Autism is a childhood disorder whose prevalence has dramatically increased, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found in a 2007 study. Parents of children with the disorder and physicians have begun to examine the use of natural supplements for treating the disorder and its comorbid symptoms. Turmeric is a spice that has been used as a medicinal treatment for some conditions. However, as of 2011, there is no research support for its use in children with autism.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a plant found in southern Asia, mostly in India. It is closely related to the ginger plant. The roots or bulbs of the plant are boiled, dried, and made into a powder, which can be used in food or as a medicine. Turmeric is used in curry to contribute to the flavor and color of the dish, and is also used in mustard and cheese. The main ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, acts as an antioxidant. As such, it helps to counteract the effect of free radicals, particles that damage cell membranes and DNA and may lead to the death of cells. Curcumin may also minimize inflammation in the body and prevent blood clots.
Uses of Turmeric
Turmeric can been used to treat various health conditions. In treating indigestion, research has shown turmeric encourages bile production in the gallbladder, leading to improved digestion, and it reduces gas and bloating for those with indigestion. Turmeric may help to prevent atherosclerosis, plaque buildup in the heart that may lead to stroke or heart attack, because of its ability to help prevent blood clots. Its anti-inflammatory abilities may be useful in treating osteoarthritis. It has also been suggested as useful in treating cancer and diabetes. However, many of the studies on its effectiveness have been conducted with animals, so it isn't clear that the effects of turmeric can be generalized to human conditions.
Autism
Autism is typically diagnosed by the age of 3; however, symptoms of the disorder become apparent as young as infancy. By 18 months, most parents recognize delays and have some concerns for their child's development. Early indicators include lack of babbling, not sharing interest with caregivers, delay in language development, and poor responsiveness when the baby's name is called. In order to meet diagnostic criteria, a child needs to demonstrate significant deficits in social interaction skills, communication, and the presence of restricted, repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. This may include poor eye contact, misunderstanding social cues, lack of interest in playing with others, language delay, repetitive motor movements, and difficulty with adjusting to routines.
Use of Turmeric with Autism
As of 2011, there is no definitive link between turmeric and autism. Dr. Michael Chez has examined the use of turmeric for its ability to improve behavior and communication symptoms in children with autism, but his results were not available at the time of publication. However, no other studies have examined a specific link between the two. As an antioxidant, turmeric may benefit autism by enhancing brain functioning and development, as well as overall body health. This may help to protect or enhance the immune system. An article published by Kevin Becker in "Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care" in 2008 suggests that an unbalanced immune system and inflammation as related to autism, which would support the potential use of turmeric. However, very little research is available to support this supplement as a treatment for autism, so it should be used cautiously and under the supervision of a doctor.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Turmeric; David Zieve and David Eltz; 2010
- Sutter Health; Research: Sutter Neuroscience Institute; 2011
- National Institutes of Health; Autism, Asthma, Inflammation, and the Hygiene Hypothesis; Kevin G Becker; 2007
- National Institute of Mental Health; Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders); 2008
