Turmeric

Turmeric is thought to have many medicinal properties and many in India use it as a readily available antiseptic for cuts, burns and bruises, and as an antibacterial agent. In some Asian countries it is taken as a dietary supplement, which allegedly helps with stomach problems and other ailments. It is currently being investigated for possible benefits in Alzheimer's disease, cancer and liver disorders. It is only in recent years that Western scientists have increasingly recognised the medicinal properties of turmeric.

A 2004 UCLA-Veterans Affairs study suggests that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, might inhibit the accumulation of destructive beta amyloids in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients.

A recent study has shown that turmeric slows the spread of breast cancer into lungs and other body parts. Turmeric also enhances the effect of taxol in reducing metastasis of breast cancer.

In the November 2006 issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, a study was published that showed the effectiveness of turmeric in the reduction of joint inflammation, and recommended clinical trials as a possible treatment for the alleviation of arthritis symptoms.

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