In recent years, turmeric and curcumin have gained popularity among the masses for several good reasons. Curcumin has been found to be a potent cancer fighter. This is largely due to the fact that curcumin inhibits the formation of the compound 6-phenyl butyric acid (BPA) in the human body. However, scientists are not entirely convinced about the cancer-fighting abilities of turmeric and curcumin. To clarify the issue further, let us take a look at some of the turmeric and curcumin benefits.
First of all, we can talk about turmeric health benefits as related to Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Journal of Biological Chemistry, a research team led by Dr. sepath Ramakrishnan of the Department of Neurosurgery, Rambagh University, India, has shown that curcumin is effective in preventing the protein amyloid fibril formation in the brain, which is directly related to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. amyloid fibril is a protein deposit that accumulates in the brain and is implicated in the process of stroke, memory loss, and hyperactivity. These amyloid deposits tend to build up inside the brain resulting in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. In an extensive clinical trial conducted in India, it was found that the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric had a significant impact on the progression of the disease.
Turmeric also has anti-inflammation properties. Research has revealed that curcumin is capable of reducing the levels of interleukins that are involved in the process of inflammation inside the body. Interleukins are known to increase the production of free radicals which can eventually lead to the degeneration of various tissues of the body including the brain. When the brain degenerates, the patient experiences cognitive decline and has a worse memory. Apart from the above, turmeric is also known to help reduce inflammation and therefore plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the brain. As a result of these and many other health benefits of turmeric, it is widely used in Indian and Asian cultures to cook food.
Proven health benefits of turmeric include the reduction of the pain caused by joint diseases. In recent times, scientific research has revealed that curcumin has the potential power to treat different types of arthritis by decreasing the level of arthritic inflammation. Studies have shown that curcumin has the ability to reduce inflammation, which is responsible for the gouty inflammation of joints. This means turmeric can be effectively used to treat different types of arthritis, which can go a long way in preventing the development of gout or arthritis in the future.
Proven health benefits of turmeric also include the protection of the body from cancer. Curcumin has the ability to protect the body against the growth of cancer cells. A recent study has indicated that turmeric can fight against pancreatic cancer cells, which are responsible for releasing insulin from the pancreas to secrete glucose into the bloodstream. The presence of curcumin reduces the size of pancreatic tumors, which prevents it from spreading to other parts of the body.
Proven health benefits of turmeric include reduced cholesterol levels in the body. There have been studies conducted in the US and UK that indicate that the intake of turmeric can significantly lower total serum cholesterol and increase HDL (good cholesterol). Moreover, the antioxidant properties of turmeric help in preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein, which is primarily responsible for the accumulation of fat in the body.
Proven health benefits of turmeric include treating other ailments associated with common daily illnesses. Turmeric has been known to cure common colds in children. Moreover, this herb can also ease the symptoms of menstrual cramps and other ailments related to hormonal imbalance in women. Turmeric is also useful in the treatment of joint pain due to rheumatoid arthritis. It has also been used to treat other skin diseases, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and is an effective remedy against acne.
The proven health benefits of turmeric are not limited to the above-mentioned conditions. It can also help in reducing various forms of cancer, prevent diabetes, help improve kidney function, prevent HIV and even regulate cholesterol levels. Thus, turmeric is one of the most useful spices in the world. Add it to your diet regularly to reap the best of the health benefits of turmeric.