Tumeric has long been used to give Indian food its distinct flavor and color, but the health benefits may go far beyond its seasoning properties. Doctors at many well-known universities are studying the spice to determine its health benefits. Researchers say early studies suggest that the active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, can help fight infections, lower bad cholesterol, slow the spread of cancer, combat inflammation and treat digestive problems.
Anti-Inflammatory
Stanford University's Wellsphere website reports that curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that have been used for centuries in eastern medicine to treat wounds. These anti-inflammatory properties can help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis, researchers at the University of Maryland Medical Center suggest. They note that a study of people using turmeric reported significantly reduced pain and disability associated with osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
Digestive Aid
Curcumin has been shown to stimulate the production of bile in the gall bladder, which the University of Maryland researchers believe may be effective in fighting indigestion. Doctors at Harvard's Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center say the herb can benefit help alleviate the symptoms of many stomach problems including discomfort, gas, bloating, appetite loss and nausea. The spice may also be effective at helping patients with ulcerative colitis manage their conditions.
A Powerful Antioxidant
Stanford University reports on their Wellsphere website that the high curcumin levels found in turmeric give the herb anti-oxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals in the body. This helps prevent cellular damage and is effective in protecting the body from chronic conditions like heart disease and stroke.
Lowers Bad Cholesterol
Research conducted by Stanford University suggests that turmeric may help lower LDL,or bad, cholesterol levels in the body. These properties may also help prevent the build-up of plaque in the arteries and even prevent blood clots from forming in the arteries, according to Maryland researchers.
CancerTreatment
Doctors at the Maryland and Harvard medical schools say that early studies indicate turmeric may be effective at battling some forms of cancer, although they caution that much more research is needed before this can be proven. Preliminary results indicate that the herb may be helpful in combating bone and pancreatic cancer, Harvard's Beth Israel physicians said. They also note that laboratory studies conducted on mice indicate that the spice blocks the growth of melanoma and stops the spread of breast cancer into the lungs. Stanford researchers say the herb may also be effective at slowing the growth of prostate cancer.
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