Curcumin: A Powerful Antioxidant
Curcumin: A Powerful Antioxidant
Curcumin is a substance that comes from Turmeric (Curcuma longa), a
plant native to south India and Indonesia. Its rootstalk has been used for
ages as a condiment, as a textile dye, and medically as an aromatic
stimulant. Curcumin is the substance that gives the spice derived from
the Turmeric tree its yellow color. This is where curry powder comes
from, the most popular staple of Indian diet.
Curcumin contains many powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory
compounds. However, most doctors are not, at this time, aware of the
potential benefits of this fascinating herb. Indian herbal afficionados also
believe that curcumin supports colon health, protects the nerves, and
helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
United Nations' health arm, the World Health Organization (WHO) is
currently evaluating studies on curcumin's possible application as a cure
for cancer. A 2004 UCLA-Veterans Affair study involving genetically
altered mice suggests that the substance seems to inhibit the
accumulation of destructive beta amyloids in the brains of patients
suffering from Alzheimer's disease.