According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, turmeric, whose active ingredient and pigment is known as curcumin, has been used in traditional and herbal medicines for thousands of years due to its healing properties. It is a popular spice commonly used in Indian cooking and gives curry its unique flavor and yellow color.
Antioxidant
Tumeric has strong antioxidant properties. Antioxidants fight the damaging effects of free radicals in your body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, free radicals can cause cell death and may alter DNA. Free radicals are caused by numerous factors, such as cigarette smoke and other toxins, and they are also a natural byproduct of your digestive process.
Anti-Inflammatory
Curcumin, the main ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful for reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. According to the George Mateljan Foundation World's Healthiest Foods website, laboratory studies have shown curcumin to have anti-inflammatory effects similar to drugs like hydrocortisone. The University of Maryland Medical Center's article said one study showed turmeric prevented relapse of ulcerative colitis in patients who took it instead of a placebo.
Cancer Prevention
Due to its antioxidant action, it's possible that turmeric can help prevent certain forms of cancer. Curcumin may help kill mutated cancer cells, according to the George Mateljan Foundation World's Healthiest Foods website. Early research evidence has showed that curcumin can have a potentially beneficial effect on cancers of the breast, colon, prostate and skin, however, additional research is still needed in these areas.
Diabetes
Curcumin may control elevated blood sugar levels. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some research in laboratory animals showed that blood sugar levels decreased when the animals were given turmeric, however, researchers are still unsure of its effects on humans in relation to its influence on blood sugar.
Digestive Upset
Curcumin may be helpful for alleviating certain digestive problems such as dyspepsia, otherwise known as heartburn. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, curcumin stimulates bile production, which may assist in the digestive process. Additionally, curcumin can help alleviate gas and bloating. However, because it increases acid in the stomach, it has not been found to be an effective treatment for stomach ulcers.
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