[vc_row][vc_column width="1/1"][vc_column_text]By: Dr. Gayle Maguire N.D.
Turmeric, especially the isolated constituent Curcumin, has been studied extensively in the last few years for some very impressive reasons. There are suggestions that turmeric is anti-neoplastic (anti-cancer), a great antioxidant and liver protector and anti-inflammatory. Studies are most supportive of turmeric for a few specific benefits:
Osteoarthritis
Turmeric can be a great option in pain management, joining the realm of glucosamine and acupuncture. It was comparable to ibuprofen in knee osteoarthritis patients, which suggests it can be used for other areas afflicted by osteoarthritis (Henrotin, 2013).
Cardiovascular health
Turmeric has been connected to lowered rates of heart attack after bypass surgeries (Wongcharoen et al, 2012). It is believed that turmeric may also have a positive influence on cholesterol, though studies have not yet proven that.
Cancer
With so many types of cancer and treatments, it can be difficult to claim a drug or natural product helpful for all types. Turmeric, so far, has be shown to be effective to help with the side effect of skin irritation after radiation in breast and other cancer (Verma 2016).
Alzheimers
Turmeric likely has a role in prevention of Alzheimers, according to researchers; however, less beneficial once the disease is diagnosed. These may be due to purported antioxidant and liver protectant properties.
Turmeric has many on-going studies and is generally quite well tolerated by patients. High doses can cause digestive upset, trigger gall stone attacks or ulcers, so should not be used in those with a history of gallstones or ulcers.
This article is for informative purposes only, not to replace medical advice. Please consult a medical or naturopathic doctor to see if turmeric may be helpful for you.
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