effect is achieved because a substance called amyloid beta that forms plaques in the brain may be inhibited by curcumim, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. However, more research on how curcumin works in the human body is needed before it can be recommended to improve cognitive abilities. Speak with your medical practitioner before using it to treat Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
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