Turmeric, medically known as Curcuma longa, is a plant used as a food and also for therapeutic benefits for thousands of years in both Ayrvedic and Chinese Medicine. Curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric is a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound and these qualities have been researched for a variety of health conditions including heart diseases, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. If you suffer from a heart condition and consider taking turmeric, first talk to your health care provider.
Research
A review of scientific literature that assessed the effects of turmeric on heart diseases was described in an article published in March 2009 issue of "Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Therapeutics." The authors found turmeric effective in improving several markers that are predict the health or the heart, however most studies were conducted in in vivo and in vitro and limited research confirmed these findings in human studies. Another study, found in July 2009 issue of "Ethno Pharmacology" evaluated whether or not turmeric can improve the blood pressure. This study was conducted in animal subjects and showed that turmeric helps reduce the blood pressure and heart rates as well as improving the blood flow.
University of Maryland Medical Center also notes some research conducted in animal models that found turmeric able to lower cholesterol blood levels and inhibit the formations of the blood clots. These actions together may help prevent aterosclerosis, which is the build up of fat in the blood vessels walls that cause conditions like angina, heart attacks and stroke.
Forms
In Indian cuisine, turmeric is a common spice used in a variety of foods. As a supplement, turmeric is available over the counter in capsule, tablet, tincture and fluid extract forms.
Safety
Turmeric is generally considered a safe and well tolerated supplement. In Europe, German E Commission approved its use for various digestive conditions; however, in North America it is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat any medical conditions. Use cautiously turmeric supplements is you have gallstones or diabetes associated with a heart condition. Also if you are pregnant or breastfeeding you should not use this supplement as the safety of it in these situations has not been established.
Considerations
You can use plenty of turmeric as a spice in your food. If you consider taking it as a supplement you should consult a health care professional to find out optimal dosage and other natural supplements that may help your condition. A healthy diet and exercise may also keep your heart healthy. Keep in mind that turmeric does not replace conventional drugs prescribed for heart conditions.
References
- Univeristy of Maryland, Medical Center: Turmeric
- "Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Therapeutics"; Currying the Heart: Curcumin and Cardioprotection; G.Srivastava et al; March, 2009
- "Ethno pharmacology" ; Hypotensive and Endothelium-Independent Vasorelaxant Effects of Methanolic Extract From Curcuma Longa L. in Rats; OA. Adaramoye et al; July, 2009
