Turmeric supplements contain the spice turmeric or an extract of one of its compounds. Curcumin, responsible for most of turmeric’s benefits, may have cancer-preventive properties and help control inflammation. Turmeric supplements may also improve circulation, protect against hardening of the arteries, and have antihistamine properties. Moderate use is likely safe, but those using blood thinners should consult a doctor.
Turmeric supplements are a type of dietary supplement that contain the spice turmeric, or an extract of one of its compounds. Turmeric is a yellow spice that comes from a plant, Curcuma longa, native to India. In culinary use, it is probably best known for giving its yellow color to different curry sauce preparations. The spice has been investigated for its possible roles in the treatment or prevention of a number of health conditions, including cancer, psoriasis, arthritis, and other conditions. Turmeric supplements are usually found in the form of pills of different dosages.
Turmeric supplements sometimes contain standardized extracts of curcumin in varying amounts. Curcumin, which gives turmeric its golden yellow color, is believed to be responsible for most of turmeric’s benefits. Scientific research has suggested that curcumin has cancer-preventive properties in animal and test tube studies, slowing the growth and metastasis, or spread, of cancer. This may be because curcumin acts as an antioxidant in the body, prevents deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage, or helps repair DNA damage. Curcumin’s ability to fight cancer has led to much of the scientific attention it has attracted.
Turmeric supplements may also be helpful in controlling inflammation in the body. This could make it useful for relieving inflammatory conditions like arthritis and psoriasis, among others. Some anecdotal evidence suggests relief from joint pain caused by arthritis, as well as itching and flaking skin caused by psoriasis.
The curcumin in turmeric supplements may have a number of other therapeutic effects. Since it appears to prevent blood platelets from sticking together, which can cause blood clots, it may improve circulation and protect against hardening of the arteries. It is also being studied for gastrointestinal conditions, such as Chrohn’s disease, ulcers, and indigestion. It has also shown antihistamine properties, which could be responsible for its anti-inflammatory effect. It is also being tested as a treatment for various conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes.
Turmeric comes from the rhizome, or root-like structure, of the curcuma longa plant. The plant is related to ginger. In addition to its culinary use, turmeric has a history of traditional medicinal use in India.
Since turmeric has a long history of regular and widespread use in cooking without ill effects, moderate use of these supplements is likely safe. Turmeric supplements may have blood-thinning effects, so people using blood thinners should consult a doctor about their use. Simply adding turmeric to more dishes can provide some of the potential benefits of turmeric supplements.
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