Curcumin

Species Name: curcuma longa, Indian turmeric, curcuma rotunda

Curcumin is the principal active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin has been used for centuries in India. It is now getting worldwide recognition due to the fact that people of India suffer the lowest Alzheimer’s rate in the world.

Extensive research and current studies being conducted by scientists show a wide array of health benefits of curcumin. Curcumin can be found in many health food stores as a dietary supplement. Curcumin contains curcuminoids and polyphenols. Data shows that curcumin has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been proven to be safe without the side effects of their counterpart prescription medications.

Home Remedies using Curcumin:

Benefits of Curcumin:

Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic practitioners have long known about the use of curcumin in herbal remedies and has been used safely for centuries.

There are reports and studies that show curcumin reduces inflammation in:

• Arthritis
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Inflammatory bowel disease

Curcumin also plays a role in:

• The fight against cancer
• Accelerating the healing of wounds
• Cataract formation
• Neurological diseases
• Lower cholesterol

Curcumin is also therapeutic in relieving anxiety, stress, and depression. Taking curcumin daily along with other vitamins, minerals, and nutrients you will enjoy increased energy levels almost immediately.

Uses of Curcumin:

Alzheimer’s Disease:

A study conducted by UCLA has tested and revealed that curcumin in models of Alzheimer’s disease can help slow the progression of this disease. It reduces the oxidative damage and inflammation (as expected), but it also reduces amyloid protein (plaque) accumulation in the brain. More can be read on the subject here: Alzheimer Study

Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Tests have shown that people with rheumatoid arthritis have greatly benefited from taking a curcumin extract. The test shows that curcumin can help prevent joint inflammation and can also help prevent bone loss.

Lower Cholesterol:

Scientific studies gaining attention are showing that curcumin can lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood.

Side Effects of Curcumin:

Most people will tolerate curcumin well; some may experience mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction such as an itchy rash. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, a chemotherapy patient, or have liver disease, consult a physician prior to use.