Curcumin – The Wonder Nutrient In Turmeric
Curcumin is a phytonutrient present in turmeric. Turmeric owes its medicinal properties to curcumin. Curcumin is also available in the form of dietary supplements. Turmeric or curcumin supplements could be taken to cure several health disorders.
Benefits of turmeric
Fights cancer
Curcumin is believed to possess anti cancer property. Studies have shown that this curcuminoid could prevent growth of malignant cells. It can even kill cancer cells. Researchers have also found that as an anti-angiogenesis, curcumin could prevent growth of new blood vessels that provide nourishment to the cancer tumors. Curcumin might prevent as well as slow down growth of cancer tumors. In addition, curcumin prevent mutation of DNA in cells. DNA mutation triggers growth of abnormal cells. Curcumin could even slow down growth of H.pylori bacteria associated with colon and stomach cancers.
Treats gastrointestinal disorders
Curcumin could heal dyspepsia, flatulance and indigestion. It improves appetite. Some studies suggest that curcumin could help to cure peptic ulcer. However, prolonged use of curcumin supplements or taking large doses of curcumin might harm your stomach. Large doses of this phytonutrient might cause diarrhea and stomach irritation. Some health experts believe that curcumin could heal the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Curcumin prevents formation of gallstones.
Arthritis remedy
Curcumin is noted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is beneficial for people suffering from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It helps to reduce joint inflammation and pain. Curcumin also reduces joint stiffness and improves joint mobility. Curcumin supplements are a safer alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are taken by arthritis patients for reducing joint pain.
Good for liver
In Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is recommended for enhancing liver function. Researchers believe that curcumin is primarily associated with this beneficial property of turmeric. Curcumin acts as a natural detoxification agent. It protects the liver from toxins and alcohol. It could increase bile production.
Prevents memory loss
Curcumin might reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. By breaking the amyloid plaques in the brain, curcumin might lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This plant nutrient might slow down degeneration of brain cells.
Good for the heart
Curcumin lowers LDL cholesterol in the blood. As an antioxidant, it prevents formation of plaques in the blood vessels. It also prevents formation of blood clots in the arteries.
