Turmeric, a staple of Indian, Moroccan and Middle Eastern cuisines, has a variety of purported health benefits. As the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, points out, though, evidence derived from human clinical studies to support any such benefits is lacking. However, curcumin, an active compound in turmeric, may have antioxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, according to the NCCAM. As with any herbal remedy, turmeric should not be used in place of medical diagnosis or treatment.
Digestive Benefits
Turmeric has a history of use to treat mild digestive problems. Eating turmeric may help control heartburn and indigestion, and it may help people with irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, according to MedlinePlus. Turmeric may also help prevent recurrence of ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease, adds the University of Maryland Medical Center. The spice may be useful for treating inflammatory bowel diseases as well, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, notes the George Mateljan Foundation on its website The World's Healthiest Foods.
Arthritis Relief
The curcumin in turmeric is believed to be an anti-inflammatory agent that may provide relief from arthritis. In particular, it may help soothe the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. The UMMC adds that turmeric's anti-inflammatory benefits may be as effective as corticosteroids for treating uveitis, a type of inflammation manifesting in the eyes. Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties, in conjunction with its antioxidant benefits, may also provide symptom relief in those with rheumatoid arthritis, adds the George Mateljan Foundation.
Protection Against Heart Attack and Stroke
Eating turmeric may address two key risk factors for a heart attack or stroke. It may help prevent the formation of blood clots, as well as lower LDL cholesterol levels, inhibiting atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries, notes the UMMC.
Anti-Cancer Benefits
The ability to sometimes prevent, slow or help treat cancer is attributed to turmeric, according to the UMMC. In particular, it may have benefits for people with skin, breast, prostate or colon cancer, specifies the UMMC. Turmeric may also help reduce the risk of lung cancer and childhood leukemia, adds the George Mateljan Foundation.
Cognitive Benefits
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the curcumin in turmeric may help boost cognitive functions, says MedlinePlus. Additionally, turmeric may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions, according to the George Mateljand Foundation.
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