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Monday 14 October 2019

Articles from turmeric-curcumin.com/

Turmeric is a member of the Curcuma botanical group, which is part of the ginger family of herbs, the Zingiberaceae. The root and rhizome stem of the Curcuma longa plant is crushed and powdered into ground turmeric spice. Ground turmeric is used worldwide as a seasoning and is the source of extracted curcumin.





"One of the greatest beneficial medicinal plants in the entire world...one of the most researched medicinal plants in history.” - Chris Kilham. Curcumin is a natural component of the rhizome of turmeric and one of the most studied phytochemicals in science. turmeric contains approximately 3% curcumin, which is extracted to 95% purity for research and nutritional supplementation.


WHAT ARE THE RESEARCHED PROPERTIES OF CURCUMIN?


"7,000 published articles have shed light on the various aspects of curcumin including its antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. Oxidative stress and inflammation play a pivotal role in various diseases like diabetes, cancer, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular diseases." - Food and Chemical Toxicology

"7,728 studies involving curcumin and another 3,205 studies involving turmeric, with the large majority focused on their effectiveness against multiple medical conditions. Multiple studies — most originating in India, Europe and Australia — show that turmeric, and especially its color-rich constituent of curcumin, can help prevent or treat a wide spectrum of cancers, inflammatory conditions, autoimmune problems, neurological ailments including Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and diabetes neuropathy, among other metabolic diseases." - Post Gazette

"6.000 articles published within the past two decades have discussed the molecular basis for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anticancer activities assigned to this nutraceutical. Over sixty five clinical trials conducted on this molecules, have shed light on the role of curcumin in various chronic conditions, including autoimmune, cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological diseases, as well as diabetes and cancer" - Biotechnology Advances

"9,000 publications on curcumin, numerous studies have indicated that curcumin is a highly potent antimicrobial agent and has been shown to be active against various chronic diseases including various types of cancers, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological and autoimmune diseases. To date, over 100 different clinical trials have been completed with curcumin, which clearly show its safety, tolerability and its effectiveness against various chronic diseases in humans." - British Journal of Pharmacology

"Recent studies have demonstrated that curcumin has a variety of biological activities and pharmacological performances, providing protection and promotion of human health. In addition to presenting an overview of the gut metabolism of curcumin, this paper reviews the current research progress on its versatile bioactivity, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulatory activities, and also intensively discusses its health benefits, including the protective or preventive effects on cancers and diabetes, as well as the liver, nervous system, and cardiovascular systems, highlighting the potential molecular mechanisms. Besides, the beneficial effects of curcumin on human are further stated based on clinical trials." - Nutrients Journal

"Curcumin has been used as pharmacological traditional medicinal agent in Ayurvedic medicine for 6000 years. The current review article presents effective role of curcumin against cancer, diabetes, oxidative stress, cardiovascular, obesity, and aging. Curcumin is a promising and significant natural bioactive compound which has been shown to possess numerous pharmacological activities including anticancer, antidiabetic, cardiovascular protective, antiobesity, antimicrobial, wound healing, and nephroprotective activities. The molecule has also potential to protect from reproductive and respiratory disorders in association with its strong antioxidant potential. In near furture, curcumin is expected to be proven as a novel drug to treat and cure several human disorders such as carcinogenesis, inflammatory disorders, and oxidative stress-induced pathogenesis." - Trends in Food Science & Technology


WHERE CAN I PURCHASE CURCUMIN?

Order direct from Turmeric-Curcumin.com, the largest supplier of Turmeric Curcumin supplements at wholesale prices to the general public, research institutions, physicians, and university medical centers since 2000. Quality control tests, laboratory analysis certification, and rigorous cGMP manufacturing standards all ensure freshness, potency, and purity of content material. Orders are shipped FedEx or USPS Priority for fast and secure delivery. Contact support@turmeric-curcumin.com for bulk ordering, private labeling or any other questions. Multiple bottle orders will receive quantity discounts listed below, 12-bottle case purchases will also receive free US shipping.




 

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500 MG OF CURCUMIN 95% EXTRACT PER CAPSULE.

When selecting a curcumin extract product, consumers should know the difference between curcumin and turmeric: Turmeric contains only 3% curcumin on average. Consumers may be misled by deceptive marketing to believe there is a higher curcumin percentage than there really is, examples include:


"Doctors Curcumin" on the front of the label, but checking the ingredient finds that each capsule is 100% Turmeric (curcuma longa), an inexpensive spice found in supermarkets and grocery stores.

"500mg Enhanced Formula!" only contains 200mg Curcumin extract, and the remainder is 300mg Turmeric spice.

"1000mg Super Complex Curcumin (25%)" which is actually only 250mg of Curcumin extract and the remaining 750mg is Turmeric spice.

"1000mg per serving", except the serving size is 4 capsules, 250 mg each.

"Curcumin with Turmeric 1500mg" but the serving size is 2 capsules, each with only 150mg Curcumin while the rest of the capsule is filled with 600mg of Turmeric spice.

Example of deceptive label from actual bottle, which contains a total of only 3,000mg of Curcumin 95% (60 capsules x 50mg) and yet still costs more than our bottle, which contains 100,000mg of Curcumin 95%



These deceptions are unfortunatley not uncommon in the supplement industry. The solution is to compare labels. Our label clearly indicates the contents - Curcumin extracted from Turmeric root - the purity - 95% concentration - and the amount in each capsule - 500mg. 

The source of our curcumin extract is turmeric grown in India, never China. Within India, we are extensively networked with selected farms in the Eastern Ghats highlands, known for Turmeric with the highest natural curcumin content in the world, at 8.8% and West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, where the Lakadong variety of turmeric contains 7% curcumin. 

From this high quality Turmeric (Curcuma longa) root, we extract curcumin to a minimum 95% concentration. Within this extraction is the full spectrum of curcuminoids - Curcumin (C), Demethoxycurcumin (DMC), Bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) - in their natural composition ratio of 76:19:5 for maximum potency. This is the same extract used in clinical trials and medical studies, free of added chemicals, treatments, or patented "formulas / complexes". There is no claimed "enhancing" material to fill the capsule and lower the curcumin percentage. 

Our product contains no starch, no sugars or sweeteners, no artificial colors or flavors, no sodium, no soy, no yeast, no wheat, no corn, no rice or other grains, no gluten, no dairy, no preservatives, no GMO, no dyes, no gums, and no black pepper extract, piperine, or "bioperine" which is actually a trademark of the Sabinsa corporation.


200 CAPSULES PER BOTTLE.

Each bottle contains 200 capsules, and every 12-bottle case contains over two and a half pounds of curcumin extract. The suggested serving size is one (1) to four (4) capsules with each meal.



ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS OF CURCUMIN OR TURMERIC?

The safety, tolerability, and nontoxicity of curcumin at high doses are well established by human clinical trials. The US FDA classifies Turmeric as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe). Pregnant women, individuals with gallstones or using blood thinners should consult a health care provider before using herbs or dietary supplements in amounts greater than usually found in foods.

"Curcumin, even in large quantities, does not produce any known side effects in humans."

"Curcumin is not toxic to humans up to 8,000 mg/day."- Anticancer Research

"Patients received 8 g curcumin by mouth daily...No toxicities were observed." - Clinical Cancer Research

"A phase 1 human trial with 25 subjects using up to 8000 mg of curcumin per day for 3 months found no toxicity from curcumin. Five other human trials using 1125-2500 mg of curcumin per day have also found it to be safe." - Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine

"Therapy using 8 g oral curcumin daily was safe and feasible in patients with pancreatic cancer."


HAS THE ABSORPTION OF CURCUMIN 95% BEEN STUDIED?

In most studies Curcumin 95% has been delivered orally whether the subject is human or animals. This orally delivered Curcumin 95% extract showed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer beneficial effects. 

Curcumin is fat-soluble, so when combined with healthy fats and oils, the body can absorb it better because curcumin is directly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lymphatic system thereby in part bypassing the liver. You can help ensure you are absorbing the maximum amount by ingesting curcumin with healthy fats like fish oil, olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, nuts and seeds.

"Clinical trials have shown that orally delivered curcumin inhibited inflammatory molecules." - AAPS Journal


"Oral curcumin, 6.0 g daily during radiotherapy, reduced the severity of radiation dermatitis in breast cancer patients." - Radiation Research

"Oral administration of 90 mg of curcumin or the placebo 2 hours before exercise and immediately after exercise. Curcumin supplementation attenuated exercise-induced oxidative stress by increasing blood antioxidant capacity." - Int J Sports Med.

"In animal oral administration, Curcumin inhibited lung cancer, skin cancer, head and neck cancer, oral cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, mammary tumors, lymphomas, leukemias, and familial adenomatous polyposis. - Cancer Res Treat.

"Oral treatment of curcumin found to effective in diabetic condtion. It attenuated high fat diet-induced glucose intolerance and elevations of oxidative stress in the skeletal muscle." - World J Diabetes.

"Curcumin was effective both orally and topically. These results show that curcumin enhanced wound repair in diabetic impaired healing, and could be developed as a pharmacological agent in such clinical settings." - Wound Repair Regen.

"Our findings indicate that curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that prevents the release of TNFα and protects against the pulmonary and cardiovascular effects of DEP." - PLoS One.


HAS THE BIOAVAILABILITY OF CURCUMIN 95% BEEN STUDIED?

"Over 200 clinical studies with curcumin have demonstrated the pronounced protective role of this compound against cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, metabolic diseases, neurological diseases, skin diseases, liver diseases, various types of cancer, etc. The therapeutic potential of curcumin, as demonstrated by clinical trials has overpowered the myth that poor bioavailability of curcumin poses a problem. Low curcumin bioavailability in certain studies has been addressed by using higher concentrations of curcumin within nontoxic limits. Hence, bioavailability is not a problem in the curcumin-mediated treatment of chronic diseases. Therefore, this golden nutraceutical presents a safe, low-cost and effective treatment modality for different chronic diseases." - Expert Opinion Drug Metabolism Toxicology, September 2019

"In a human clinical trial, 3.6 g of Curcumin via oral route was found to produce a plasma curcumin level of 11.1 nmol/L after an hour of dosing." - Clin Cancer Research.

"The average peak serum concentrations after taking 4,000 mg, 6,000 mg and 8,000 mg of curcumin were 0.51 microM, 0.63 microM and 1.77 microM, respectively." - Phase I Clinical Trial of Curcumin, Anticancer Research

"Traces of curcumin were detected in the plasma. Its concentration in the small intestinal mucosa, between 39 and 240 nmol/g of tissue, reflects differences in dietary concentration...The comparison of dose, resulting curcumin levels in the intestinal tract, and chemopreventive potency suggests tentatively that a daily dose of 1.6 g of curcumin is required for efficacy in humans." - Journal Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers.

"The concentrations of curcumin in normal and malignant colorectal tissue of patients receiving 3,600 mg of curcumin were 12.7 +/- 5.7 and 7.7 +/- 1.8 nmol/g, respectively...The results suggest that a daily dose of 3.6 g curcumin achieves pharmacologically efficacious levels in the colorectum with negligible distribution of curcumin outside the gut." - Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev.


"One hour after administration, the levels of curcumin in the intestines, spleen, liver, and kidneys were 177.04, 26.06, 26.90, and 7.51 microg/g, respectively." - Journal Drug Metab Dispos.

"Curcumin was found in plasma (16.1 ng/mL), urine (2.0 ng/mL), intestinal mucosa (1.4 mg/g), liver (3,671.8 ng/g), kidney (206.8 ng/g), and heart (807.6 ng/g)." - Journal Agric Food Chem.

"Curcuminoids were detectable in plasma samples, urine samples, and in the colonic mucosa of all 23 biopsied participants. Mean tissue levels were 48.4 μg/g (127.8 nmol/g) of parent curcuminoids. The major conjugate, curcumin glucuronide, was detectable in 29 of 35 biopsies. High levels of topical curcumin persisted in the mucosa for up to 40 hours postadministration. In summary, pharmacologically active levels of curcumin were recovered from colonic mucosa. The regimen used here seems safe, and patients support its use in long-term trials." - Cancer Prev Res.

"After oral administration of 400 mg Curcumin to rats, about 60% of the dose was absorbed." - Journal Toxicology.

"Tissue distribution of Curcumin using tritium-labeled drug. They found that radioactivity was detectable in blood, liver, and kidney following doses of 400, 80, or 10 mg of [3H] curcumin. With 400 mg, considerable amount of radio labeled products were present in tissues 12 days after dosing. The percentage of curcumin absorbed (60-66% of the given dose) remained constant." - Journal Toxicology


ARE THERE ANY NATURAL METHODS OF INCREASING BIOAVAILABILITY?

"Buttermilk could be used as a carrier for curcuminoids especially if delivered with food...The most important and practical finding from the bioaccessibility data is that the incorporation of powdered curcuminoids with buttermilk results in a 15-fold increase in bioaccessibility of curcuminoids." - Food Chemistry

WHY PURE CURCUMIN 95% WITHOUT PIPERINE OR ANY OTHER ADDITIVES?
Piperine nullifies the antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of curcumin, co-administration of curcumin with piperine did not bring any advantage to the curcumin effects. The inhibition of biotransformation processes increases the bioavailability of drugs, however this strategy will not necessarily increase the pharmacodynamic actions"- PLoS One

Reproductive toxicity of piperine: Piperine interferes with several crucial reproductive events in a mammalian model - Planta Medica

Piperine may interfere with the metabolism and slow the elimination of a number of drugs - European Journal of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics

Piperine is acutely toxic to experimental animals - Toxicology Letters

Piperine Lowers the Serum Concentrations of Thyroid Hormones, Glucose and Hepatic 5′D Activity - Hormone and Metabolic Research

Death of cerebellar neurons induced by piperine - Neurochemical Research

The Dangers of Piperine


WHAT ARE THE PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIONS OF CURCUMIN?




For centuries it has been known that turmeric exhibits anti-inflammatory activity. First shown to have anti-bacterial activity in 1949, curcumin has since been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, pro-apoptotic, chemopreventive, chemotherapeutic, anti-proliferative, wound healing, anti-nociceptive, anti-parasitic, and anti-malarial properties as well. Animal studies have suggested that curcumin may be active against a wide range of human diseases, including diabetes, obesity, neurologic and psychiatric disorders, and cancer, as well as chronic illnesses affecting the eyes, lungs, liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. Although many clinical trials evaluating curcumin's safety and efficacy against human ailments have already been completed, others are still ongoing. Moreover, curcumin is used as a supplement in several countries, including India, Japan, the United States, Thailand, China, Korea, Turkey, South Africa, Nepal, and Pakistan. Extensive research performed within the past two decades has shown that the this activity of turmeric is due to curcumin, a diferuloylmethane. This agent has been shown to regulate numerous transcription factors, cytokines, protein kinases, adhesion molecules, redox status and enzymes that have been linked to inflammation. The process of inflammation has been shown to play a major role in most chronic illnesses, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases.



Extensive research over the past half century has shown that curcumin (diferuloylmethane), a component of the golden spice turmeric (Curcuma longa), can modulate multiple cell signaling pathways. Extensive clinical trials over the past quarter century have addressed the pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of this nutraceutical against numerous diseases in humans. Some promising effects have been observed in patients with various pro-inflammatory diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, uveitis, ulcerative proctitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel disease, tropical pancreatitis, peptic ulcer, gastric ulcer, idiopathic orbital inflammatory pseudotumor, oral lichen planus, gastric inflammation, vitiligo, psoriasis, acute coronary syndrome, atherosclerosis, diabetes, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic microangiopathy, lupus nephritis, renal conditions, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, β-thalassemia, biliary dyskinesia, Dejerine-Sottas disease, cholecystitis, and chronic bacterial prostatitis. Curcumin has also shown protection against hepatic conditions, chronic arsenic exposure, and alcohol intoxication. Dose-escalating studies have indicated the safety of curcumin at doses as high as 12 g/day over 3 months. Extensive preclinical studies over the past three decades have indicated curcumin’s therapeutic potential against a wide range of human diseases (7). In addition, curcumin has been shown to directly interact with numerous signaling molecules (8). These preclinical studies have formed a solid basis for evaluating curcumin’s efficacy in clinical trials. Observations from almost 67 clinical trials have been published, whereas another 35 clinical trials are in progress. The clinical trials conducted thus far have indicated the therapeutic potential of curcumin against a wide range of human diseases.


HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND COGNITIVE DECLINE?



Common brain disorders, including depression and Alzheimer’s disease, have been linked to diminished levels of an important neurologic growth hormone called brain-derived neurotrophic factor. An Australian study, in the Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2015, found that curcumin improved attention and working memory and reduced mental fatigue in older people who took it for four weeks, compared to a placebo. Several studies have shown that curcumin, the active medicinal compound in turmeric, can increase levels of BDNF in the human brain and therefore delay or even reverse a range of common neurological disorders. One of the main drivers of this process is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is a type of growth hormone that functions in your brain (20). Many common brain disorders have been linked to decreased levels of this hormone, including depression and Alzheimer's disease. Interestingly, curcumin can increase brain levels of BDNF. By doing this, it may be effective in delaying or even reversing many brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function. It may also improve memory and make you smarter, which seems logical given its effects on BDNF levels. However, controlled studies in people are needed to confirm this. In addition, scientists are beginning to suspect that the neurologic powers of curcumin don’t just stop there, with research suggesting that this compound may improve memory and increase cognitive capacity. Curcumin, thanks to its wide range of effects, seems to help the brain resist buildup of harmful plaque in brains with Alzheimer's. A study in the Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology explored curcumin's potential for use in the treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Some of the key points included: Curcumin may help the macrophages, which play an important role in our immune system, clear the amyloid plaques found in Alzheimer's disease. Curcumin has anti-proliferative actions on microglia. Microglia are immune cells of the central nervous system that become active in response to any number of stressors on the body. However, if the microglia have been stimulated to react too often, they become hyper-reactive, which can trigger system-wide inflammation that can be difficult to stop. Curcumin has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. "Overall, curcumin decreases the main chemical for inflammation and the transcription of inflammatory cytokines … The exposure to curcumin also impaired the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-)." As chronic neuro-inflammation is considered one of the major factors in the development of Alzheimer's, it's possible too that curcumin may help in the treatment of other inflammatory disorders.Researchers found that Curcumin not only reduces oxidative damage and inflammation, but also reduces amyloid accumulation and synaptic marker loss and promotes amyloid phagocytosis and clearance. Curcumin worked to prevent synaptic marker and cognitive deficits caused by amyloid peptide infusion and abeta oligomer toxicity in vitro, and may help the immune system clear the brain of amyloid beta, which forms the plaques found in Alzheimer's disease. Clinical trials are in progress at UCLA with Curcumin for Alzheimer's. In the Alzheimer’s Disease Anti-Inflammatory Prevention Trial, researched showed that reducing inflammation has positive effects on patients with Alzheimer’s. Curcumin significantly lowered several inflammation markers, in addition to reducing plaque on the brain (a sign of Alzheimer’s) by 43 to 50 percent. "Worldwide, there are over 1000 published animal and human studies, both in vivo and in vitro in which the effects of curcumin on various diseases have been examined. Studies include epidemiological, basic and clinical research on AD." - Acad Neurol. 2008 Jan-Mar; 11(1): 13–19. The effect of curcumin (turmeric) on Alzheimer's disease: An overview Neuroprotective activity has also been shown in curcumin. In Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a peptide called β-amyloid (Aβ peptide) aggregates into oligomers and fibrils and forms deposits known as amyloid (or senile) plaques outside neurons in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of patients. Another feature of AD is the accumulation of intracellular neurofibrillary tangles formed by phosphorylated Tau protein. Abnormal microglial activation, oxidative stress, and neuronal death are also associated with the progression of the disease. Curcumin has been found to inhibit Aβ fibril formation and extension and to destabilize preformed fibrils in vitro (51-53). Metal chelation by curcumin might interfere with metal ion (Cu2+/Zn2+)-induced Aβ aggregation. Curcumin might also affect the trafficking of Aβ peptide precursor (APP) and the generation of Aβ peptides from APP. Abnormally activated microglia and hypertrophic astrocytes around amyloid plaques in AD brains release cytotoxic molecules, such as proinflammatory cytokines and ROS, which enhance Aβ formation and deposition and further damage neurons. Curcumin was found to reduce the inflammatory response triggered by Aβ peptide-induced microglial activation and increase neuronal cell survival. When injected into the carotid artery of a transgenic mouse model of AD, curcumin was found to cross the blood-brain barrier, bind to amyloid plaques, and block the formation of Aβ oligomers and fibrils. In other animal models of AD, dietary curcumin decreased biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative damage, increased Aβ peptide clearance by macrophages, dismantled amyloid plaques in the brain, stimulated neuronal cell growth in the hippocampus, and improved Aβ-induced memory deficits. As a result of promising findings in animal models. a few recent clinical trials have examined the effect of oral curcumin supplementation on cognition in healthy older adults and AD patients. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 60 healthy older adults (mean age, 68.5 years) investigated whether acute (80 mg) or chronic (80 mg/day for 4 weeks) oral intake of curcumin could improve their ability to cope with the mental stress and change in mood usually associated with undergoing a battery of cognitive tests A significant reduction in mental fatigue and higher levels of calmness and contentedness following cognitive test sessions were observed in individuals who consumed curcumin (either acutely or chronically) compared to the placebo group. Additionally, the results of cognitive ability tests suggested that curcumin treatment had limited benefits on cognitive function, as shown by better scores in measures of sustained attention and working memory compared to placebo. The results of a six-month trial in 27 patients with AD found that oral supplementation with up to 4 g/day of curcumin - containing all three major curcuminoids - was safe. Curcumin also helps inhibit plaque that research has linked to neuron damage in the brain and a sign of the disease. There may be good news on the horizon because curcumin has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier. It’s known that inflammation and oxidative damage play a role in Alzheimer's disease, and curcumin has beneficial effects on both. In addition, a key feature of Alzheimer's disease is a buildup of protein tangles called amyloid plaques. Studies show that curcumin can help clear these plaques.


HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST DIABETES?

Curcumin has been shown to equal in effectiveness to the drug metformin in the management of diabetes, but without negative side effects. In the study curcumin was shown to lower blood glucose levels and reverse insulin resistance by suppressing glucose production in the liver. Among those verging on type 2 diabetes, curcumin capsules seem to help stall the onset of the disease. The study that returned these results found that while a little more than 16% of people taking a placebo wound up with a diabetes diagnosis, no one taking curcumin received one. A clinical trial from Thailand, published in Diabetes Care in 2012, found that people with prediabetes who took curcumin for nine months had improved function of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, along with a significantly reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Other studies suggest that curcumin can improve insulin sensitivity. Another study found curcumin improved metabolic function and reduced the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries of type-2 diabetes patients. Curcumin also acts as an anti-diabetic and antioxidant in patients with type-1 diabetes. Curcumin acts directly on liver cells to help prevent them from becoming fatty, and studies have concluded that Curcumin may have an anti-diabetic effect by decreasing serum fatty acid through the promotion of fatty acid oxidation and utilization. Curcumin also works directly on pancreatic beta cells to help them produce insulin normally. By helping the liver and the pancreas, Curcumin is taking stress off the two most important organs whose function declines before the onset of type 2 diabetes. Curcumin also influences key hormones, supports major body organs, and regulates inflammatory signaling all in ways that help correct or prevent metabolic problems. Curcumin helps lower inappropriately high levels of leptin (reducing leptin resistance) while boosting the all-important levels of the adiponectin (which lowers insulin resistance). Curcumin also helps activate the fat-burning gene signal PPAR gamma, which also helps to make more new, metabolically-fit fat cells. Curcumin directly reduces major inflammatory events from occurring inside white adipose tissue (tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1). By lowering such inflammation, the source of overweight-induced disease is targeted. Oxidative stress and inflammation have been implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and related vascular complications. A large body of preclinical evidence suggests that the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and glucose-lowering activities of curcumin and its analogs may be useful in the prevention and/or treatment of type 2 diabetes.


In a nine-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 237 subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (pre-diabetes), no progression to overt diabetes was reported with a daily ingestion of a mixture of curcuminoids (0.5 g), while 16.4% of placebo-treated participants developed diabetes. In addition, curcumin supplementation was shown to reduce insulin resistance and improve measures of pancreatic β-cell function and glucose tolerance. Supplemental curcumin was found to be as effective as lipid-lowering drug atorvastatin (10 mg/day) in reducing circulating markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde) and inflammation (endothelin-1, TNFα, IL-6) and in improving endothelial function. Another randomized controlled trial also reported that oral curcumin supplementation (1.5 g/day) for six months improved endothelial function, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic markers associated with atherogenesis (plasma triglycerides, visceral fat, total body fat) in participants with type 2 diabetes. Finally, in a two-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 40 individuals with type 2 diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease), daily curcumin ingestion (66.3 mg) significantly reduced urinary concentrations of proteins and inflammation markers (TGF-β, IL-8), suggesting that curcumin might be helpful with slowing the progression of kidney damage and preventing kidney failure. The research on curcumin suggests it can work as a hypoglycemic agent—lowering and helping control blood glucose (blood sugar) levels in people with type 2 diabetes. This can ultimately prevent those with the disease from developing other serious health complications associated with diabetes, such as neuropathy (damage to the nervous system) and nephropathy (kidney disease). A 2009 study published in the journal Biochemitry and Biophysical Research Community explored how curcumin might be valuable in treating diabetes, finding that it activates AMPK (which increases glucose uptake) and suppresses gluconeogenic gene expression (which suppresses glucose production in the liver) in hepatoma cells. Interestingly, they found curcumin to be 500 times to 100,000 times (in the form known as tetrahydrocurcuminoids(THC)) more potent than metformin in activating AMPK and its downstream target acetyl-CoA carboxylase.



HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST CANCER?



Over the years, cancer research has examined the role curcumin plays in treating this disease. A number of laboratory studies on cancer cells have shown that curcumin does have anticancer effects. These studies have found that curcumin can significantly inhibit the growth, development and movement of cancer throughout the body. It seems to be able to kill cancer cells and prevent more from growing. It has the best effects on breast cancer, bowel cancer, stomach cancer and skin cancer cells. A 2007 American study that combined curcumin with chemotherapy to treat bowel cancer cells in a laboratory showed that the combined treatment killed more cancer cells than the chemotherapy alone. A 2007 American study in mice seemed to show that curcumin helped to stop the spread of breast cancer cells to other parts of the body. Doctors think that curcumin stays in the digestive system and is absorbed by the cells in the bowel. Several studies have shown that curcumin taken as capsules does get absorbed by the gut and is present in the blood.  One of the mechanisms by which it does this is reducing the growth of new blood vessels in tumors (otherwise known as angiogenesis) and can also directly contribute to the death of cancerous cells. Scientists discovered that turmeric is effective in killing cancer cells and also preventing their growth. According to the American Cancer Society, tests indicate that curcumin "interferes with several important molecular pathways involved in cancer development, growth and spread" and has boosted the effects of chemotherapy in animals. Curcumin has the potential for treatment of cancers including colon, breast, prostate, lung, skin and bowel. Curcumin shows a strong ability to kill cancer cells as well as inhibit their growth, boost antioxidant levels and balance the immune system. It seems to work on improving mitochondrial function at a cellular level. Even against drug-resistant strains of leukemia, curcumin caused cell death of cancer cells. Curcumin has been shown to substitute chemotheraphy for colorectal cancersand in miltidrug resistant cancers. The ability of curcumin to regulate a variety of signaling pathways involved in cell growth, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis in preclinical studies elicited scientific interest in its potential as an anticancer agent in tumor therapy. Curcumin is one of the most powerful and promising chemopreventive and anticancer agents, and epidemiological evidence demonstrates that people who incorporate high doses of this spice in their diets have a lower incidence of cancer. Curcumin's epigenetic modulation has been studied by the US National Cancer Institute (NCI) and academic investigators around the world. Because of low toxicity and great efficacy in multiple in vitro and in vivo cancer models, Curcumin was selected for further development, put through extensive toxicology testing and has successively made it through the first stages (Phase I) of clinical testing abroad and is currently in clinical trials at several sites in the U.S. A phase I clinical trial looked at giving curcumin to 25 patients with pre cancerous changes in different organs. This study seemed to show that curcumin could stop the precancerous changes becoming cancer. Numerous mechanisms have been described for the anticancer activity of Curcumin. Researchers at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX state that Curcumin has “enormous” potential to prevent and treat cancer. Curcumin was able to suppress tumor formation, growth, and even metastasis according to their review. Currently, there are clinical trials being conducted on the effects of Curcumin on patients with bowel cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, tests have shown that curcumin can kill cancer cells in laboratory dishes, and also slow the growth of the surviving cells. Furthermore, it has been found to reduce the development of several forms of cancer in lab animals, while also shrinking various animal tumors. A review - Anticancer Potential of Curcumin: Preclinical and Clinical Studies - in Anticancer Research concluded that, "…it is quite apparent that curcumin has tremendous potential for prevention and therapy of various cancers." Another study on the role of curcumin in cancer therapy found that, "Research over the last few decades has shown that curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory agent with strong therapeutic potential against a variety of cancers. Curcumin has been shown to suppress transformation, proliferation and metastasis of tumors," and called for additional and larger controlled studies to determine its full potential. Inhibition of proliferation of tumor cells, induction of apoptosis (a mode of cell death), inhibition of transformation of cells from normal to tumor, inhibition of invasion and metastasis and suppression of inflammation have been linked with the activity of Curcumin. Down-regulation of COX2, 5-LOX, adhesion molecules, inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, growth factor receptors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transcription factors by Curcumin have been linked to its antitumor activity.



An American phase 2 study reported in 2008. 25 patients had curcumin treatment and 21 had tumours that could be measured. In 2 patients their tumors shrank or remained stable. In some patients their levels of particular immune system chemicals that destroy cancer cells went up. 
Curcumin also has been studied with regards to the core inflammatory gene signal, NF-kappaB, resulting in a beneficial domino effect throughout the body. One benefit of this domino effect is a direct reduction in the risk of cancer from overweight-induced inflammation. 
Curcumin has been found to induce cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis by regulating a variety of cell-signaling pathways (3, 41-45). For example, the inhibition of cell proliferation by curcumin has been associated with the Nrf2-dependent downregulation of DNA repair-specific flap endonuclease 1 (Fen1) in breast cancer cells in culture. 
Curcumin has been shown to induce p53-dependent or -independent apoptosis depending on the cancer cell type. In a panel of cancer cell lines, p53-independent apoptosis induced by curcumin was mediated by the rapid increase of ROS and the activation of MAPK and c-jun kinase (JNK) signaling cascades. 
Inhibition of NF-κB signaling by curcumin also suppresses proliferation and induces apoptosis in cancer cells. 

Inhibition of tumor invasion and angiogenesis 
Malignant and aggressive forms of cancer can invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant tissues once cancer cells have acquired the ability to leave the primary site (reduced cell-to-cell adhesion and loss of polarity), migrate, and disseminate. 
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the process by which epithelial cells acquire the ability to migrate and invade through downregulating proteins like E-cadherin and γ-catenin and expressing mesenchymal markers like MMPs, N-cadherin, and vimentin. 
In breast cancer cells, curcumin prevented EMT-associated morphological changes induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) while upregulating E-cadherin and downregulating vimentin. It was further shown that curcumin inhibited NF-κB/Snail signaling involved in LPS-induced EMT. 
In another study, curcumin increased the expression of the small non-coding RNA miR181b, which then downregulated proinflammatory cytokines, CXCL1 and CXCL2, as well as MMPs, thereby reducing the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells. 
Curcumin inhibited IL-6-induced proliferation, migration, and invasiveness of human small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cells by reducing JAK/STAT3 phosphorylation (i.e., activation) and downstream genes coding for cyclin B1, survivin, Bcl-XL, MMPs, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). 
Curcumin was found to exert its anticancer activities in many different types of cancer cells by regulating a variety of signaling pathways. Combining curcumin with anticancer drugs like gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer, docetaxel in breast cancer, and imatinib in chronic myeloid leukemia may be safe and well tolerated. A recent single-arm, phase II trial combining three cycles of docetaxel/prednisone and curcumin (6 g/day) was carried out in 26 patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer. The level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was decreased in most patients and was normalized in 36% of them, and the co-administration of curcumin with drugs showed no toxicity beyond adverse effects already related to docetaxel monotherapy. Many registered phase I/II clinical trials designed to investigate the effectiveness of curcumin alone or with first-line treatment in patients with breast, prostate, pancreatic, lung, or colorectal cancer are under way. Research into preventing cancer: A phase I clinical trial looked at giving curcumin to 25 patients with pre cancerous changes in different organs. This study showed how curcumin could stop the precancerous changes becoming cancer. A number of laboratory studies on cancer cells have shown that curcumin does have anticancer effects. It kills cancer cells and prevent more from growing. It has the best effects on breast cancer, bowel cancer, stomach cancer and skin cancer cells. A 2007 American study that combined curcumin with chemotherapy to treat bowel cancer cells in a laboratory showed that the combined treatment killed more cancer cells than the chemotherapy alone. A 2007 American study in mice showed that curcumin helped to stop the spread of breast cancer cells to other parts of the body. 
Doctors think that curcumin stays in the digestive system and is absorbed by the cells in the bowel. Several studies have shown that curcumin taken as capsules does get absorbed by the gut and is present in the blood.A number of activities of curcumin, which are exerted in a chemopreventive and a directly therapeutic manner, indicate that it may be a potential anticancer remedy.



Although the results have been obtained in animal models, curcumin has been demonstrated to be active in various other in vitro models, and the dosages are comparable to those used in humans. In vitro and in vivo studies have indicated that curcumin prevents carcinogenesis by affecting two primary processes: angiogenesis and tumor growth. Turmeric and curcuminoids influence tumor angiogenesis through multiple, interdependent processes (2): i) Action at the level of transcription factors associated with inflammatory processes and early growth response protein which reduces the expression of IL­8 in pancreatic and head and neck cancer cell lines and prevents the induction of VEGF synthesis; ii) inhibition of angiogenesis mediated by NO (nitric oxide) and iii) inhibition of COX­2 and 5­LOX; iv) action at the level of angiogenic factors: VEGF, the primary factor for migration, sprouting, survival and proliferation during angiogenesis, and basic fibroblast growth factor. Curcumin induces cell death in numerous animal and human cell lines, including leukemia, melanoma, and carcinomas of the breast, lung, colon, kidney, ovaries and liver. It appears to function by caspase­dependent and independent (mitochondrial) mechanisms, which are associated with the presence and absence of p53. Androgen­dependent LNCaP prostate cancer cells were injected subcutaneously into mice fed with a 2% curcumin containing diet for up to 6 weeks (11). Curcumin significantly increased the extent of apoptosis, as measured by an in situ cell death assay, and caused a reduction in cell proliferation, as measured by a BrdU incorporation assay. Curcumin alone induced a 49–55% reduction in mean ovarian cancer tumor growth compared with control animals, while the combination of curcumin with docetaxel resulted in a 77% reduction in mean tumor growth compared with the controls. In an animal study, the administration of curcumin decreased the number of lung tumor nodules and inhibited lung metastasis of melanoma. Therefore, it is possible to use curcumin in order to arrest the metastatic growth of tumor cells. A study conducted in 2014 revealed that curcumin was able to obstruct tumor growth and metastasis in several animals’ organs including the stomach, colon, and liver. Curcumin has been studied as a beneficial herb in cancer treatment and been found to affect cancer growth, development and spread at the molecular level. Studies have shown that it can contribute to the death of cancerous cells and reduce angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels in tumors) and metastasis (spread of cancer). Multiple studies indicate that curcumin can reduce the growth of cancerous cells in the laboratory and inhibit the growth of tumors in test animals. Whether high-dose curcumin (preferably with an absorption enhancer like piperine) can help treat cancer in humans has yet to be studied properly. However, there is evidence that it may prevent cancer from occurring in the first place, especially cancers of the digestive system like colorectal cancer. In a 30-day study in 44 men with lesions in the colon that sometimes turn cancerous, 4 grams of curcumin per day reduced the number of lesions by 40%. A 2007 study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that curcumin compares favorably with oxaliplatin as an antiproliferative agenet in colorectal cell lines. A 2010 study showed a profound reduction in the incidence of colorectal carcinoma when curcumin is introduced. But it goes beyond colorectal cancer, one of the most preventative forms of cancer. Curcumin, according to a 2007 review, is capable of inhibiting the growth of cancer cells in skin, oral, intestinal, and colon cancers. Animal models show that not only does curcumin block growth of cancer cells in these models, but it also increases the number of cancer-fighting enzymes in the system. Wow! A 2011 study works to quantify the prohibitive properties of curcumin on cancer cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. This type of cancer is the 6th most commonly-diagnosed cancer in the United States. That study showed curcumin not only works as a treatment for squamous cell carcinomas with incredibly promising results, but it has also been shown to demonstrate powerful anti-cancer properties. Part of the excitement surrounding the potential anti-cancer benefits of curcumin revolves around the safety of use of the compound. It is considered pharmacologically safe, which means there are no known drug interactions or specific reactions among patients, making it extremely well-tolerated. For more evidence that turmeric with curcumin in particular being a powerful anti-cancer compound, we need only look at the rates of cancer in parts of the world where turmeric is consumed in higher quantities. A 2012 study indicates that rates of colorectal cancer in India are among the lowest in the developed world. Another study from 2016 shows that Indian women are less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer, as well. Part of the reason for the lowered cancer rates in India has been attributed to diet, with turmeric and curcumin being major dietary contributors in that part of the world.




HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST ARTHRITIS?

Arthritis is a pro-inflammatory disorder. A recent study out of Japan evaluated its relationship with the inflammatory cytokine known to be involved in in the rheumatoid arthritis process. Scientists discovered that curcumin “significantly reduced” these inflammatory markers. In fact its anti-inflammatory qualities are so strong a 2007 study compared curcumin and cortisone and found they were equal in potency. A few studies have found that curcumin can reduce pain from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, sometimes as much as anti-inflammatory drugs. An Iranian clinical trial in Phytotherapy Research in 2014 found that curcumin taken for six weeks, improved symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, compared to a placebo. Most pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories are contraindicated to use over the long-term, but turmeric is not only safe but beneficial for your overall wellbeing. Curcumin's anti-inflammatory properties also make it a strong candidate for treating inflammatory diseases such as osteoarthritis. A 2014 study in the Clinical Interventions in Aging found that curcumin extracts "were as effective as ibuprofen for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis." All current drugs approved for arthritis have anti-inflammatory activity. Anti-TNF (tumor necrosis factor) therapy has been approved for this disease. Curcumin has been shown to both suppress the TNF production, block the action of TNF, and have activity against arthritis. When inflammation is reduced, the added benefit is pain relief. A double-blind, crossover study showed that Curcumin may be effective in relieving pain and improvements in morning stiffness, walking time, and joint swelling. A preliminary intervention trial that compared curcumin with a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in 18 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) found that improvements in morning stiffness, walking time, and joint swelling after two weeks of curcumin supplementation (1.2 g/day) were comparable to those experienced after two weeks of phenylbutazone (NSAID) therapy (300 mg/day). In a more recent randomized, open-label study in 45 RA patients, supplementation with a mixture of all three major curcuminoids (0.5 g/day for eight weeks) was found to be as effective as diclofenac (NSAID; 50 mg/day) in reducing measures of disease activity, tenderness, and swelling joints. Several studies have shown curcumin’s ability to reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints afflicted by arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation suggests that those with arthritis who wish to seek relief take capsules of curcumin powder, between 400 mg to 600 mg, three times a day. Given that curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory compound, it makes sense that it may help with arthritis. Several studies show this to be true. In a study in people with rheumatoid arthritis, curcumin was even more effective than an anti-inflammatory drug (42). Many other studies have looked at the effects of curcumin on arthritis and noted improvements in various symptoms. A 1986 in vitro and ex vivo study published in the journal Arzneimittelforschung found that curcumin has anti-platelet and prostacyclin modulating effects compared to aspirin, indicating it may have value in patients prone to vascular thrombosis and requiring anti-arthritis therapy.


HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST CROHN'S DISEASE AND ULCERATIVE COLITIS?

Crohn’s disease is a pro-inflammatory disease. All current drugs approved for this disease have anti-inflammatory activity. Anti-TNF therapy has been approved for this disease. Curcumin has been shown to both suppress the TNF production and the TNF action. Several clinical trials suggest that curcumin can help people with this inflammatory bowel disease. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology featured a study in 2015 which found that in people with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis who took standard medication (mesalamine), the addition of a high-dose curcumin supplement helped half of them achieve remission after four weeks; none of those given a placebo benefited. Curcumin taken orally has been shown to have activity against inflammatory bowel disease. Study results suggest that Curcumin could have a protective role in ulcerative colitis via regulation of oxidant/anti-oxidant balance and modulation of the release of some inflammatory endocoids, namely TNF-alpha and NO. Curcumin maintenance therapy for ulcerative colitis: randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The development of DSS-induced colitis was significantly attenuated by curcumin. Inhibition of p38 MAPK signaling by curcumin could explain the reduced COX-2 and iNOS immunosignals and the nitrite production in colonic mucosa, reducing the development of chronic experimental colitis. In addition, Curcumin seems promising with regards to remission in patients with quiescent Ulcerative Colitis. Preliminary evidence suggests that curcumin might be useful as an add-on therapy to control disease activity. One multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study has examined the efficacy of curcumin enema (2 g/day) in the prevention of relapse in 82 patients with quiescent UC . Six-month treatment with curcumin significantly reduced measures of disease activity and severity and resulted in a lower relapse rate than with placebo in subjects on standard-of-care medication (sulfasalazine or mesalamine). In another randomized controlled trial in active UC patients treated with mesalamine, the percentage of patients in clinical remission was significantly higher after a one-month treatment with oral curcumin (3 g/day) than with placebo. Curcumin in Combination With Mesalamine Induces Remission in Patients With Mild-to-Moderate Ulcerative Colitis in a Randomized Controlled Trial. Another study conducted in the UK revealed that those with IBS who took two capsules of turmeric every day over the course of eight weeks experienced less abdominal pain and had more consistent bowel movements. A recent study from the American Gastroenterological Association suggests that curcumin may help ease ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease that causes ulcers in the digestive tract. Turmeric has been known for a long time to help with digestive problems. For example, it helps very well with bad digestion of fats. But even if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease, turmeric can mean a great deal to you. This is partly because it prevents inflammation in the intestinal wall. Curcumin can also be a solution for people with a stomach ulcer. In a clinical study, five patients with a stomach ulcer were given five times 600 mg of curcumin every day for 12 weeks. Almost half of them had no stomach ulcers after four weeks, and by the end of the study, the gastric ulcer had disappeared by 76%.



HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST OBESITY AND METABOLIC SYNDROME?


Obesity is Inflammatory Disease. "Scientists led by Dr David Fairlie from the University of Queensland, Australia, have found abnormal amounts of an inflammatory protein called PAR2 in the fat tissues of overweight and obese rats and humans. PAR2 is also increased on the surfaces of human immune cells by common fatty acids in the diet. When obese rats on a diet high in sugar and fat were given a new oral drug that binds to PAR2, the inflammation-causing properties of this protein were blocked, as were other effects of the high-fat and high-sugar diet, including obesity itself." In the prevention and treatment of obesity and metabolic syndrome, Curcumin has been reported to modulate numerous targets that have been linked to obesity and insulin resistance. 1) Curcumin has been shown to downregulate the expression of TNF in various tissues. 2) Curcumin can suppress NF-κB activation induced by a wide variety of inflammatory agents through inhibition of degradation of IκBα. 3) Curcumin can inhibit the activation of IKK linked to the activation of NF-κB, and this leads to the suppression of expression of inflammatory biomarkers such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor. 4) Curcumin has been shown to downregulate the expression of various NF-κB-regulated proinflammatory adipocytokines including chemokines (such as MCP-1, MCP-4, and eotaxin) (199) and interleukins (IL-1, IL-6, and IL-8). Curcumin also suppressed the expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 through the inhibition of the transcription factor early growth response (Egr)-1 gene product that has been closely linked with insulin resistance and obesity. 5) Curcumin has been reported to mimic most antidiabetic drugs in that it activates PPAR-γ in hepatic stellate cells. 6) Curcumin has been shown to downregulate activation of c-Jun NH2 terminal kinase. 7) Curcumin has been shown to inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which is closely linked to obesity. Later studies have indicated that Curcumin inhibits Wnt pathway signaling through downregulation of the transcription coactivator p300. Another potential mechanism by which Curcumin could inhibit β-catenin signaling is through inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β, which directly causes the phosphorylation of β-catenin. Curcumin was found to inhibit GSK-3β with as little as 66 nM IC50 (32). 8) Curcumin has been shown to induce the expression of hemeoxygenase (HO)-1 through the activation of Nrf2 in pancreatic cells and thus mediate the survival of these cells. 9) Curcumin downregulates the secretion of insulin-like growth factor-1 but induces the expression of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3. 10) Curcumin interrupts leptin signaling by reducing phosphorylation levels of the leptin receptor (Ob-R) and its downstream targets. 11) Curcumin suppresses gene expression of Ob-R in HSCs. 12) Curcumin has been reported to increase the expression of adiponectin, which negatively controls obesity. A study conducted by researchers at Tufts University found that curcumin, the predominant polyphenol in turmeric, suppressed the growth of fat tissue in mice and cell models and ultimately reduce weight gain. Two groups of mice were fed high-fat diets—one supplemented with 500 mg of curcumin per kilogram of weight. The curcumin group did not gain weight as the high-fat-only group.


HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST PSORIASIS?

Psoriasis is another pro-inflammatory disease. Considerable evidence, both in animals and humans, indicates that Curcumin may be effective against psoriasis. Curcumin protects skin by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Unlike many antioxidants, Curcumin is capable of both preventing free radical formation, as well as neutralizing existing free radicals, and is considered an effective bioprotectant due to this dual activity. Curcumin is known for neutralizing free radicals, chemicals that damage healthy cells and membranes. That's what makes it a powerful antioxidant. It was also found to reduce wound-healing time, increase collagen growth and increase blood flow to the skin. This study on curcumin and skin found it is highly beneficial for scleroderma, psoriasis and skin cancer.


HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST DEPRESSION AND MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER?


The core issue of depression has finally been identified as inflammation, and curcumin has been found to be comparable to prescription antidepressant drugs. In one 2014 study published in Phytotherapy Research, scientists studied 60 patients with serious depression over a six-week trial and found that turmeric was as effective at treating depression as Prozac.  This randomized control trial took 60 volunteers diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) and compared the effect of curcumin to fluoxetine (Prozac). Researchers discovered that the principal curcuminoid in turmeric is not only as effective as Prozac in managing depression, but it doesn’t carry with it all the dangerous side effects as anti-depressive drugs do. One-third of the participants in the study were given 20 mg of fluoxetine (which is sold under the prescription names Prozac and Sarafem), one-third were given 1,000 mg of curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric), and one one-third were given a combination of both.  "Curcumin, an active ingredient of Curcuma longa Linn (Zingiberaceae), has shown potential antidepressant-like activity in animal studies,” the researchers wrote. “The objectives of this trial were to compare the efficacy and safety of curcumin with fluoxetine in patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).” They concluded that curcumin was “well tolerated” by all the patients. All three groups showed approximately equal improvement in their depression, whether they were taking the turmeric, the antidepressant or a combination of both.“This study provides first clinical evidence that curcumin may be used as an effective and safe modality for treatment in patients with MDD without concurrent suicidal ideation or other psychotic disorders. A new study, published online ahead of print in the Journal of Affective Disorders, finds that the spice curcumin, a derivative of turmeric, may be an effective treatment for depression. The study was a randomized, placebo-controlled trial (the gold standard methodology for medication studies). The researchers found that curcumin was better than a placebo treatment, and those with atypical depression were far more likely to improve.The use of curcumin appeared especially effective for those with atypical depression. Atypical depression, despite its name, is relatively common (around 40% of MDD cases). The “atypical” moniker refers to its particular features: excessive sleep, weight gain, mood improvement in response to positive events, heavy, immovable feelings in the limbs, and interpersonal rejection sensitivity. Atypical depression is considered to have a more chronic course, with worse outcomes overall, so the potential for a viable treatment with fewer side effects than current medications provides hope for an improved prognosis. Previous studies have shown evidence that curcumin could be an effective treatment for depression and found minimal side effects. This study adds to the literature by comparing several doses of curcumin as well as a curcumin/saffron combination treatment. A 2006 study published in Brain Research examined the effects of curcumin administration to laboratory rats after exposure to a chronic stress protocol. Researchers found that curcumin supplementation had a beneficial effect on reducing stress-related symptoms of depression. A 2008 study in Psychopharmacology showed curcumin increased serotonin production and had an antidepressant effect on laboratory mice exposed to several lab tests. In a six-week, randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study in 60 MDD patients, supplemental curcumin (~880 mg/day of curcuminoids) alone yielded a similar response rate to the antidepressant, fluoxetine (a serotonin reuptake inhibitor [Prozac]; 20 mg/day) in terms of depressive symptoms. A 2009 review published in Scientific World Journal hypothesizes that curcumin from turmeric may provide benefits for depression by assisting with the regulation of brain neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin and inhibiting the monoamine oxidase enzyme, which plays a role in breaking down these neurotransmitters.  The neurotransmitters are also what Prozac treats, helping serotonin be used effectively by the brain.  Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder associated with abnormal neurotransmission; it is primarily treated with drugs that improve the bioavailability of neurotransmitters like serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine in the brain. Characteristics of MDD also include alterations in the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, increased neuroinflammation, defective neurogenesis, and neuronal death. A few clinical studies have examined the effect of curcumin alone or with conventional antidepressant drugs in MDD patients. A recent meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials found that supplementation with curcumin significantly reduced depression symptoms. Moreover, in a randomized controlled study in 100 participants taking escitalopram (a serotonin reuptake inhibitor [Lexapro]; 5 to 15 mg/week), supplemental curcumin (1,000 mg/day) for six weeks increased the antidepressant effect of the medication. Curcumin also induced a reduction in plasma concentrations of inflammatory markers and an increase in plasma concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor compared to placebo (antidepressant drug alone). A 2014 study involving 56 people with major depressive disorder revealed that 500 mg of curcumin taken twice a day for eight weeks could ease mood-related symptoms.  In a controlled trial, 60 people with depression were randomized into three groups. One group took Prozac, another group one gram of curcumin and the third group both Prozac and curcumin. After 6 weeks, curcumin had led to improvements that were similar to Prozac. The group that took both Prozac and curcumin fared best. According to this small study, curcumin is as effective as an antidepressant. Depression is also linked to reduced levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and a shrinking hippocampus, a brain area with a role in learning and memory. Curcumin boosts BDNF levels, potentially reversing some of these changes. There is also some evidence that curcumin can boost the brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. A 2011 study published in the journal Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica found that curcumin compared favorably to both drugs in reducing depressive behavior in an animal model.


HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AS AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY?



Did evolution give us inflammatory disease? Researchers demonstrate that some variants in our genes that could put a person at risk for inflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease or rheumatoid arthritis, have been the target of natural selection over the course of human history. -  Science Daily Magazine. One 10-day “study of origin” suggests that a short period of return to the “conditions of existence” similar to those on which our genome is based may improve anthropometrics and metabolism by favorably challenging the immune system in apparently healthy subjects. The “return” may come with some costs in more active infection, as a trade-off for the “chronic systemic low-grade inflammation” typical of our current lifestyle of affluence. Chronic inflammation may be the engine that drives many of the most feared illnesses of middle and old age. This concept suggests a new and possibly much simpler way of warding off disease. Instead of different treatments for, say, heart disease, Alzheimer's and colon cancer, there might be a single, inflammation-reducing remedy that would prevent all three. This 'inflammation theory' explains how immune-system errors are linked to more illnesses. Medical researchers are becoming increasingly convinced that the most primitive part of the immune system (inflammation), may play a crucial role in some of the most devastating afflictions of modern humans, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes and possibly Alzheimer's. In another study, findings suggest that in the past, gene variants rose in frequency in the human population to help protect us against viruses, bacteria and other pathogens. But now in our modern world, the environment and exposure to pathogens has changed, and the genetic variants that were originally meant to protect us, now make an autoimmune reaction more likely. These results are consistent with the hygiene hypothesis in which our cleaner environment is thought to contribute to the increasing prevalence of inflammatory diseases.  While short-term inflammation in the body is a necessary component of a functioning system, helping to fight off pathogenic invasion and repairing tissue and muscle damage, chronic inflammation is widely attributed with almost every disease known to the Western world. This includes heart disease, cancer and a whole host of neurological disorders. The high concentrations of curcumin contained in turmeric act to target multiple steps in the inflammatory pathway, blocking inflammatory markers at the molecular level and thereby significantly lowering long-term inflammation in your body. Whether we are healing from an injury or an autoimmune disease, inflammation is a common health challenge. Nutritionists, functional medicine GP’s and physiotherapists commonly use curcumin for it’s anti-inflammatory qualities. And it’s no wonder considering six major scientific trials all found curcumin to possess a potent anti-inflammatory action, which is completely non-toxic in nature. A study evaluating several pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories found that aspirin and ibuprofen are the least potent, while curcumin is among the most potent anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative agents available. Inflammation is thought to be one of the major factors in all kinds of diseases, and turmeric contains loads of curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory substance. No word on whether it works on politicians' speeches (hah!). It's been shown to alleviate joint pain, and can even help with heartburn and indigestion. Researchers are also looking at curcumin for its anti-aging properties. Turmeric is safe and non-toxic and has been studied for anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting various molecules that contribute to inflammation such as lipooxygenase, COX-2, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, nitric oxide, interferon-inducible protein, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interleukin-12 (IL-12).  One study compared the effectiveness of Curcumin – the active ingredient in turmeric – and a popular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) called phenylbutazone. At the end of the six days, those taking the Curcumin and the NSAID enjoyed a significantly better anti-inflammatory response than placebo. The spice worked as well as the drug, but without the negative side effects. "Because of the crucial role of inflammation in most chronic diseases, the potential of Curcumin has been examined in neoplastic, neurological, cardiovascular, pulmonary and metabolic diseases. The pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of Curcumin have been examined in animals and in humans." - Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2009 Feb;30(2):85-94. Pharmacological basis for the role of curcumin in chronic diseases: an age-old spice with modern targets. Curcumin has also been shown to inhibit mediators of the inflammatory response, including cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, growth factors, and enzymes like cyclooxygenase (COX), lipoxygenase (LOX), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a transcription factor that binds DNA and induces the transcription of the COX-2 gene, other pro-inflammatory genes, and genes involved in cell proliferation, adhesion, survival, and differentiation. The anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin result from its ability to inhibit the NF-κB pathway, as well as other pro-inflammatory pathways like the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)- and the Janus kinase (JAK)/Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-dependent signaling pathways. Inhibition of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis by curcumin in mice has been associated with a downregulation of the expression of p38-MAPK and pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and a reduction of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, a marker of neutrophil infiltration in intestinal mucosa. Curcumin has also been shown to improve colitis by preventing STAT3 activation and STAT3-dependent induction of cell proliferation in mouse colon. Moreover, curcumin was shown to attenuate the immune response triggered by collagen injections in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis, partly by blocking the proliferation of T lymphocytes in mouse splenocytes. In addition, curcumin has been found to reduce the secretion of TNF-α and IL-1β and the production of COX-2-induced prostaglandin G2. In one study, curcumin inhibited the secretion of matrix metalloproteins (MMPs) — responsible for the degradation of the synovial joints — in human fibroblast-like synoviocytes and in human articular chondrocytes. Curcumin has also been found to alleviate neuro-inflammation in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury, reducing macrophage and microglial activation and increasing neuronal survival. A placebo-controlled trial in 40 men who had surgery to repair an inguinal hernia or hydrocele found that oral curcumin supplementation (1.2 g/day) for five days was more effective than placebo in reducing post-surgical edema, tenderness and pain, and was comparable to phenylbutazone therapy (300 mg/day). Scientists now believe that chronic, low-level inflammation plays a major role in almost every chronic, Western disease. This includes heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, Alzheimer's and various degenerative conditions. Therefore, anything that can help fight chronic inflammation is of potential importance in preventing and even treating these diseases. Curcumin is strongly anti-inflammatory. In fact, it’s so powerful that it matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs, without the side effects. It blocks NF-kB, a molecule that travels into the nuclei of your cells and turns on genes related to inflammation. NF-kB is believed to play a major role in many chronic diseases. The key takeaway is that curcumin is a bioactive substance that fights inflammation at the molecular level.  A 1999 study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that the primary polyphenol in turmeric, the saffron colored pigment known as curcumin, compared favorably to steroids in the management of chronic anterior uveitis, an inflammatory eye disease. A 2008 study published in Critical Care Medicine found that curcumin compared favorably to the corticosteroid drug dexamethasone in the animal model as an alternative therapy for protecting lung transplantation-associated injury by down-regulating inflammatory genes. An earlier 2003 study published in Cancer Letters found the same drug also compared favorably to dexamethasone in a lung ischaemia-repurfusion injury model. A 2004 study published in the journal Oncogene found that curcumin (as well as resveratrol) were effective alternatives to the drugs aspirin, ibuprofen, sulindac, phenylbutazone, naproxen, indomethacin, diclofenac, dexamethasone, celecoxib, and tamoxifen in exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity against tumor cells.


HOW MAY CURCUMIN WORK AGAINST CARDIOVASCULAR HEART DISEASE?




Curcumin may help reverse many steps in the heart disease process. Perhaps the main benefit of curcumin when it comes to heart disease is improving the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of your blood vessels. It’s well known that endothelial dysfunction is a major driver of heart disease and involves an inability of your endothelium to regulate blood pressure, blood clotting and various other factors. Several studies suggest that curcumin leads to improvements in endothelial function. One study found that it’s as effective as exercise while another shows that it works as well as the drug Atorvastatin (30, 31). In addition, curcumin reduces inflammation and oxidation (as discussed above), which play a role in heart disease as well. One study randomly assigned 121 people, who were undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery, either a placebo or 4 grams of curcumin per day, a few days before and after the surgery. The curcumin group had a 65% decreased risk of experiencing a heart attack in the hospital. A study in Nutrition Research in 2012, postmenopausal women who took curcumin for eight weeks had an improvement in arterial function, comparable to that seen in women who engaged in aerobic exercise. Another study in Phytotherapy Research in 2013 found that curcumin reduced triglycerides, while a study in 2014 found that curcumin significantly reduced LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides in people with metabolic syndrome. Curcumin also helps the endothelium (the lining of blood vessels) to function at its optimum level, similar to the effect found during intense exercise. Studies have shown that endothelial dysfunction is a common cause of heart disease, occurring when the endothelium is no longer able to regulate blood pressure, clotting and a number of other factors. Therefore, by improving endothelial function, curcumin lowers your risk of heart disease. In addition to helping out the endothelium, curcumin also reduces inflammation and oxidative damage, two factors that are also common contributors to heart disease. One study on 121 people—all of whom were undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery—found that the group taking 4 grams of curcumin for a few days before and after the surgery were much less likely to experience a heart attack. Other studies have revealed that the anti-inflammatory action of turmeric helps prevent artery disease. Valdez points out that recent studies suggest curcumin can protect the heart from ischemia—an inadequate blood supply to an organ or part of the body, particularly the muscles within the heart. A 2008 study published in the journal Drugs in R & D found that a standardized preparation of curcuminoids from Turmeric compared favorably to the drug atorvastatin (trade name Lipitor) on endothelial dysfunction, the underlying pathology of the blood vessels that drives atherosclerosis, in association with reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetic patients. Curcumin tablets were found to enhance the functioning of endothelium lining in the heart’s blood vessels. Any abnormality in the endothelial functioning can cause blood pressure or cause blood clotting. This dysregulation then leads to heart disease. Recent research literature on Curcumin supplement intake suggest its treatment potential on par with the drug Atorvastatin or regular moderate exercise. Moreover, the already proven benefits of Curcumin/Turmeric in terms of their anti-inflammation and anti-oxidation properties has a benign influence on the heart as well. Even coronary artery bypass surgery patients were found to have a significant decreased risk of suffering a relapse heart attack upon starting a Curcumin capsule regimen.


WHAT ARE THE SCIENTIFIC PROPERTIES OF CURCUMIN?



Chemical NameDiferuloylmethane
DefinitionA β-diketone that is methane in which two of the hydrogens are
substituted by feruloyl groups
Systemic Name(1E,6E)-1,7-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione)
Chemical FormulaC21H20O
Molar mass368.38 g/mol
AppearanceBright yellow-orange powder
Melting Point183 °C, 361 °F
PubChem969516
BiofunctionEnzyme cofactor
Chemical TaxonomyOrganic Chemicals / Hydrocarbons / Aromatic Compounds /  Phenols / Cate
chols / Curcuminoids
Chemical Structure
Organic TaxonomyKingdom
Subkingdom
Superdivision
Division
Class
Subclass
Order
Family
Genus
Species
Plantae (Plants)
Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)
Spermatophyta  (Seed plants)
Magnoliophyta  (Flowering plants)
Liliopsida  (Monocotyledons)
Zingiberidae
Zingiberales
Zingiberaceae  (Ginger family)
Curcuma (Curcuma)
Curcuma longa  (Turmeric)


WHY TURMERIC ROOT EXTRACT CURCUMIN MAY PROVIDE HEALTH BENEFITS?

Certain plants manufacture chemicals that repel predators, parasites and diseases. Like most of these pharmacologically-active metabolites, Curcumin is involved in self-defense. Over time, plants with higher levels of organic compounds that deter attackers become more successful, because of their advanced protection. In nature's never-ending interaction between predator and prey, insects evolve the ability to digest plant toxins, while plants evolve stronger chemicals to deter their enemies. Monitoring this evolution between plants and insects represents an important field of ecological research. Scientists have discovered that many phytochemicals manufactured in plants and roots not only prevent insect attack or fight plant infections, but also provide human health benefits. Many cultures create their own botanical pharmacies as the lore of medicinal plants and remedies is handed down through generations of healers. With the advent of sophisticated laboratory testing, biologists are finding that the many indigenous plants and roots from around the world provide medicinal value, and their metabolites are candidates for research. Curcumin’s structure is similar to other natural polyphenolics (chemicals containing multiple "phenol" groups) produced by plants in response to infectious attack. These natural polyphenols often have potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as immune support health benefits. Curcumin from Turmeric, resveratrol from grapes, pterostilbene from blueberries, and catechins from green tea all contain polyphenolic antioxidants and have been studied for medicinal or preventive value. Every medicinal molecule in all of botany is made out of carbon dioxide. CO2 is the key source of carbon used by plants to synthesize everything from Cucumin to resveratrol. Every healing nutrient in basil, oregano, cinnamon, turmeric, garlic and pomegranate fruit is made out of carbon dioxide. Curcumin, a powerful anti-cancer nutrient found in turmeric, is made from carbon dioxide, with 21 carbon molecules manufactured from atmospheric carbon dioxide. Curcumin has been studied for anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities, mediated through the regulation of various transcription factors, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, protein kinases, and other enzymes. Curcumin exhibits activities similar to recently discovered TNF blockers (humira, remicade and enbrel), vascular endothelial cell growth factor blocker (avastin), human epidermal growth factor receptor blockers (erbitux, erlotinib, and geftinib), and HER2 blocker (herceptin). Considering the recent scientific bandwagon that multi-targeted therapy is better than mono-targeted therapy for most diseases, Curcumin is a phytonutrient that can be considered an ideal "Spice for Life". More than 5000 papers published within the past two decades have revealed that Curcumin has extraordinary potential in promoting health through modulation of numerous molecular targets.



WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF CURCUMIN AND TURMERIC?


Turmeric is an ancient spice and a traditional remedy. It has been used in food and as medicine for at least 4,000 years, first in India (Ayuverdic) and other parts of Asia, and later in Africa and the Caribbean. Researchers in India recently identified mineral remnants of turmeric and ginger on the cooking pots of ancient Indus River remains, one of the first urban civilizations.These ancient civilizations have vast trial and error experience with many different herbal remedies and food preparations and they selected curcumin as a food additive and major tool for medicinal use based on efficacy. Numerous therapeutic activities have been assigned to turmeric for a wide variety of diseases and conditions, including those of the skin, pulmonary, and gastro-intestinal systems, aches, pains, wounds  and disorders. The Western world was introduced to turmeric via Marco Polo in the 14th century. For hundreds of years before the Italian vagabond ventured east, it had been used as a spice and natural medicine across India and Asia. Marco Polo, writing of his travels in China, described turmeric: "There is also a vegetable which has all the properties of the true saffron, as well as the color, and yet it is not really saffron. Turmeric is held in great estimation, and being an ingredient in all their dishes, it bears, on that account, a high price."  The Western discovery of curcumin dates to around two centuries ago when Vogel and Pelletier reported the isolation of “yellow coloring-matter” from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa (Turmeric) and named it curcumin. The high degree of reverence is established by the fact that it is used in so many cultures: Burmese: fa nwin. Chinese: wong geung fun, yüchiu. Danish: gurkemeje. Dutch: geelwortel. Finnish: keltajuuri. French: curcuma, saffron des Indes. German: gelbwurz, kurkuma. Icelandic: turmerik. Italian: curcuma tumeric Indian: haldee, haridra, haldi, huldee, huldie. Indonesian: kunjit, kunyit. Japanese: ukon circumin Malay: kunjit. Norwegian: gurkemeie, Polish: klacze kurkumy. Portuguese: açafrão-da-Índia. Russian: zholtymbir. Spanish: azafrán de la India, azafran arabe. Sinhalese: kaha. Swedish: gurkmeja. Tamil: munjal. Thai: ka min. Vietnamese: botnghe



WHY HASN'T THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY PATENTED CURCUMIN?


Pharmaceutical corporations tried registering patents for Curcumin and Turmeric because of the much heralded scientific evidence and the long history of its healing properties. However, that same evidence and history of Curcumin being used medicinally for centuries was the reason the United States Patent and Trademark Office rejected and revoked the rights for Turmeric patent 5401504 on the grounds that the claims were not new: "USPTO unequivocally rejected all six claims made on August 13, 2001 ruling that Turmeric's medicinal properties were not patentable."  University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center states "in the case of Curcumin, a natural compound, no company can reap the benefits if Turmeric shows itself to be an effective anti-cancer drug."




http://www.turmeric-curcumin.com/




NEWS AND PUBLISHED STUDIES ON CURCUMIN AND TURMERIC



January 2018  -  October 2019

Curcumin and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Prevention and Treatment
Nutrients, October 2019

Among these medicinal plants, curcumin is gaining a growing interest in the scientific community. Curcumin is a bioactive molecule present in the rhizome of the Curcuma longa plant, also known as turmeric. Curcumin has different pharmacological and biological effects that have been described by both in vitro and in vivo studies, and include antioxidant, cardio-protective, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, nephro-protective, anti-neoplastic, hepato-protective, immunomodulatory, hypoglycaemic and anti-rheumatic effects. In animal models, curcumin extract delays diabetes development, improves β-cell functions, prevents β-cell death, and decreases insulin resistance. The present review focuses on pre-clinical and clinical trials on curcumin supplementation in T2DM and discusses the peculiar mechanisms by which curcumin might ameliorate diabetes management.


Curcumin May Help Prevent Or Combat Stomach Cancer, Study Finds
Waking Times, October 2019
Curcumin — derived from the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa) — has been used to impart color and flavor to food in many areas of the world. But long ago, scientists discovered that the bright, yellow powder can also help prevent and fight stomach cancer. “We undertook a vast review of the scientific literature on all nutrients and bioactive compounds with the potential to prevent or treat stomach cancer and found that curcumin is one of them,” said Danielle Queiroz Calcagno, first author of the study and a professor at UFPA.

Curcumin-Induced Autophagy Augments Its Antitumor Effect against A172 Human Glioblastoma Cells
Biomolecules & Therapeutics, October 2019
Curcumin, from Curcuma longa, is an effective antitumor agent. Although the same proteins control both autophagy and cell death, the molecular connections between them are complicated and autophagy may promote or inhibit cell death. We investigated whether curcumin affects autophagy, which regulates curcumin-mediated tumor cell death in A172 human glioblastoma cells. When A172 cells were incubated with 10 μM curcumin, autophagy increased in a time-dependent manner. Curcumin-induced cell death was reduced by co-incubation with the autophagy inhibitors 3-methyladenine (3-MA), hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), and LY294002. Curcumin-induced cell death was also inhibited by co-incubation with rapamycin, an autophagy inducer. When cells were incubated under serum-deprived medium, LC3-II amount was increased but the basal level of cell viability was reduced, leading to the inhibition of curcumin-induced cell death. Cell death was decreased by inhibiting curcumin-induced autophagy using small interference RNA (siRNA) of Atg5 or Beclin1. Therefore, curcumin-mediated tumor cell death is promoted by curcumin-induced autophagy, but not by an increase in the basal level of autophagy in rapamycin-treated or serum-deprived conditions. This suggests that the antitumor effects of curcumin are influenced differently by curcumin-induced autophagy and the prerequisite basal level of autophagy in cancer cells

Curcumin attenuates MSU crystal-induced inflammation by inhibiting the degradation of IκBα and blocking mitochondrial damage
Arthritis Research & Therapy, October 2019
Curcumin administration effectively alleviated MSU-induced inflammation by suppressing the degradation of IκBα, the activation NF-κB signaling pathway, the damage of mitochondria, and the activity of NLRP3 inflammasome. Our results provide a new strategy in which curcumin therapy may be helpful in the prevention of acute episodes of gout.

Turmeric Can Support Your Active Lifestyle
Mind Body Green, October 2019
The anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric and its compounds called curcuminoids (specifically curcumin) make the herb work similarly to the anti-inflammatory painkillers in our medicine cabinets. Studies have shown promising results in turmeric's ability to help manage muscular and joint pain after strenuous exercise.

The Health Benefits of Turmeric a Nutritionist Wants You to Know
Yahoo News, October 2019
Several studies have found that the key protective compound in turmeric, called curcumin, reduces inflammation, and its effects are on par with some anti-inflammatory medications. Curcumin also acts as an antioxidant, to counter damaging compounds called free radicals, and fight what’s known as oxidative stress. In a nutshell, oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of cell-damaging free radicals and the body's ability to counter their harmful effects. Because of curcumin's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, turmeric has health benefits for skin, preventing or helping to repair visible signs of aging. Curcumin has also been shown to increase levels of neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain. That’s crucial, because BDNF acts as a type of growth hormone that protects the brain from age-related decline or damage. Low BDNF levels are tied to depression, as well as Alzheimer’s.

Turmeric – the Golden Spice and wonder drug
Deccan Herald, October 2019
Another research finding says: The results obtained from the present review revealed that curcumin can be effective in various types of oxidative associated liver disorders. This potentiality attributes to curcumin effects on hepatotoxicity, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, liver fibrosis and cirrhosis as well as hepatic injury. Experimental evidence indicates that curcumin exhibits its preventive and curative effect against oxidative associated liver diseases.

Pre-administration of curcumin prevents hyperhomocysteinemia in ethanol-induced gastric ulcer
World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, October 2019
Curcumin is a prototype natural product that has been widely recognized as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potentialrole of curcumin supplementation in attenuating the aggressive effect of alcohol in experimental induced gastric ulcer. Whereas, pre-treatment of curcumin prevented the hyperhomocysteinemia and the elevation of TNF-α resultingin a depletion of gastric ulcer. We concluded that, curcumin is considered a promising supplement in attenuating gastric ulcer through its important role in depletion of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Effects of Curcumin and Silymarin on the bacterium Shigella dysenteriae and CampylobacterJournal of Gastrointestinal Cancer, September 2019
In this study, curcumin and silymarin could inhibit the growth of S. dysenteriae and C. jejuni and 100 μg/ml sub-MIC levels exhibited the suppression of housekeeping genes. Combating pathogenic bacteria by compounds alternative to antibiotics in the era of antibiotic resistance is a proper strategy, though more studies using combinations of them are needed.

High blood pressure: Could this popular spice lower your bp reading?Express, September 2019
One study suggests the super spice may also help to lower a blood pressure spike. According to Dr Sinatra, turmeric’s potential blood pressure reducing benefits come from its active ingredient, as he explained: “Its [turmeric] yellow colour comes from curcumin — a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that’s been found to reduce blood pressure by lowering the excess platelet aggregation that occurs in sticky, clot-forming blood." Turmeric could help to control a soaring blood pressure High blood pressure: Turmeric could help to control a soaring blood pressure (Image: Getty Images ) Researchers in a study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, concluded that curcumin works much the same way as ginger as it inhibits the transport of calcium, which acts as a chemical messenger that tells muscle cells to contract, thereby dilating the arteries. Therefore, taking turmeric for high blood pressure, due to its active ingredient curcumin, could be an effective remedy.

Anti-infective Properties of the Golden Spice Curcumin
Frontiers in Microbiology, September 2019
The search for novel anti-infectives is one of the most important challenges in natural product research, as diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi are influencing the human society all over the world. Natural compounds are a continuing source of novel anti-infectives. Accordingly, curcumin, has been used for centuries in Asian traditional medicine to treat various disorders. Numerous studies have shown that curcumin possesses a wide spectrum of biological and pharmacological properties, acting, for example, as anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic and anti-neoplastic, while no toxicity is associated with the compound. Recently, curcumin’s antiviral and antibacterial activity was investigated, and it was shown to act against various important human pathogens like the influenza virus, hepatitis C virus, HIV and strains of Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas.

Turmeric For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Medicaldaily.com September 2019

According to a review article published in the US National Library of Medicine, turmeric is rich in curcumin that has an antioxidant effect, lowers blood sugar, is anti-inflammatory and affords anticancer benefits. Since rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue, patients experience inflammation that leads to bone and joint damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric could alleviate its symptoms. Curcumin In a 2016 systematic review, researchers measured the effectiveness of turmeric and curcumin extracts on arthritis patients. Those who took 1,000 milligrams of curcumin daily for eight to 12 weeks reduced their pain sensations and inflammation which are common symptoms of osteoarthritis. Researchers found that curcumin extracts are effective in treating these symptoms by recommending patients to take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and diclofenac. They, however, noted that there is a need for further research to confirm their findings. Nevertheless, they recommended that arthritis patients may use curcumin as a dietary supplement while undergoing conventional therapy. A subsequent study looked into the effects of curcumin on rats with rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers determined that the component reduced inflammation and redness among the lab rats by blocking an intercellular signaling process called mTOR pathway.

Curcumin as a permeability enhancer enhanced the antihyperlipidemic activity of green tea extract
BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicinevolume 19, September 2019
Curcumin, obtained from Curcuma longa, is used as bio-enhancer for anti-microbial agents and anti-cancer drugs. It shows strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties. Curcumin can recover chemically-induced oxidative stress as well as increase xenobiotic detoxifying enzymes’ activities in both the liver and kidneys and suppress lipid peroxidation. Curcumin has low solubility and low permeability from intestine due to P-glycoprotein pump (P-gp). Curcumin acts by two mechanisms:suppression of drug metabolising enzymes in liver and inducing changes in drug transporter P-gp. Curcumin is initially absorbed from intestine, but is effluxed again inside intestine by P-gp. Curcumin and EGCG both are effluxed by P-gp; hence curcumin can play a pivotal role of inhibiting P-gp, thereby enhancing permeation of EGCG by inhibiting its efflux.

Understanding use of turmeric in herbal medicine
Guardian, September 2019
Curcumin, the major active ingredient in Turmeric has a wide range of medicinal activities and it is composed of phytochemicals, mineral/vitamins and dietary fiber. Minerals in curcumin are magnesium, potassium, sodium, iron, manganese, calcium, phosphorus and selenium. The following vitamins are included in Turmeric, vitamins C, E, K, B6 and folate. Turmeric is a very good source of dietary fiber and fatty acids are w-fatty acid and alpha-linolenic acid. Curcumin possesses anticancer properties along with anti-inflammatory, anti-Alzheimer’s and anti-tumour potentials. It also has hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-rheumatic, anti-diabetic, hypoglycemic and analgesic activities. The essential oils in curcumin are ar-turmerone, alpha-turmerone and beta-turmerone and they are biologically active constituents. These essential oils are endowed with anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidative potentials. The curcuminoids and the volatile essential oils are responsible for the health benefits of turmeric.

7 Benefits of Turmeric
News18.com September 2019
1.Acts against Inflammation: Inflammation can become a major problem when it becomes chronic, inappropriately attacks body’s own tissues. Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, is a naturally and strongly anti-inflammatory. It matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs, without the side effects. 2.Increases Antioxidant Capacity: Antioxidants are beneficial for the body as they protect it from free radicals, which tend to react with important organic substances, such as fatty acids, proteins or DNA. Curcumin has powerful antioxidant effects, which neutralizes free radicals on its own and stimulates body’s own antioxidant enzymes. 3.Lowers the risk of heart disease: Curcumin can help reverse many steps in the heart disease process, as it improves the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of your blood vessels. 4.Helps in Skin Care: Turmeric keeps the skin healthy in many ways, such as keeping pimples at bay by inhibiting the growth of pimple, clearing acne scars and making your skin flawless, healing of a cut and soothing skin irritation, and fighting signs of ageing like wrinkles and pigmentation by curbing the growth of free radicals. 5.Helps in Weight Loss: Turmeric helps in accelerating the metabolism rate and letting the body burn a significant number of calories, leading to weight loss. It is also useful in reducing fat mass and detoxification of the liver, which are essential contributors when it comes to diet-induced weight loss efforts. 6.Improves Brain Function: Turmeric is known to boost cognitive abilities, increase concentration, and boost memory retention. It also protects the neural pathways from long-term oxidative stress and the build-up of plaque. 7.Treats Depression: Curcumin has a similar effect like Prozac on patients suffering from depression, mood swings, anxiety, and stress, making it a powerful alternative to pharmaceutical routes, which often have dangerous or addictive side effects.

Curcumin Inhibits Proliferation and Migration of A549 Lung Cancer CellsNatural Product Communications, August 2019
Curcumin is a major component of turmeric with promising tumor-suppressive activity; however, its underlying molecular mechanisms need to be investigated further. Collectively, our data suggested that curcumin induces autophagy via activating the ERK1/2 pathway and the autophagy is important for the inhibiting effect of curcumin in lung adenocarcinoma cells.

Curcumin plays a dual role: in adjuvant therapy and reversal of drug resistance in acute myelogenous leukemiajournalcmpr, August 2019
The results obtained highlight the potential of curcumin in enhancing the efficacy of cyt and overcoming drug resistance in AML. Thus, this study shows that curcumin may effectively be used as an adjuvant therapy in AML.

Benefits of curcumin in brain disordersBiofactors. 2019 August, 2019
Curcumin is widely consumed in Asia either as turmeric directly or as one of the culinary ingredients in food recipes. The benefits of curcumin in different organ systems have been reported extensively in several neurological diseases and cancer. Curcumin has got its global recognition because of its strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antimicrobial activities. Additionally, it is used in diabetes and arthritis as well as in hepatic, renal, and cardiovascular diseases. Recently, there is growing attention on usage of curcumin to prevent or delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes available data from several recent studies on curcumin in various neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Huntington's disease, Prions disease, stroke, Down's syndrome, autism, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, anxiety, depression, and aging. This review also summarizes the ongoing clinical trials on curcumin for different neurodegenerative diseases and patent details of curcuma/curcumin in India.

Cardiac Rehabilitation-Curcumin, Cardiovascular Disease, Heart Failurepeoplebeatingcancer.com August 2019
Curcumin supplementation can: attenuate adriamycin-induced cardiotoxicity reduce my cholesterol reduce my risk of DVT and stroke helps dissolve my post-thrombotic syndrome All is one inexpensive, non-toxic nutritional supplement. If it sounds as though curcumin is a wonder drug, it is. Curcumin also is cytotoxic (kills) to my cancer, multiple myeloma.  “Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a polyphenol responsible for the yellow color of the curry spice turmeric. It has been used in a variety of diseases in traditional medicine. Modern scientific research has demonstrated its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-thrombotic, and cardiovascular protective effects. In this review, we focused mainly on the effects of curcumin on the cardiovascular system. The antioxidant effects of curcumin have been shown to attenuate adriamycin-induced cardiotoxicity and may prevent diabetic cardiovascular complications. The anti-thrombotic, anti-proliferative, and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin and the effect of curcumin in decreasing the serum cholesterol level may protect against the pathological changes occurring with atherosclerosis. The p300-HAT inhibitory effects of curcumin have been demonstrated to ameliorate the development of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure in animal models. The inflammatory effects of curcumin may have the possibility of preventing atrial arrhythmias and the possible effect of curcumin for correcting the Ca(2+) homeostasis may play a role in the prevention of some ventricular arrhythmias. The preclinical studies from animal to clinical data in human are discussed.” Efficacy and safety of turmeric and curcumin in lowering blood lipid levels in patients with cardiovascular risk factors: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials “Conclusions- Turmeric and curcumin may protect patients at risk of CVD through improving serum lipid levels. Curcumin may be used as a well-tolerated dietary adjunct to conventional drugs.

Curcumin induced oxidative stress attenuation by N-acetylcysteine co-treatmentMolecular Medicine, August 2019
Curcumin has been shown to have a broad range of antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and pro-apoptotic properties (Aggarwal & Sung, 2009). Curcumin has also been reported to have anti-fibrotic capabilities in studies of wound healing, liver fibrosis and lung fibrosis models (Lin et al., 2009; Yao et al., 2012; Zhang et al., 2011; Smith et al., 2010; Chen & Zheng, 2008). At the molecular level, curcumin has been reported to play an anti-fibrotic role by modulating transcription factors such as transforming growth factor beta (Chen et al., 2013; Liu et al., 2016), platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factor and tumor necrosis factor alpha (Shishodia, 2013; Hua et al., 2013; Das & Vinayak, 2014), all of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of IPF. Due to these antifibrotic properties of curcumin, a number of investigators have hypothesized that this compound could serve as a possible therapeutic for IPF (Smith et al., 2010; Liu et al., 2016; Xu et al., 2007). These studies focus on the antifibrotic effects of curcumin and, like many other in-vitro studies, report a reduction in profibrotic responses when pulmonary fibroblasts are treated in isolation.

Foods to Feed Both Body and MindEntrepeneur.com  August 2019
Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. This spice is found in foods from India, Indonesia and Thailand, and has been shown to have any great health benefits. Curcumin is known to boost brain function and lower the risk of brain disease because it increases the levels of an important growth hormone in the brain known as the brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Many of the studies researching the benefits of turmeric use extracts that contain mostly curcumin, in quantities exceeding one gram per day. In order to get the full effects, you may consider taking a supplement that contains curcumin.

Yellow curry spice turmeric could prevent stomach cancer
The London Economic, July 2019The active ingredient curcumin suppress cancer cells and induces apoptosis, or “cell death”, researchers discovered. The review found that curcumin, derived from the roots of the turmeric plant, could also work against gastric tumors. Professor Danielle Queiroz Calcagno said that researchers undertook a vast scientific review. She said: “We looked at all nutrients and bioactive compounds with the potential to prevent or treat stomach cancer and found that curcumin is one of them. “These compounds can favour the activation or repression of genes involved in the development of stomach cancer by promoting or inhibiting histone acetylation.” Curcumin influences histones by inhibiting acetyltransferases to suppress cancer cells and induce apoptosis, or cell death.

Anti-infective Properties of the Golden Spice Curcumin
Frontiers in Microbiology, July 2019
The search for novel anti-infectives is one of the most important challenges in natural product research, as diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi are influencing the human society all over the world. Natural compounds are a continuing source of novel anti-infectives. Accordingly, curcumin, has been used for centuries in Asian traditional medicine to treat various disorders. Numerous studies have shown that curcumin possesses a wide spectrum of biological and pharmacological properties, acting, for example, as anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic and anti-neoplastic, while no toxicity is associated with the compound. Recently, curcumin’s antiviral and antibacterial activity was investigated, and it was shown to act against various important human pathogens like the influenza virus, hepatitis C virus, HIV and strains of Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas. Despite the potency, curcumin has not yet been approved as a therapeutic antiviral agent. This review summarizes the current knowledge and future perspectives of the antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects of curcumin.

Wikipedia Fails Again: The Case of Misinformation about Curcumin
PRN.fm July 2019
Just in the US official scientific library of medicine with almost 12,000 studies, the evidence overwhelmingly supports curcumin’s medicinal and functional benefits. That does not include the thousands of studies in medical journals in other cournties where turmeric has been used as a nutritional enhancer for millennia. Wikipedia’s absurd statement that “although long used in Ayurvedic medicine… no high-quality clinical evidence exists for use of turmeric or its constituent, curcumin, as a therapy,” requires little comment for the hundreds of pages simply listing research about the herb’s medicinal value. 
Just a few of the research study titles include: 

  • Curcumin administration reduces depressive symptoms in patients with major depression (Phytotherapy Research, 2015) 
  • Curcumin or combined curcuminoids are effective in lowering the fasting blood glucose concentrations of individuals with dysglycemia (Pharmacological Research, 2017) 
  • Curcumin appears to enhance clearance of amyloid-beta in Alzheimer’s disease patient (Journal of Alzheimers Disease, 2006) 
  • Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of 4 weeks or longer suggest that curcumin may afford some protection against oxidative stress (Nutrition Research, 2018) 
  • A curcumin extract is appropriate for the care of patients with joint problems and may also contribute to the regeneration of cartilage (Open Rheumatological Journal, 2014) 
  • A daily dose of 3.6 g curcumin achieves pharmacologically efficacious levels in the colorectum with negligible distribution of curcumin outside the gut (Cancer Epidemiological Research, 2005) 
  • A topical preparation of curcumin successfully decreased the markers of lactational mastitis such as pain, breast tension and erythema within 72 hours of administration (Oman Medical Journal, 2014) 
  • Curcumin alleviates ethanol-induced oxidative damage in liver cells (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2010) 

We can trust the accumulation of nearly 12,000 studies in the official peer reviewed data library. We can count upon the countless other studies in the world’s other databases. We can trust the numerous doctors throughout history in culture’s worldwide with proven clinical experience. Or we can trust a tiny group of expert wannabes, Skeptics, who are anonymous and have no noticeable education or experience in nutritional biochemistry and preventative medicine. And this group dominating Wikipedia’s health pages are ideologically and frequently politically aligned with the pharmaceutical industry. This is a long sorted history of Big Pharma relying upon faux scientists, public relations firms and astroturf groups for hire to promulgate its ideology.

Chemopreventive efficacy of oral curcumin: a prodrug hypothesis
Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, July 2019
Oral consumption of curcumin, a natural polyphenol, is associated with reduced incidence of cancer. Yet, a significant amount of the orally dosed compound is eliminated in the feces, and a major fraction of the absorbed compound is metabolized to inactive glucuronides, resulting in poor bioavailability (<1%). It is not known how oral curcumin exhibits chemopreventive activity. We propose curcumin glucuronide is an inflammation-responsive natural prodrug that is converted back to curcumin on demand at the site of action. Our studies show elevated levels of β-glucuronidase, an enzyme that hydrolyzes the glycosidic bond of glucuronides to generate the parent compound, in human breast cancer. Oral administration of curcumin in mouse tumor models generated significant tumor levels of the polyphenol. Intravenous administration of the glucuronide resulted in the formation of curcumin in the tumor tissue. Chronic daily oral curcumin dosing led to tumor accumulation of curcumin and inhibition of tumor growth in tumor models with high β-glucuronidase activity. Overall, the study presented here provides preliminary evidence for a novel mechanism of action for orally administered curcumin.

How Turmeric Can Help in Weight Loss
Latestly.com, July 2019
Curcumin is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient found in turmeric with weight loss benefits. According to a study conducted by researchers at Tufts University in 2009, curcumin slowed weight gain in mice by preventing new fat tissues from forming. When mice were fed with turmeric it prevented them from developing new blood vessels and less fat tissue. The study also revealed that mice who were fed with this anti-oxidant agent had less fat in their livers and lower cholesterol levels than mice who weren’t. As per the latest study conducted by The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, Korean scientist identified that curcumin induces browning in white adipose tissue. There are two types of adipose tissues -- brown and white. White adipose tissue stores energy and increases with weight gain. On the other hand, brown adipose tissue produces heat by burning fat. Curcumin in turmeric stimulates the production of mitochondria which converts sugars, proteins and fat into energy.

Effects of Turmeric on Your Body
Galpost.com, July 2019Scientists have discovered that curcumin inhibits the production of fat cells and improves the metabolism of carbohydrates, which reduces fat after eating bread, pasta, potatoes and other carbohydrates.

Why All Diabetics Should Know About Turmeric
I Thrive Series, July 2019A recent literature review published in the International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism titled, “Anti-Hyperglycemic Effect and Insulin Sensitizing Effects of Turmeric and Its Principle Constituent Curcumin,” adds promising new support to the notion that the ancient Indian spice turmeric may provide an ideal drug alternative to treating and perhaps even preventing type 2 diabetes, which has become of the world’s most prevalent diagnoses. The study reviewed research published between 1998 to 2013 that indicates the active polyphenol in turmeric known as curcumin may provide an ideal intervention for type 2 diabetes, capable of mitigating characteristic pathophysiological hallmarks of the disease such as elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and insulin resistance. Nineteen of the studies reviewed were cell (in vitro) and animal (in vivo), all which showed beneficial effects. Five of the studies were human clinical trials using turmeric or curcumin, three of which were performed in those with either diabetes or prediabetes. Amazingly, the animal and cell research literature review concluded that curcumin could improve the type 2 diabetic state through 10 distinctly different mechanisms, such as: Reduction in liver glucose production Reduction in liver glycogen production Stimulation of increased glucose uptake (by increasing GLUT4, GLUT2 and GLUT3 gene expressions) Increasing the activation of AMP kinase Promoting PPAR γ ligand- binding activity Suppressing hyperglycemia-induced inflammatory state Stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic tissues Improvement in pancreatic cell function, Increasing phosphorylation of AKT Increasing insulin receptor β and reduction of insulin resistance The human clinical research conducted on diabetic and pre-diabetic patients revealed that curcumin had the following beneficial effects: Glucose lowering effect Improved beta cell function Improved fatty acid oxidation and utilization

Effects of Notch Signaling Pathway in Cervical Cancer by Curcumin
Journal of Cancer, July 2019
Curcumin, as a high effectand low toxicity anti-cancer drug and photosensitiser, has synergisticand complementaryeffects with photodynamic therapy. We found both DAPT and curcumin-PDT can inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis of cervical cancer cell.

Can Turmeric Help Prevent or Treat Type 2 Diabetes?
Everydayhealth.com, July 2019
The likely driver of turmeric’s potential health benefits is curcumin, the primary active chemical in this yellow-orange spice. “Curcumin is what has mostly been studied because of its important signaling pathways. It acts mostly in two areas: It's an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory,” says Marina Chaparro, RDN, MPH, a certified diabetes educator and a national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. a study published in April 2015 in the Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry found that human participants who supplemented their Glucophage (metformin) — a diabetes medication that helps lower blood sugar — with turmeric did lower their blood sugar, inflammation, and levels of oxidative stress. In another human study — this one a randomized controlled trial that was published in 2012 in Diabetes Care — a supplement of 250 milligrams of curcumin daily was associated with a delay in participants progressing from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes. Researchers studied 240 people for nine months and reported that at the end of the study, 16.4 percent of people in the placebo group developed type 2 diabetes, versus 0 percent in the curcumin-supplemented group. Participants didn’t report any side effects except for mild stomachaches. Furthermore, in the Diabetes Care study, curcumin notably appeared to help improve the function of beta cells, which research shows help produce the hormone insulin. Insulin is responsible for ferrying glucose to cells, but in type 2 diabetes, cells become insensitive to glucose, leading to high blood sugar. As the pancreas cranks out more insulin to try to lower blood sugar levels, blood sugar remains elevated because of insulin resistance — until it wanes in producing insulin because of beta cell dysfunction.

Pharmacognostic Studies on Curcuma Longa
International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Chinese Medicine, July 2019
The turmeric (Curcuma longa) plant, a perennial herb belonging to the ginger family, is cultivated extensively in south and southeast tropical Asia. The rhizome of this plant is also referred to as the “root” and is the most useful part of the plant for culinary and medicinal purposes. The most active component of turmeric is curcumin, which makes up 2 to 5% of the spice. The characteristic yellow color of turmeric is due to the curcuminoids. Curcumin is an orange–yellow crystalline powder practically insoluble in water. Turmeric is used as a dietary spice, coloring agent in foods and textiles, and a treatment for a wide variety of ailments. It is widely used in traditional Indian medicine to cure biliary disorders, anorexia, cough, diabetic wounds, hepatic disorders, rheumatism, and sinusitis. Turmeric paste in slaked lime is a popular home remedy for the treatment of inflammation and wounds. For centuries, curcumin has been consumed as a dietary spice at doses up to 100 mg/d. Extensive investigation over the last five decades has indicated that curcumin reduces blood cholesterol, prevents LDL oxidation, inhibits platelet aggregation, suppresses thrombosis and myocardial infarction (MI), suppresses symptoms associated with type II diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and Alzheimer’s disease, inhibits human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) replication, enhances wound healing, protects from liver injury, increases bile secretion, protects from cataract formation, and protects from pulmonary toxicity and fibrosis, is an anti-leishmaniasis and an antiatherosclerotic. Additionally, there is extensive literature that suggests that curcumin has potential in the prevention and treatment of a variety of other diseases.

Turmeric and its medicinal properties
Guardian, July 2019Curcumin is the yellow pigment in Turmeric and the most medicinally active compound therein. Curry, the very common spice that we add to our stews and soups is from curcumin. There are about100 chemical compounds in turmeric. These chemical compounds confer certain uniqueness to this herb and give it the ability to treat several disease conditions. The curcumin in turmeric is made up of polyphenols, which are organic chemicals that possess anti-inflammatory properties. Polyphenols are also present in some other types of foods and beverages also. Examples of these are epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC) found in green tee, resveratrol in red grapes and red wine and capsaicin in chili peppers. Curcumin is part of a group of chemical compounds known as curcuminoids and others in the group are demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Curcumin is what is responsible for the health benefits of turmeric.

Tips to increase brain power
Newstracklive.com, July 2019Turmeric: The curcumin in turmeric is antidepressant and helps improves memory. It has been found that people suffering from Alzheimer’s have small proteins called amyloid-beta which causes damage to the brain. It is neurotoxic and forms neurofibrillary tangles in the brain that leads to Alzheimer’s. Curcumin works to protect the brain from this damage.

The Wonders of Turmeric: Why It’s Good For You
Society19, July 2019One of the reasons why turmeric is good for you because it is anti-inflammatory. Turmeric contains curcumin, a chemical that not only is responsible for the bright yellow colour, but is said to contain anti-inflammatory properties. In some cases, curcumin is so potent that it can be as effective as anti-inflammatory drugs. One study actually discovered that curcumin was more effective in fighting against inflammation than aspirin and ibuprofen. Another reason why this spice is good for you is that it can prevent cancer. As mentioned above, curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties, but that is not the only thing it can do. Curcumin is also beneficial in treating cancer, as it affects cancer growth and development. One study has discovered that curcumin can inhibit tumor initiation and promotion, as well as inhibit metastasis and cell proliferation. Considering that turmeric contains curcumin, it is no surprise that the yellow spice is beneficial to the joints and can prevent them from getting swollen and inflamed. It has been discovered that curcumin is able to help with arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, to the point that it is considered to be more effective than anti-inflammatory drugs.

Turmeric, ‘The Golden Spice’ is 1 of the Most Beneficial Spices in World
Live Trading News, July 2019Turmeric, known as ‘The Golden Spice of Life’ is of the most beneficial spices in the culinary world. It is due to the astounding amounts of curcumin it contains, its principal bioactive component. According to a Y 2017 study published in the journal Foods, curcumin contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties since ancient times known to assist in alleviating arthritis, metabolic syndrome and hyperlipidemia. A 2016 study from Drug Design, Development and Therapy showed that curcuminoids and curcumin extracts helped alleviate pain and improved both physical function and quality of life.7 •May help improve behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia — A Y 2012 study found that the daily administration of turmeric to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients helped reduce irritability, agitation, anxiety, apathy and other Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. •Provides an immune system boost — According to a Y 2018 study from the Journal of Cellular Physiology, curcumin affects numerous immune cells, including natural killer cells and B lymphocytes, supporting the body against immune system-related diseases.

Life-saving compound can DESTROY stomach cancer
Healthier Talk, July 2019Curcumin appears to attack the protein that keeps the DNA of each cancer cell in order. So essentially it causes the DNA to unravel – forcing those cells to die. While this animal study isn’t quite on the same level as a controlled clinical trial, the evidence has been building for years. And the signs all point to curcumin being a potent weapon in the war against stomach cancer. Curcumin could starve cancer cells In 2017, a study even showed WHY curcumin is so effective: The acids in your stomach can act like fertilizer for these cancers. The tumors suck it up and use it to GROW. Curcumin can help tame those acids, not necessarily by reducing the levels but changing how they’re secreted so less gets to the tumor. As a result, the cancer cells in the study weren’t able to get that fertilizer… and DIED because of it. More study is needed, of course. But that makes curcumin one of the most promising natural therapies yet in the fight against stomach cancer. That could mean that if you DON’T have cancer, curcumin supplements can prevent it from forming and taking hold. And if you DO have cancer, curcumin could help fight it off.

Natural Remedies Proven to Help Control Pain
Care2, July 2019
Scientists believe most of turmeric’s health benefits come from its high curcumin content. One of curcumin’s proven abilities is helping to combat pain, such as muscle pain and post-surgical pain. In an Indian study, curcumin was shown to be more effective for relieving rheumatoid arthritis pain than standard drug treatment. You can buy prepared turmeric and curcumin supplements. Fresh or dried turmeric is also easy to incorporate into many different dishes and include in your daily diet. The curcumin in turmeric can be difficult to digest, but research has shown that curcumin is much more easily absorbed when it’s eaten with black pepper and fats. So, add a dash of pepper and a dab of olive, coconut or other healthy oil in your meals to get the most pain-fighting action out of your turmeric.

Modulatory effects of curcumin on heat shock proteins in cancer: A promising therapeutic approach
Biofactors, July 2019
Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a potent anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor agent. Curcumin has been shown to regulate different members of HSPs including HSP27, HSP40, HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90 in cancer. Here, we present extent findings suggesting that curcumin may act as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer through its regulation of HSPs.

Discover The Proven Health Benefits Of Turmeric And Curcumin
Scoopify, July 2019
Curcumin benefits in the prevention of the growth of the precancerous cells in the colon. Not only this, it has been highly beneficial in the treatment of the breast, stomach and skin cancer during the initial phase. Curcumin has the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in maintaining the insulin level in the body.

Feed addition of curcumin to laying hens showed anticoccidial effect, and improved egg quality and animal health
Pubmed, July 2019
The addition of curcumin in the diet of laying hens has an anticoccidial effect and improves egg quality.

Curcumin Induces Oxidative Stress in Botrytis cinerea
Pubs.acs.org, July 2019Curcumin exhibits efficient antimicrobial activity; nevertheless, its effect on the post harvest decay of fruit has not been examined. Curcumin can be used to control gray mold and elevate antioxidant activity in kiwifruit.

Health Benefits of Turmeric & Curcumin
OrganicFats.net June 2019
The amazing health benefits of turmeric and curcumin include the ability to reduce inflammation, heal wounds, improve skin health, protect cognitive abilities, and ease menstrual difficulties. Turmeric also helps eliminate depression, alleviate pain, slow down aging, protect the digestive tract, and prevent cancer. Turmeric rich in curcumin and vitamin B6 also boosts your cardiovascular health. Vitamin B6 can efficiently inhibit the production of homocysteine, which is a negative by-product that damages cell walls. These weakened walls can cause a number of complications in the heart, particularly when exacerbated by high blood pressure or plaque build-up. Curcumin directly balances your cholesterol levels by eliminating excess LDL (bad) cholesterol from the arteries and blood vessels. This can help prevent atherosclerosis and when combined with stronger blood vessels, the herb represents a comprehensive solution for a wide range of heart issues, as per a study cited in the Basic Research in Cardiology. Anti-cancer Properties A study conducted on mice by the researchers at the Cancer Research Institute, Tata Memorial Center, Mumbai, India documents the potential protective effect of turmeric on stomach and skin cancer. The most extensive research on turmeric’s cancer prevention effects has been in colon cancer, whereas other types of cancer research related to curcumin are currently underway. Additionally, an animal study by Ramadasan Kuttan et al. (Cancer Letters Journal) indicated that the turmeric extract and curcumin inhibited the growth of the tumor. Researchers at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that curcumin’s potential ability to kill cancer cells can be used in drug development. Additional studies need to be done to get the health benefits of this spice pertaining to cancer. Prevents Alzheimer’s As a powerful antioxidant herb, turmeric can stimulate neural activity and prevent cognitive degradations, which often come in the form of Alzheimer’s and dementia. As per a study by Srikant Mishra from the Department of Neurology, Plummer Street, Sepulveda, CA, curcumin is highly efficient in clearing out the amyloid plaque, which is a major indicator of Alzheimer’s progression. A study also found that turmeric supplements improved mood and cognitive function in non-demented older people suffering from mild age-related memory issues.

Evaluating the effect of curcumin for treatment of cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome in solid cancer patients.
Journal of Clinical Oncology, June 2019
Curcumin has been shown anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects, including attenuation of CACS in animal models. Notably, patient with curcumin had less reduction of hand-grip muscle strength on both hands [right hand: -2.09 in curcumin versus -3.68 in placebo; p = 0.46], [left hand: -1.24 versus -5.04; p-value = 0.12], and basal metabolic rate than placebo group.

A network pharmacology approach to investigate the pharmacological effect of curcumin and capsaicin targets in cancer
Journal of Proteins and Proteomics, June 2019
Curcumin and capsaicin play a vital role in anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer mechanism as they are used as therapeutic drugs/adjuvants. The gene ontology analysis made it possible to identify a library of possible cancer targets of curcumin (34 targets) and capsaicin (35 targets). Based on topological analysis, the unique target of curcumin and capsaicin was proposed by identifying essential bottleneck/hub node MAPK1. The docking results of MAPK1 with curcumin (− 7.6 kcal/mol) has shown good inhibitory effect similar to that of standard control ulixertinib (− 8.1 kcal/mol) compared with capsaicin (− 6.0 kcal/mol). Based on the molecular interaction, MAPK1 identified through the network pharmacology approach could be a probable target of curcumin and capsaicin to prevent angiogenesis in cancer.

Curcumin reverses oxaliplatin resistance in human colorectal cancer
OncoTargets and Therapy, June 2019
Studies have shown that curcumin regulated EMT processes in many human cancers. The OXA-resistant cell line HCT116/OXA was successfully established, and combination of OXA with curcumin reduced OXA resistance in vitro. Besides, the combination treatment inhibited the expressions of p-p65 and Bcl-2, but increased the level of active-caspase3. In addition, curcumin inhibited EMT via regulation of TGF-β/Smad2/3 signaling pathway. Moreover, in vivo study confirmed curcumin could reverse OXA resistance in CRC. Conclusion: Our study indicated that curcumin could reserve OXA resistance in CRC through dampening TGF-β/Smads signaling in vitro and in vivo.

Curcumin suppresses epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition of peritoneal mesothelial cells
Cellular & Molecular Biology Letters, June 2019
urcumin reversed growth inhibition and migration capability of human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs). In HMrSV5 cells, high glucose PDS also decreased expression of epithelial markers, and increased expression of mesenchymal markers, a characteristic of EMT. Real-time RT-PCR and western blot revealed that, compared to the 4.25% Dianeal treated cells, curcumin treatment resulted in increased expression of E-cadherin (epithelial marker), and decreased expression of α-SMA (mesenchymal markers) (P < 0.05). Furthermore, curcumin reduced mRNA expression of two extracellular matrix protein, collagen I and fibronectin. Curcumin also reduced TGF-β1 mRNA and supernatant TGF-β1 protein content in the PDS-treated HMrSV5 cells (P < 0.05). Furthermore, it significantly reduced protein expression of p-TAK1, p-JNK and p-p38 in PDS-treated HMrSV5 cells. Conclusions. Our results demonstrate that curcumin showed an obvious protective effect on PDS-induced EMT of HMrSV5 cells and suggest implication of the TAK1, p38 and JNK pathway in mediating the effects of curcumin in EMT of MCs.

Foods That Help Fight Anxiety
News 18, June 2019
Turmeric: The spice contains curcumin, a compound that promotes brain health and prevents anxiety disorders. Curcumin may boost omega-3 fatty acid DHA in the brain by helping the body produce it more effectively. Curcumin also has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent damage to brain cells.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation and the antioxidant curcumin on the longevity, fertility, and physical structure of Drosophila melanogaster
Emerging Investigators, June 2019
Curcumin significantly prolonged lifespan and enhanced fertility for both UV- and non-UV-exposed flies. Therefore, we conclude that curcumin can prolong lifespan, enhance fertility, and mitigate the deleterious effects of UV radiation on Drosophila. Our research demonstrates that we can harness the positive potential of natural antioxidants and use them as weapons in our war against radiation-induced diseases, including conditions like cancer.

The Inhibitory Effect of Curcumin on Ornithine Decarboxylase against Hepatic Carcinoma
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines, June 2019
Curcumin the active component of turmeric is widely used as an anticancer agent for treating many human cancers. Our results showed that curcumin has the ability to inhibit the proliferation of HepG2 cells with IC50 of 24.79 μg/ml and induced G2/M cell cycle arrest. Moreover, it caused an elevation in the intracellular concentration of Ca2+. Moreover, in the curcumin administration the downregulation expression level of ODC and Bcl-2 genes (p ≤ 0.05) was significant found. On the other hand, upregulation in the expression level of P53, Bax, and caspase-3 genes (p ≤ 0.05). This study concluded that curcumin may be considered as a new saving candidate for the future progress of antitumor agents.

These Spices May Help In Regulating Blood Pressure
NDTV, June 2019
The golden spice is celebrated for housing powerful antioxidant - curcumin - that protects against vascular dysfunction. It also protects arteries of the heart, which gets affected the most by high blood pressure.

Consuming turmeric everyday can improve memory and happiness: Study
Dunya News ,May 2019
Found in turmeric, curcumin is hailed as an anti-inflammatory with antioxidant properties, and it has also been suggested as a possible reason that senior citizens in India - where curcumin is somewhat of a staple - have lower rates of Alzheimer s disease and better cognitive performance. Published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, the research conducted by the University of California Los Angeles set out to examine the effects of the ingredient on people with mild, age-related memory loss. After monitoring curcumin levels in their blood and undergoing cognitive assessments and PET scans, the study found that those who took curcumin saw significant improvement in both memory and mood. In memory tests, the people taking curcumin improved by 28 percent over the 18 months and also showed mild improvement in their overall disposition.

Curcumin ameliorates atherosclerosis
Journal of Cellular Physiology, May 2019
The potential usage of curcumin in diverse human diseases has been widely studied, including arteriosclerosis (AS). We found that curcumin treatment significantly reduced HMEC‐1 cells viability, migration, and the protein levels of MMP‐2, MMP‐9, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the presence or absence of ox‐LDL. Meanwhile, the expression of VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 was repressed by curcumin. miR‐126 was upregulated by curcumin. The abovementioned effects of curcumin on HMEC‐1 cells were all attenuated when miR‐126 was silenced. And also, VEGF was a target gene of miR‐126, and curcumin could inhibit the activation of PI3K/AKT JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathways via miR‐126. The effects of curcumin and its regulation on miR‐126 and VEGF were confirmed in the animal model of AS. To sum up, curcumin exerted potent anti‐AS property possibly via upregulating miR‐126 and thereby inhibiting PI3K/AKT and JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathways.

Curcumin and endometrial carcinoma: an old spice as a novel agent
International Journal of Women's Health, May 2019
The yellow Indian spice known as curcumin has been extolled for its healing powers and has recently been adopted for investigation by the scientific community as a potent anti-cancerous agent. Curcumin is a bright yellow-colored Indian spice derived from the herbaceous ginger plant turmeric, also known as Curcuma longa.18 This spice has been used for centuries to treat numerous diseases such as diabetes, atherosclerosis as well as liver, rheumatoid, and infectious diseases.18,19 Recent advances in molecular biology have allowed a more microscopic inspection into the active properties of this pleiotropic chemical (diferuloylmethane), which has proven to effectively interact with numerous signaling molecules within the body. Curcumin seems to show antibacterial,20 anti-inflammatory,21 antioxidant,22 and antimicrobial activities.23 In addition to all its benefits, curcumin also possesses anti-cancerous effects by targeting several important players in cell signaling pathways such as p53,24 MAPKs, ERK, Ras,25 Wnt-β,26 PI3K, and Akt,27 all of which play major roles in tumor progression. Furthermore, this herb, in combination with other agents, is capable of disrupting the cell cycle through its effect on cellular apoptosis by activating caspases as well as downregulating anti-apoptotic gene products (Bcl-X).28 Curcumin can also interact with several molecules involved in proliferation (EGFR and AP-1),29,30 metastasis and invasion (MMP-9),31 angiogenesis (VEGF),32 and inflammation (NF-κB, COX-2, TNF, IL-1, IL-6, IL-2, IL-8, and IL-12, 5-LOX).33–35 Because of its multivalent potential to target several molecules, this spice can be used on various types of cancers including colorectal, leukemia, lymphoma, breast, pancreatic, ovarian, head and neck, lung, prostate, and melanoma.34 An investigation into the available literature concerning curcumin as a potential therapy for cancers of the female reproductive system turned up with no paper studying the effect of curcumin on endometrial carcinoma. Therefore, this review is written to shed light and summarize any available data on the effect of curcumin as a promising therapeutic agent on this specific gynecological cancer.

Curcumin induces cell death in human ovarian cancer
Gynecologic Oncology, May 2019
Curcumin (Cur), a yellow-colored dietary flavor from the plant (Curcuma longa), has been demonstrated to potentially resist diverse diseases, including ovarian cancer, but drug resistance becomes a major limitation of its success clinically. The key molecule or mechanism associated with curcumin resistance in ovarian cancer still remains unclear. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of curcumin on autophagy in ovarian cancer cells and elucidate the underlying mechanism. Curcumin reduced cell viability and induced apoptotic cell death by MTT assay in human ovarian cancer cell lines SK-OV-3 and A2780 significantly. Electron microscopy, western blot and immunofluorescence staining proved that curcumin could induce protective autophagy. Curcumin can induce protective autophagy of human ovarian cancer cells by inhibiting the AKT/mTOR/p70S6K pathway, indicating the synergistic effects of curcumin and autophagy inhibition as a possible strategy to overcome the limits of current therapies in the eradication of epithelial ovarian cancer.

Curcumin as Antipsychotic Treatment in Patients With Chronic Schizophrenia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Clinical Neuropharmacology, May 2019
Curcumin is a natural polyphenol, which has a variety of pharmacological activities, including antioxidative and neuroprotective effects. The studies showed that curcumin improved the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. There was a significant response to curcumin within 6 months in total PANSS (P = 0.02) and in the negative symptoms subscale (P = 0.04). The promising results of curcumin as an add-on to antipsychotics in the treatment of negative symptoms may open a new and safe therapeutic option for the management of schizophrenia.

Curcumin exhibits an antiviral activity
Antiviral Research, May 2019
Curcumin, a polyphenol, is the main bioactive compound in dietary spice turmeric curcuma longa. It possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-neoplastic properties and shows potentials in treating or preventing particular diseases such as oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, hyperlipidemia and cancers. This discovery explains the wide range of effects of curcumin on diverse human diseases and predicts a potential application in treatment of viral infection and virus-associated cancer. As a proof-of-concept, we demonstrated that curcumin is able to efficiently block Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus replication and inhibit the pathogenic processes of angiogenesis and cell invasion. An enzymatic assay confirmed that curcumin is an inhibitor of APE1 redox function. Through inhibiting APE1 redox function, curcumin prevents c-jun/c-fos from binding to the AP-1 promoter. Through blocking AP-1 transcriptional activity, curcumin efficiently inhibits KSHV lytic DNA replication and virion production. Curcumin also inhibits KSHV-mediated pathogenesis including angiogenesis and cell invasion.

Curcumin Can Improve Spinal Cord Injury
Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, May 2019
Curcumin exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Curcumin can play an important role in SCI recovery by inhibiting the expression of NF-κB and TGF-β-SOX9. Herein, we review the potential mechanism of curcumin-inhibiting SOX9 signaling pathway in SCI treatment. The inhibition of NF-κB and SOX9 signaling pathway by curcumin has the potentiality of serving as neuronal regenerative mechanism following SCI.

Effect of combined fish oil & Curcumin on murine skeletal muscle
Nutrition Research, May 2019
Nutritional supplements such as fish oil and curcumin enhance anabolic signaling, glutathione levels, and heat shock proteins. We hypothesized that fish oil, rich in omega-3-fatty acids, combined with the polyphenol curcumin would enhance stress protective proteins and anabolic signaling in the rat soleus muscle, concomitant with synergistic protection of morphology. C57BL/6 mice were assigned to 3 groups (n = 6/group): ambulatory controls (CON), hindlimb unloading (HU), and hindlimb unloading with 5% fish oil, 1% curcumin in diet (FOC). FOC treatments began 10 days prior to HU and tissues were harvested following 7 days of HU. FOC mitigated the unloading induced decrease in CSA. FOC also enhanced abundance of HSP70 and anabolic signaling (Akt phosphorylation, p70S6K phosphorylation), while reducing Nox2, a source of oxidative stress. Therefore, we concluded that the combination of fish oil and curcumin prevents skeletal muscle atrophy due to a boost of heat shock proteins and anabolic signaling in an unloaded state.

Curcumin reduces renal damage
Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, May 2019
Treatment with curcumin initiated before or after rhabdomyolysis induction ameliorated all these pathologic and molecular alterations. In cultured renal tubular cells, myoglobin (Mb) induced ferroptosis-sensitive cell death that was also inhibited by curcumin. Mechanistic in vitro studies showed that curcumin reduced Mb-mediated inflammation and oxidative stress by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB axis and activating the cytoprotective enzyme heme oxygenase 1. Our findings are the first to demonstrate the involvement of ferroptosis in rhabdomyolysis-associated renal damage and its sensitivity to curcumin treatment. Therefore, curcumin may be a potential therapeutic approach for patients with this syndrome.

Curcumin induces apoptosis in JAK2‐mutated cells
Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, May 2019
Previous studies showed that curcumin, the active principle of the Curcuma longa, can suppress JAK2/STAT pathways in different type of cancer and injuries. In this study, we investigated the anti‐proliferative and pro‐apoptotic effects of curcumin in JAK2 V617F‐mutated cells. HEL cell line and cells from patients JAK2 V617F mutated have been incubated with increasing concentrations of curcumin for different time. Apoptosis and proliferation were evaluated. Subsequently, JAK2/STAT and AKT/mTOR pathways were investigated at both RNA and protein levels. We found that curcumin induces apoptosis and inhibition of proliferation in HEL cells. Furthermore, we showed that curcumin inhibits JAK2/STAT and mTORC1 pathways in JAK2 V617F‐mutated cells. This inhibition suggests that curcumin could represent an alternative strategy to be explored for the treatment of patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms.

Curcumin: a potent agent to reverse epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
Cellular Oncology, May 2019
Accumulating evidence indicates that curcumin, as a well-known phytochemical, can inhibit EMT/metastasis through various mechanisms and pathways in human tumors. Curcumin can exert chemo-preventive effects by inhibition and reversal of the EMT process through both TGF-β-dependent (e.g. in hepatoma and retinal pigment epithelial cancer) and -independent (e.g. in oral cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, bladder cancer, thyroid cancer and lung cancer) pathways. Curcumin can also mitigate chemoresistance through EMT suppression and promotion of the antiproliferative effects of conventional chemotherapeutics. Therefore, curcumin has the potential to be used as a novel adjunctive agent to prevent tumor metastasis, which may at least partly be attributed to its hampering of the EMT process.

The Brain And Memory
Herbal Remedies Home, May 2019
Curcumin has been linked to a lower dementia risk numerous times before. According to a 2009 study done by researchers from Duke University, it causes brain changes and reverses some of the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Namely, it targets the amyloid plaques, which are considered to be one of the main causes of brain damage. The researcher Murali Doraiswamy said: “There is very solid evidence that curcumin binds to plaques, and basic research on animals engineered to produce human amyloid plaques has shown benefits. You can modify a mouse so that at about 12 months its brain is riddled with plaques. If you feed this rat a curcumin-rich diet, it dissolves these plaques. The same diet prevented younger mice from forming new plaques.” The active ingredient of turmeric, curcumin, is responsible for most of its medicinal and healing powers, since it is full of antioxidants and offers extremely powerful anti-inflammatory properties. According to Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS: “Arguably, the most powerful aspect of curcumin is its ability to control inflammation. The journal Oncogene published the results of a study that evaluated several anti-inflammatory compounds and found that aspirin and ibuprofen, two of the most common NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are least effective, while curcumin is among the most effective anti-inflammatory compounds in the world. This news should have reached every household in the world after the study was conducted because inflammation is at the root of most diseases. Increasingly common diseases today — such as cancer, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, high cholesterol, and chronic pain — are all associated with inflammation. The anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin have also been studied as a possible treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. “ Moreover, this amazing spice improves health in a thousand other ways, cleanses the blood, prevents premature aging, detoxifies the liver, prevents free radical damage, improves skin health, and much more. Also, a series of 2013 studies done at the University of Tsukuba in Japan showed that curcumin improved two measures of cardiovascular health as much as aerobic exercise did. Also, numerous studies have confirmed that turmeric and curcumin will help you soothe arthritis, reduce body fat, prevent cancer, and improve cancer prognosis. Its anti-cancer activity has been studied and confirmed by numerous studies. Dr.Mercola reports: “ Curcumin actually has the most evidence-based literature supporting its use against cancer of any other nutrient, including vitamin D! As noted by Dr. William LaValley, curcumin is unique in that it appears to be universally useful for just about every type of cancer. This is odd, considering the fact that cancer consists of a wide variety of different molecular pathologies. One reason for this universal anti-cancer proclivity is curcumin’s ability to affect multiple molecular targets, via multiple pathways. Once it gets into a cell, it affects more than 100 different molecular pathways. And, as explained by Dr. LaValley, whether the curcumin molecule causes an increase in activity of a particular molecular target, or decrease/inhibition of activity, studies repeatedly show that the end result is a potent anti-cancer activity. Moreover, curcumin is non-toxic and does not adversely affect healthy cells, suggesting it selectively targets cancer cells—all of which are clear benefits in cancer treatment. Research has even shown that it works synergistically with certain chemotherapy drugs, enhancing the elimination of cancer cells.”

Effects of Curcumin on Microglial Cells
Neurotoxicity Research, May 2019
Curcumin is a phytochemical isolated from Curcuma longa. It is widely used in Asia and has many therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-mutagenic, anti-amyloidogenic and anti-inflammatory, especially with respect to neuroinflammation and neurological disorders (NDs). Curcumin is a pleiotropic molecule that inhibits microglia transformation, inflammatory mediators and subsequent NDs. In this mini-review, we discuss the effects of curcumin on microglia and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Curcumin may help in some UC patients
MDedge.com May 2019
Curcumin was evaluated in a multicenter trial showing that, when added to maximal mesalamine, it may be helpful in avoiding an advance in therapy, with 54% achieving clinical remission at week 4 versus 0% of placebo-treated patients. Likewise, curcumin has shown “minimal harm” in mild ulcerative colitis and may help nudge patients toward disease control without having to resort to corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive therapy, Dr. Brant said.

Study highlights anti-tumor activity of curcumin on stomach cancer
Eureka Alert, May 2019
Curcumin is widely used to impart color and flavor to food, but scientists have discovered that this yellow powder derived from the roots of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa) can also help prevent or combat stomach cancer. Curcumin influences histone modifications primarily by inhibiting HATs and HDACs to suppress cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death). Garcinol, whose chemical structure resembles that of curcumin, inhibits HATs and helps prevent stomach cancer by neutralizing free radicals.

Best supplements for arthritis: Natural remedies to alleviate joint pain
Express, May 2019
Turmeric contains a chemical called curcumin, which can reduce pain and swelling by blocking inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. A clinical trial using a turmeric supplement in 2010 showed long-term improvement in pain and function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, A small study in 2012 using a curcumin product also showed more reduced joint pain and swelling in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis, when compared to diclofenac sodium.

Stop Different Types of Pain
Trending Posts, May 2019
Curcumin to stop the pain caused by inflammation. Curcumin is a natural proven remedy well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. One of the most popular spices of Asia is Turmeric and it can be widely used in medicines because its components contain anti-inflammatory properties. Comparisons between conventional medications and curcumin have been researched and it has been proved that curcumin is just as good as ibuprofen for relieving pain. Turmeric or curcumin capsules are being recommended by doctors for patients suffering from aches and sore joints.

Curcumin combined with metformin decreases glycemia and dyslipidemia, and increases paraoxonase activity
Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome, May 2019
Curcumin, a yellow pigment isolated from Curcuma longa rhizomes, has gained attention due to its beneficial effects in controlling the disturbances observed in diabetes mellitus. Treatment of diabetic rats with curcumin or metformin alone decreased the plasma levels of glucose, triacylglycerol, cholesterol, TBARS, and fluorescent AGEs, as well as increased the activity of PON 1. The combination of metformin with curcumin further decreased dyslipidemia and TBARS levels in diabetic rats, indicating synergy, and maintained the high levels of PON 1. These findings indicated that curcumin combined with metformin may act synergistically on dyslipidemia and oxidative stress, as well as increased PON 1 levels. Therefore, it might be a promising strategy for combating diabetic complications, mainly the cardiovascular events.

The neuroprotective effects of curcumin
Drug Design, Development and Therapy, May 2019
The beneficial, neuroprotective effects of curcumin against ischemia-reperfusion injury have been demonstrated. In the present study, whether curcumin exerts neuroprotective effects associated with the inhibition of autophagy and hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) was investigated. In this study, curcumin decreased the death and apoptosis of cells, and inhibited autophagy and HIF-1α under OGD/R conditions, consistent with 3-MA treatment or HIF-1α downregulation. Moreover, inhibition of autophagy caused a decrease in HIF-1α, and the attenuation of HIF-1α induced autophagy suppression under OGD/R conditions. The results of this study showed that curcumin exerts neuroprotective effects against ischemia-reperfusion, which is associated with the regulation of the reciprocal function between autophagy and HIF-1α.

Curcumin supplementation mitigates NASH development
Physiological Reports, May 2019
Curcumin, a naturally occurring plant polyphenolic compound, may have beneficial effects in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) development. Curcumin treatment (12WD vs. 12WD+C) reduced (P < 0.05) hepatocellular inflammation, steatosis, NAFLD Activity Scores, and serum markers of liver injury (AST, ALP). Moreover, curcumin treatment also increased hepatic pACC/ACC, ApoB100, and SOD1 protein, and decreased hepatic FGF‐21 levels; whereas, curcumin prevention increased hepatic glutathione levels. Both curcumin prevention and treatment reduced molecular markers of hepatic fibrosis (Col1a1 mRNA) and inflammation (TNF‐α, SPP1 mRNA). Curcumin supplementation beneficially altered the NASH phenotype in female Wistar rats, particularly the reversal of hepatocellular inflammation.

The study identifies the possible therapeutic effects of curcumin on gastric cancer
Onties.com May 2019
"We made a huge overview of the scientific literature on all nutrients and bioactive compounds with the potential to prevent or treat stomach cancer and found that curcumin is one of them," said Daniel Ciroz Calgano, a professor at UFPA.

What Are Nootropics? Your Guide To The Best Brain-Boosting Nutrients
Mind Body Green, May 2019
You may have 99 problems, but curcumin has probably already solved 98 of them—and you can add improved cognitive performance to that list. This compound in turmeric has been shown to improve working memory with consistent long-term supplementation. Curcumin can also increase BDNF, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit inflammatory cytokines.

Daily dose of turmeric could boost memory, mood: study
Pan Armenian, May 2019
Curcumin, the compound that gives the spice its rich dark yellow colour, is widely established to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The research, published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, examined the effects of curcumin on memory performance in people without dementia, as well as its impact on people already suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. “Exactly how curcumin exerts its effects is not certain, but it may be due to its ability to reduce brain inflammation, which has been linked to both Alzheimer’s disease and major depression,”. Memory tests showed that those taking curcumin improved by 28 percent over the 18 months and experienced mild improvements in mood. "These results suggest that taking this relatively safe form of curcumin could provide meaningful cognitive benefits over the years,” said Dr Small.

Study reveals turmeric is more effective at killing cancer cells than chemo or radiation
El Reportero, May 2019
One aspect of curcumin’s intelligent approach is its ability to downregulate interleukin-6. The over-expression of this cytokine has been linked to inflammation progressing to cancer, and curcumin stops it from being released and stimulating cancer stem cells. It also directly and indirectly downregulates interleukin-1, which plays a vital role in the growth of cancer cells, and interleukin-8, which stimulates the regrowth of tumor-forming cancer stem cells. Another way curcumin can fight cancer is by decreasing the binding of CXCR1 and CXCR2 and modulating pathways like the Wnt Signaling Pathway, the Notch Pathway, the FAK/AKT/FOXo3A Pathway, and the Hedgehog Pathways. If those terms are unfamiliar to you, you’re not alone – cancer is a complicated disease, but the bottom line is that curcumin targets deadly cancer stem cells in eight different and very powerful ways. Curcumin is a very efficient cancer fighter, targeting the most dangerous cells of all, cancer stem cells, without touching normal cells. Contrast this with chemotherapy, which damages the DNA of quickly-replicating cells while they’re vulnerable during the mitosis stage of cell division. It does this without determining if the cells are cancerous or completely healthy.

Healthy Options: Root Plants And Herbal Leaves For Stress And Anxiety Management
TG Daily, May 2019
Turmeric root, on the other hand, also has very promising benefits for the effective management of stress and anxiety disorders. Both animal studies and human studies conclude that the oral intake of curcumin can significantly prevent anxiety-like behavior and improve mobility.

Study: Curcumin, Resveratrol Possible Anti-Cancer Compounds
Whole Foods Magazine, May 2019
Curcumin can play a role in preventing stomach cancer, according to a new study from researchers at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) and the Federal University of Pará (UFPA).

High blood pressure - best spices to prevent deadly hypertension symptoms
Express, May 2019
Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, could play a role in lowering blood pressure, according to cardiologist Dr Stephen Sinatra.Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant the helps to break-up big clumps of platelets in the blood, he said. If you’d prefer to take curcumin as a supplement, aim for around 500mg in a single day. ou may not have heard of curcumin before, but you have probably heard of turmeric, the spice that is best known as an ingredient in Indian curry and yellow mustard. Turmeric has been my number one natural blood pressure reducer and cardiovascular spice for years, and its yellow colour comes from curcumin — a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that’s been found to reduce blood pressure by lowering the excess platelet aggregation that occurs in sticky, clot-forming blood.

Is the Curcumin in Turmeric More Effective Than Prozac for Depression?
Tmd.org May 2019
Curcumin is the main compound in the spice, turmeric. This spice is known for its bright yellow or orange color, flavorful taste, and is a great addition to curries. It is also well known in traditional medicine for its healing properties and has been used for centuries to heal many conditions. Curcumin possesses both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Beyond fighting common inflammatory-related conditions, such as arthritis and cancer, curcumin has been researched for its potential role in treating depression. One study found that curcumin therapy successfully reduces depressive symptoms when compared to the leading antidepressant medication, Prozac. What set curcumin apart was the fact that little to no side effects were reported. Antidepressants can cause any number of side effects including nausea, vomiting, blood pressure changes, dizziness, anxiety, and weight gain. With curcumin being more natural, these side effects can be avoided, and the depression itself can be successfully treated. Studies continue to research the effectiveness of curcumin on depression. With all this said, antidepressant medication is still preferred for good reasons, and these should be discussed with your physician. Do not stop taking prescribed medication before consulting with your doctor. The Natural Approach to Fighting Depression Curcumin is a strong antioxidant which means it scavenges and rids the body of harmful free radicals. The reduction of oxidative damage also reduces inflammation, and this can alleviate depressive symptoms. Studies have found a link between inflammation and depression but are not entirely which is the cause and which the result. The relationship does, however, tell us that by reducing inflammation, you can also reduce the symptoms of depression. Depression has also been scientifically linked to reduced production of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a growth hormone that impacts the function of your brain. Curcumin increases the presence of BDNF in the brain, which can lead to a reduction is depressive symptoms or a reduced risk of developing the disease. Curcumin has also been linked to increased production of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. Anxiety is another common mental disease that exists alongside depression in many cases. Curcumin has been found to increase the production of DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid. Deficiency in this omega-3 has been linked to increased anxiety, which can trigger or cause depression. By reducing anxious thoughts or behaviors, curcumin can also help reduce depression.

Why you should be adding turmeric daily to your life
Mustafa Mehar, May 2019
There have been over 50 clinical trials done on the health benefits of turmeric and curcumin and it seems there are only more coming our way. Below is a summary of some of the studies and their claims. The major health benefits of Turmeric 1. It plays a major role in cancer prevention, including myeloma, pancreatic, colon, breast, brain, blood, kidney, liver, pancreas and skin cancer. This is due to the fact that it can help prevent the initial processes that lead to mutations within our DNA. 2. It has major anti-inflammatory effects, according to a study which researched the efficacy of curcumin in the treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. It has been found to treat other inflammatory conditions effectively as well. 3. Turmeric plays a preventative role in the development of multiple diseases, such as lung disease and brain disease, and has been found to improve brain function. 4. It is beneficial for your cardiovascular health, supplementing daily with turmeric has been found to have as many benefits in improving our cell function in the arteries as one hour of aerobic exercise. 5. It is believed that turmeric may play a role in preventing Alzheimers disease. This condition is related to a build up of Amyloid-Plaques in the brain, and curcumin has been found to aid in removing these build ups. 6. Curcumin acts as a natural anti-depressant, where studies show it increases the brain’s serotonin and dopamine levels, as well as increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels (BDNF). Low levels of BDNF has been associated with depression. 7. It offers anti-aging benefits. Oxidation and inflammation within the body are linked to aging and curcumin, a powerful anti-oxidant, potentially preventing these processes from occurring within the body. 8. Turmeric may also benefit your skin. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can aid with skin health, such as eczema or psoriasis.

Protective effects of curcumin in embryonic fibroblast cells
Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology, May 2019
The study indicated that curcumin might be a potential ameliorative antioxidant to protect the fibroblast cell toxicity induced by sodium arsenite.

Revealing the Effects of Curcumin on SH-SY5Y Neuronal Cells: A Combined Study from Cellular Viability, Morphology, and Biomechanics
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, May 2019
The present study provides insights into the effects of curcumin on neuronal cells from both biological and biophysical aspects, which can help more comprehensively understand the interactions between curcumin and SH-SY5Y cells.

Safety and efficacy of curcumin versus diclofenac in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized open-label parallel-arm study
Trials, May 2019
At days 14 and 28, patients receiving curcumin showed similar improvement in severity of pain and KOOS scale when compared with diclofenac, and the difference was not statistically significant. At day 7, the patients who received curcumin experienced a significantly greater reduction in the number of episodes of flatulence compared with diclofenac (P <0.01). At day 28, a weight-lowering effect (P <0.01) and anti-ulcer effect (P <0.01) of curcumin were observed. None of the patients required H2 blockers in the curcumin group, and 19 patients required H2 blockers in the diclofenac group (0% versus 28%, respectively; P <0.01). Adverse effects were significantly less in the curcumin group (13% versus 38% in the diclofenac group; P <0.01). Patient’s and physician’s global assessment of therapy was similar in the two treatment groups. Curcumin has similar efficacy to diclofenac but demonstrated better tolerance among patients with knee OA. Curcumin can be an alternative treatment option in the patients with knee OA who are intolerant to the side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

How Curcumin Can Help with Memory and Conditions Like Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Life News, May 2019
The most beneficial compound found in turmeric is curcumin, and it can help support memory functions and contribute to a feeling of calmness and bring relief from mental stress or strain. It has also been shown to lessen fatigue as well as promote better heart health. Curcumin is also known to contribute to the increase of BDNF (a brain hormone), which then enhances the function of the brain’s neurons, encouraging growth and promoting strength. Also, one of the features of diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s is the buildup of amyloid-beta proteins or plaque. In some studies, curcumin was found to have the potential to obstruct the development of this plaque.

The major health benefits of Turmeric
Power Living, May 2019
Curcumin has major anti-inflammatory effects, according to a study which researched the efficacy of curcumin in the treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. It has been found to treat other inflammatory conditions effectively as well. It is beneficial for your cardiovascular health, supplementing daily with turmeric has been found to have as many benefits in improving our cell function in the arteries as one hour of aerobic exercise. It is believed that turmeric may play a role in preventing Alzheimers disease. This condition is related to a build up of Amyloid-Plaques in the brain, and curcumin has been found to aid in removing these build ups. Curcumin acts as a natural anti-depressant, where studies show it increases the brain’s serotonin and dopamine levels, as well as increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels (BDNF). Low levels of BDNF has been associated with depression. It offers anti-aging benefits. Oxidation and inflammation within the body are linked to aging and curcumin, a powerful anti-oxidant, potentially preventing these processes from occurring within the body.

Remedies To Help Reduce Inflammation
Romper, May 2019
It's almost impossible to look at inflammatory remedies without mentioning this particular spice. "Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as a medicinal herb," says LA-based naturopath Dr. Saman Faramarzi. As it turns out, turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to Foods. If you want to give this spice a try, then making turmeric milk (AKA golden milk) at home is a simple introduction, according to Elite Daily.

The Golden Spice: 5 Incredible Haldi Benefits That Would Take You By Surprise
NDTV, May 2019
Curcumin with its amazing anti-inflammatory abilities helps suppress chronic inflammation. Scientific research has shown a positive co-relation between curcumin and weight loss by preventing the growth of fat cells and it also protects against the negative impact of obesity on our health. Curcumin has been documented to improve insulin sensitivity, reducing elevated BP, and controlling triglyceride and cholesterol levels while improving HDL cholesterol. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin is the main reason of the health benefits of turmeric. It has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and increase the activity of our body's antioxidants. Curcumin has been found to have the strongest antioxidant effects when compared with other compounds.

Prevent Autoimmune Diseases
Medical Daily, May 2019
People are obsessed with turmeric supplements to fight pain and inflammation. Scientific evidence shows that curcumin, a pigment from turmeric root, regulates your immune system’s health and suppresses autoimmune diseases.

Anti-inflammatory foods that reduce pain
Baltimore Post Examiner, May 2019
Turmeric has a compound known as curcumin which has been found to be as effective as anti-inflammatory medications. Curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidants. It’s a better alternative because it has no side effects like the medication itself.

Best supplements for diabetes
Express, May 2019
Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, could help to reduce insulin resistance, and subsequently protect against diabetes, said registered nurse David Spero. It improves insulin function, which allows more insulin to get into cells, he claimed. Adding turmeric to your diet could also lower your cholesterol and even prevent some types of cancer, added the nurse. “One diabetes medicine may lower blood sugar and cholesterol, protect your eyes and kidneys, relieve pain, prevent cancer, and improve your sex life. It also tastes good,” Spero wrote on Diabetes Self-Management. “This medicine is turmeric, made from the root Curcuma longa, a member of the ginger family. “Curcumin may also help treat aspects of diabetes, both type 1 and type 2.

Best supplements for arthritis
Expess, May 2019
Turmeric contains a chemical called curcumin, which can reduce pain and swelling by blocking inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. A clinical trial using a turmeric supplement in 2010 showed long-term improvement in pain and function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, A small study in 2012 using a curcumin product also showed more reduced joint pain and swelling in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis, when compared to diclofenac sodium.

Foods that Help Anxiety
Care2, May 2019
Turmeric has been shown in numerous studies to soothe both depression and anxiety. Not only do turmeric’s powerful phytochemicals do a stellar job of counteracting inflammation, but turmeric can help balance the chronically activated stress response that is associated with anxiety. Supplements of curcumin extract will be the most therapeutic source, but it definitely doesn’t hurt to enjoy a golden latte once in a while, either.

The One Supplement That Will Take Your Recovery To The Next Level
Mind Body Green, May 2019
Turmeric has proven its weight in (literal) gold with regards to fighting inflammation. That’s because its active compound, curcumin, is anti-inflammatory and has many preventative health benefits. And given that the root cause of many diseases is inflammation, turmeric has risen in popularity in both its whole, ground, and supplement form.

Reasons to Add Turmeric to Your Diet
IBC News, May 2019
Turmeric can help you reduce inflammation. The presence of curcumin in turmeric makes it a good remedy to fight inflammation. It is extremely good for arthritis patients. It can help arthritis patients treat inflammation naturally. There are several risk factors which can contribute to cancer. Various studies indicate that curcumin can reduce the growth of cancerous cells. According to the studies, turmeric consumption can help you reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer and many others. Curcumin can also stimulate brain function and improve memory. According to studies, turmeric can help you boost brain power. It can also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and depression. It will also stimulate logical thinking.

More muscles in old age thanks to curcumin supplementation
Ergo-Log.com, April 2019
More muscles in old age thanks to curcumin supplementation. As you get older, your body loses more and more muscle mass. Initially the decay of your muscles is so slow that you hardly notice it, but every year the decay process runs a little faster than the year before. Supplementation with curcumin, the most important bioactive substance in turmeric, can block this process. This is evident from an animal study that will shortly appear in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Natural food for the prevention of cancer
The Indian Talks, April 2019
Curcumin is a component of turmeric. Studies in mice have shown that curcumin prevents the occurrence of tumors caused by various carcinogenic factors. Angiogenesis is the process of forming capillaries. In the case of a cancer that may have occurred due to earlier DNA damage, it is a process that makes it possible to feed the cancer so that it can develop. In this way, micro-gas is transformed into a cancer capable of growing and attacking tissues. The purpose of curcumin is to inhibit the formation of new blood vessels that feed the cancer, depriving it of the possibility of taking nutrients and developing cancer.

Turmeric outperforms chemotherapies in treating cancer
Reports Health Care, April 2019
Curcumin is one of the active compounds in turmeric. It is responsible for most of the health-promoting effects offered by the spice. Curcumin, reportedly, benefits conditions like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurological issues, cancer, and other chronic, inflammatory diseases. One research team analyzed a total of 19 test tube and five animal studies. They evaluated the ability of turmeric extracts to fight or prevent glioblastoma. The researchers found that curcumin inhibits the growth of cancer cells and induce cell death in certain subpopulations of glioblastoma tumors. Thus, it can serve as a potent therapeutic agent for treating cancer. The other study was published in the journal Nutrition and Cancer. It discovered the possibility to get a bioactive dose of curcumin into human glioblastoma cancer cells via oral delivery methods. Four days before surgical removal of brain tumors, the human volunteers for the study were given 70 milligrams of a curcuminoid combination three times in a day. During the surgery tumor and blood samples were collected for analyzing the curcuminoid concentrations. The tumors were found to have detectable levels of curcuminoids. This made the researchers conclude that oral treatments alter the energy metabolism of tumors. Many other studies also reveal the potent anti-cancer properties of curcumin. However, curcumin extracts are still not being used in cancer therapy. Researchers suggest the pharmaceutical industries to make use of this wonder spice for treating cancer. It can serve as a convenient, natural and safe treatment for the condition.

How To Use Turmeric To Fight Diabetes
Post News, April 2019
Hundreds of studies have been conducted on curcumin (the most important component of turmeric) and its effects on diabetes. The results about using turmeric for diabetes have been extremely encouraging. In this post, we talk about everything you possibly need to know about turmeric and turmeric for diabetes can be helpful. The curcumin in turmeric has been credited with most of its anti-diabetic effects. It was found to lower blood glucose levels and even fight inflammation – which is one severe effect of diabetes. One 2013 study conducted by the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine showed how curcumin could lower the glucose levels and help improve other diabetes-related conditions . Even turmeric extracts (often found in pharmacies) were found to make diabetes more manageable. And they also prevented other diabetes-related complications like nerve damage and cataracts.

Protective effects of amifostine, curcumin, and melatonin against cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury
Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology, April 2019Amifostine, curcumin, and melatonin reduced the increases in serum urea and serum creatinine levels following cisplatin administration and reduced the levels of TNS, HPS, NF-κB/p65, 8-OHdG, and caspase-3 expressions (p < 0.05). ROS-scavenging antioxidants may be a promising means of preventing acute kidney disease in patients using cisplatin in the treatment of malignant tumors.

Nutrition: Get the protective power of phytonutrients
Duluth News Tribune, April 2019
Curcuminoids are phytonutrients found in turmeric root, which is a spice traditionally used in Indian cuisine. Curcumin offers anti-inflammatory benefits and may help prevent or treat colorectal cancer.

Health Benefits of Turmeric
Akhabar News, April 2019
Turmeric contains curcumin, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Most studies used turmeric extracts that are standardized to include large amounts of curcumin. Chronic inflammation contributes to many common Western diseases. Curcumin can suppress many molecules known to play major roles in inflammation. Curcumin has powerful antioxidant effects. It neutralizes free radicals on its own but also stimulates your body’s own antioxidant enzymes. Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in your brain. Curcumin leads to several changes on the molecular level that may help prevent and perhaps even treat cancer. Due to its many positive health effects, such as the potential to prevent heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer, curcumin may aid longevity.

Herbs & spices with the most powerful health benefits
New Times, April 2019
First and foremost, turmeric is an incredible inflammation fighter. It can even make a significant difference in individuals who suffer from rheumatic pain. This is because of constituent curcumin – its active constituent and yellow bioactive compound, lending turmeric its colour. Curcumin has a wide variety of biological interactions when consumed. Its anti-inflammatory benefits make it a good choice for healing leaky gut, improving digestion, and addressing autoimmune issues with inflammatory side effects. Due to curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties, it has the ability to slow down inflammation-related ageing processes and diseases. Curcumin is also effective at increasing antioxidant capacity in the body. It’s one of the most concentrated antioxidant foods you can consume! This means an overall reduction of oxidative stress. Finally, curcumin can increase immunity with its antibacterial and anti-viral properties, protect against cancer and the development of tumours, and improve heart health.

Here's How Turmeric Could Help Keep Inflammation At Bay
NDTV, April 2019
"Curcumin has a medicinal effect comparable to drugs, such as hydrocortisone and phenylbutazone, and can be used to provide relief from rheumatoid arthritis, treat inflammatory bowel disease, protect against diabetes, and even avoid heart disease and stroke by preventing the build-up of plaque in the arteries," notes the book 'Healing Foods'.

Super foods every woman should include in her diet
The Hans India, April 2019
Turmeric may be the most effective nutritional supplement in existence. Many high-quality studies show that it has major benefits for your body and brain. Curcumin, a plant nutrient that gives turmeric its deep golden hue, has long been used in Eastern medicine to treat infections and help speed wound healing.

Turmeric: This must-have spice found in your kitchen is full of benefits
Times of India, April 2019
Turmeric comes from the root of Curcuma longa, a plant of the ginger family and contains compounds with medicinal properties. These compounds are called curcuminoids, the most important of which is curcumin. Numerous studies suggest that this spice is beneficial for both body and brain.

Foods to keep your brain, memory sharp
Daily Sabah, April 2019
Turmeric: With its active ingredient curcumin, turmeric is a strong yet natural antioxidant. This plant, which has been used for its medical benefits throughout history, helps your brain receive more oxygen, learn and process information easier.

Effects of turmeric and curcumin on oral mucositis: A systematic review
Phytotherapy Research, April 2019The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of turmeric and curcumin in the management of oral mucositis in cancer patients undergoing chemo and/or radiotherapy. Patients treated with turmeric/curcumin experienced reduced grade of mucositis, pain, erythema intensity, and ulcerative area. Current evidence suggests that topical application of turmeric or curcumin is effective in controlling signs and symptoms of oral mucositis. Thus, further investigation is required to confirm the promising effect of turmeric and curcumin in oral inflammatory lesions.

Effects of Prolonged Dietary Curcumin Exposure on Skeletal Muscle
International Journal of Molecular Sciences, April 2019
Curcumin is a phenolic compound shown to upregulate antioxidant defenses and directly quench RONS in vivo. Consumption of curcumin coupled with reduced food intake imparted beneficial effects on aged skeletal muscle. The benefit of curcumin on aging skeletal muscle should be explored further.

Curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin induce cell death in Ara‐C‐resistant acute myeloid leukemia
Phytotherapy Research, April 2019
The effective use of curcumin as an anticancer agent has been demonstrated in clinical trials. Tetrahydrocurcumin, a major curcumin metabolite, exhibits pharmacological activities similar to those of curcumin. Curcumin induces cell death mainly through the apoptosis pathway, and tetrahydrocurcumin induces cell death mainly via an autophagy pathway in HL60 cells. The results demonstrated that curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin induced cell death by apoptosis and autophagy, respectively, in Ara‐C‐resistant HL60 cells. Thus, curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin have potential applications in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia with Ara‐C resistance.

Curcumin inhibits the proliferation and invasion of MG-63 cells
OncoTargets and Therapy, April 2019
The aims of this study were to determine the effect of curcumin on osteosarcoma (OS) cells due to inactivation of the p-JAK2/p-STAT3 pathway and evaluate the prognostic value of this pathway in OS. Curcumin-mediated inhibition of the proliferation and migration of MG-63 cells was associated with inactivation of JAK/STAT signaling.

Dietary curcumin enhances intestinal antioxidant capacity
Poultry Science, April 2019
The study investigated the effects of dietary curcumin supplementation on tissue distribution of curcumin and its metabolites, intestinal antioxidant capacity, and expression of detoxification-related genes in ducks. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 200 to 800 mg/kg curcumin enhanced the accumulation of curcumin and its metabolites in jejunum as well as increasing the antioxidant capacity and detoxification potential, which play major roles in the protection of duck intestines against damage.

Histopathological and biochemical studies on the effect of curcumin and taurine against bisphenol A toxicity
Environmental Science and Pollution Research, April 2019
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in environmental xenoestrogen. In the present study, olive oil, curcumin, taurine, BPA, curcumin plus BPA, and taurine plus BPA were exposed to rats for 4 weeks via gavage. Content of malondialdehyde and activities of antioxidant enzymes (GPx, GST, SOD, CAT) and also histopathological and cytopathological changes of heart were studied. No significant changes in all studied parameters were seen between control, olive oil, curcumin, and taurine-treated groups. However, there were significant differences in levels of malondialdehyde and activities of antioxidant enzymes in BPA-exposed rats and some histo/cytopathological changes determined. In curcumin plus BPA-exposed and taurine plus BPA-exposed groups, we measured the preventive effects on some parameters but not exactly. As a result, curcumin and taurine significantly minimized BPA-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

Protective Effects of Curcumin Against Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in the Nervous System
Molecular Neurobiology, March 2019
Curcumin, an active ingredient of turmeric, can affect all these pathways and exert neuroprotective activity culminating in the amelioration of I/R injury in the nervous system. In this review, we discuss the protective effects of curcumin against I/R injury in the nervous system and highlight the studies that have linked biological functions of curcumin and I/R injury improvement.

Top 5 Benefits of Turmeric for your Health
The Frisky, March 2019
Curcumin, a recognized anti-inflammatory, is the main component of turmeric. Curcumin is said to be as effective as drugstore anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and aspirin. Curcumin present in turmeric boosts the body’s metabolism, reduces stress as an adaptogen, and enhances weight loss. All these factors combined increase the levels of good cholesterol in the body, and decrease the effects of bad cholesterol. It also helps in keeping blood sugar levels in check by stabilizing the glucose levels in the body. Curcumin boosts the production of a protein called BDNF, which is vital to the health of the brain. High BDNF levels generally result in better memory and mood.

Curcumin ameliorated myocardial infarction by inhibition of cardiotoxicity in the rat model
Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, March 2019
Curcumin is touted as a polyphenol phytocompound with appropriate cardioprotective properties. Curcumin was found to reduce oxidative status by reducing SOD and MDA contents ( P < 0.05). Gross and microscopic examinations revealed that the decrease of infarct area, inflammation response and collagen deposition in rats given ISO plus curcumin ( P < 0.05). We noted the superior effect of curcumin to reduce the number of apoptotic cardiomyocytes after 9 days. Data point the cardioprotective effect of curcumin to diminish the complication of infarction by the reduction of cell necrosis and apoptosis in a rat model of experimental infarction.

How to Stop Suffering from Chemo Brain
Care2, March 2019
The yellow-colored compound found in the curry ingredient turmeric, known as curcumin, offers more than delicious taste. It is a well-established brain-healer and memory booster. In a study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology researchers found that in just one hour after taking curcumin supplements, study participants showed significant performance improvement on memory and attention tasks compared to the placebo group. Ideally choose a standardized extract of curcumin. I usually recommend 400 mg of curcumin three times daily for people suffering from brain disorders.

Curcumin reduces development of seizurelike events
Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, March 2019
The percentage of recorded CA1 neurons displaying SLEs was lower in curcumin‐treated slice cultures compared to vehicle‐treated slices (25.8% vs 72.5%), whereas rapamycin did not reduce SLE occurrence significantly (52%). Western blot for phosphorylated‐S6 (pS6) and phosphorylated S6K confirmed that rapamycin inhibited the mTOR pathway, whereas curcumin only lowered pS6 expression at one phosphorylation site. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction results indicated a trend toward lower expression of inflammatory markers IL‐1β and IL‐6 and transforming growth factor β after 3 weeks of treatment with rapamycin and curcumin compared to vehicle. Our results show that curcumin suppresses SLEs in the combined hippocampal‐entorhinal cortex slice culture model and suggest that its antiepileptogenic effects should be further investigated in experimental models of TLE.

Which herbs help reduce inflammation?
Granite Gazette, March 2019
Turmeric typically comes in the form of a yellow powder from the root of the turmeric plant. It contains a chemical called curcumin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties. Several have shown that turmeric can help reduce inflammation and discomfort in people with . It works by limiting the production of molecules called cytokines, which cause inflammation. Researchers continue to how curcumin affects inflammation in a range of other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Curcumin has the evidence base for its anti-inflammatory effects compared with other herbal remedies.

Effects of curcumin on hypoxia-inducible factor
Pharmacological Research Journal, March 2019
A growing body of evidence indicates that curcumin, a natural bioactive compound of turmeric root, significantly targets both HIF-1 subunits, but is more potent against HIF-1α. In this review, we have summarized the knowledge about the pharmacological effects of curcumin on HIF-1 and the related molecular mechanisms that may be effective candidates for the development of multi-targeted therapy for several human diseases.

Foods to unclog arteries
Femina, March 2019
While the anti-cancer benefits of turmeric have been well-documented, the key ingredient curcumin is also beneficial to heart health. This is primarily because of its anti-inflammatory benefits, which directly impacts arterial health, reducing the damage to arterial walls. Vitamin B6 can control damage caused to blood vessels.

Turmeric: A Secret Weapon to Lose Weight & Keep It Off
Dr. Cesar Lara, March 2019
Curcumin appears to modulate several cellular pathways that contribute to this ongoing, damaging process. Indeed, curcumin's anti-obesity effects may be in part due to its inflammation-reducing properties. One additional relevant mechanism of action not discussed in this study is curcumin's capacity to cause programmed cell death in white fat cells. This may contribute to decreasing the overall ability of the body to store unhealthy fat. Curcumin's Health Benefits Given the research above and the plethora of studies on distinct health conditions, it would be unethical not to use curcumin. Its safety profile is documented, and it has been time-tested for thousands of years in a wide range of cultures. In fact, curcumin has shown to be at least as effective for depression(8) as the antidepressant Prozac and is capable of preventing the progression of prediabetes to diabetes. It is also known to strengthen and improve your digestion(9) and support healthy liver function. Which Type of Curcumin (Turmeric Extract) is Best? When cooking, choose a pure turmeric powder rather than a curry powder. The curry powder may contain very little curcumin when compared to turmeric. You can also take curcumin in supplement form, which is a more convenient method to achieve the dosage needed for the health benefits discussed above.

Protective effects of curcumin on radioiodine‐induced salivary gland dysfunction in mice
Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, March 2019
Curcumin and RI + amifostine groups showed evidence of tissue remodeling, with a greater number of salivary epithelial cells (AQP‐5‐positive), SG ductal cells (CK18‐positive), endothelial cells (CD31‐positive), and myoepithelial cells (α‐SMA‐positive). RI + curcumin and RI + amifostine groups alleviated RI‐induced cell death, demonstrating anti‐apoptotic effect, compared to the RI group. Both SOD activity and the protein expression levels of SOD2 were higher in the RI + curcumin and RI + amifostine groups than in the RI group. Our results demonstrate that curcumin ameliorates RI‐induced SG dysfunction in mice.

Top 5 Health Benefits Of Turmeric And Its Compounds You Need To Know
NB Post Gazette, March 2019
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties because of the compound Curcumin. Moreover, it helps in cutting out all the bacterial infection that has covered the wound. Curcumin can effectively cure and improve endothelium. Moreover, oxidation and inflammation is a major partner of heart diseases. As mentioned earlier, this spice has compounds which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties.

'Golden Elixir" made from turmeric
Press Republican, March 2019
Turmeric and especially its most active compound curcumin have many scientifically-proven health benefits, such as the potential to prevent heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer, according to a July 13, 2018 article on www.healthline.com It’s a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis.

Anti-Inflammatory Herbs
Care2, March 2019
If you’re thinking that turmeric seems to be good for just about everything, you’d be right. That’s because the curry ingredient contains a potent anti-inflammatory known as curcumin. In a study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry researchers found that curcumin improved the healing of tendonitis, which involves inflammation of the tendons that help maintain our body’s structural integrity.

Advantages of Curcumin
Most Inside, March 2019
Curcumin is a naturally occurring antioxidant abundantly found in the popular spice turmeric that has been used since ages in cooking and Ayurvedic medicines for its incredible health benefits. Turmeric holds a pious place in Ayurvedic medicine and is applied on cuts and burns due to its anti-septic properties. Turmeric milk is extensively consumed in India as turmeric is studied to cure gastrointestinal discomfort, respiratory issues and helps in treating various bodily disorders. The Indian food culture places peculiar importance for spices and it is mainly used for making curry dishes as it renders distinct colour, flavour and nutrition to the food. Being such a valued spice on the health front, people across the world now understand the health benefits of Curcumin. Various medical researchers worldwide have investigated on how consuming turmeric or curcumin supplements can alleviate various health issues.

Know your mesonutrients
Times of India, March 2019
The world has recognised the medicinal use of curcumin and now curcumin milk, also known as turmeric latte, and it is part of café menus internationally. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, and when you look at all the research, it’s curcumin that delivers the anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing benefits that the super-spice is famed for. So, up your curcumin quotient.

Ayurvedic Herbs May Help Slow Down Ageing
NDTV, March 2019
Turmeric, or haldi, is one kitchen ingredient that is widely used in a number of dishes across the world. Curcumin, an essential compound found in turmeric, is shown to possess powerful anti-ageing effect. According to the book, 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing House, "Curcumin reduces the build-up of the protein amyloid-b in the brain. Amyloid-b causes oxidative (free radical) damage and inflammation in the brain and is one of the main causes of Alzheimer's disease. Antioxidants in turmeric help to fight this free-radical damage."

Best supplements for arthritis: The Ayurveda plant supplement proven to support joints
Express, March 2019
Curcumin’s effect on reducing inflammation means it can also help protect your joints from wear and tear. “This includes easing symptoms of arthritis like joint movement and stiffness, according to a 2016 study in Journal of Medicinal Food.”

Best supplements for diabetes type 2 to avoid high blood sugar symptoms
Express, March 2019
Turmeric could help to lower your risk of high blood sugar, according to The Diabetes Council. Its active ingredient, curcumin, could help patients to improve their insulin sensitivity, it said. Diabetes patients that take turmeric supplements could significantly lower their blood sugar levels and insulin resistance, it added. “Curcumin is the yellowish/orangish powder which gives turmeric its beautiful colour in curry powder,” said The Diabetes Council. “It is widely used in many regions of the world for its pain-relieving features, improving digestion and liver functions. “A study discovered that curcumin decreases blood [sugar] levels and improved the sensitivity of insulin by reducing serum free fatty acids and increasing fatty acid oxidation.“Supplements containing curcumin significantly decreased fasting blood levels and insulin resistance in type 2 patients. “Use of curcumin also led to a significant decrease in serum, triglyceride fats, and an increase in lipoprotein lipase.”

Crusade against cancer: New treatment and nutrients you can rely on
The Heath Site, March 2019
Turmeric: It is rich in curcumin, a compound that is responsible for its yellow pigment. Being a powerful antioxidant, curcumin can potentially prevent chronic inflammation, responsible for some cancers. Just like ursolic acid, it also inhibits cancer cell growth. Curcumin is helpful in cancers pertaining to breast, ovary, uterus, kidney, bladder, brain, blood, colon and rectum, liver, pancreas, lung, etc. Add curcumin to your meals by sprinkling turmeric in your favourite dishes.

In vitro effect of curcumin on Schistosoma species viability
Experimental Parasitology, March 2019
Curcumin (CUR), the major phenolic compound present in rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), has been traditionally used against various diseases including parasitic infections. CUR was found to affect the antigenicity of surface membrane molecules of S. haematobium, but not S. mansoni. Of importance, CUR significantly (P < 0.05 to < 0.0001) affected S. mansoni eggs hatchability and viability, a ground for its use in chemotherapy of schistosomiasis mansoni and japonicum because of its increased bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract. The data together emphasize that CUR is a promising potential schistosomicidal drug.

20 Health benefits of Turmeric
InfoLoving.com February 2019
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is the root of a plant that belongs to the same family as ginger. It is even less known in western cuisine, except as part of the spice mixture curry. The specific orange-yellow color is what gives curry powder its yellow color. There are 3 different yellow pigments (curcuminoids) in the turmeric root and these are also the substances that give turmeric its beneficial effects. These curcuminoids all work anti-oxidatively, anti-inflammatory, and are toxic to tumor cells. The most bioactive and tested substance of the three is curcumin that also has antiviral and antifungal properties. About 3% (in weight) of the turmeric root is curcumin. Health benefits of Turmeric is unlimited according to its uses. Most studies on the curative effect of turmeric are done with the extracted curcumin and high doses of 500 mg to 4 grams per day. To get that kind of quantities you have to use supplements with curcumin. This is especially true for people who are really sick or suffer from a specific condition.

Curcumin Antidiabetic and Anticancer Potential
Anticancer Research, February 2019
Curcumin and cinnamaldehyde have been previously reported to have antidiabetic and anticancer potentials. Curcumin and cinnamaldehyde decreased the activity of PTP1B, and had inhibitory effects on the viability of MCF-7 cancer cells. Curcumin had a significantly higher inhibitory effect than cinnamaldehyde. Conclusion: Curcumin can be considered a potential agent for the treatment of type-2 diabetes or cancer.

Does turmeric/curcumin supplementation improve nonalcoholic fatty liver disease?
Phytotherapy Research, February 2019
We performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate the efficacy of turmeric/curcumin supplementation on serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to November 20, 2018. Results from pooled analysis revealed that turmeric/curcumin supplementation reduced ALT (MD: −7.31 UL/L, 95% CI [−13.16, −1.47], p = 0.014) and AST (MD: −4.68 UL/L, 95% CI [−8.75 −0.60], p = 0.026). When RCTs stratified on the basis of their treatment duration, the significant reduction in serum concentrations of ALT and AST was observed only in studies lasting less than 12 weeks. This review suggests that turmeric/curcumin might have a favorable effect on serum concentrations of ALT and AST in patients with NAFLD.

Amazing Health Benefits of Curcumin/Turmeric Supplements
JottedLines.com, February 2019
Turmeric is biologically closely related to Ginger and is a very common ingredient in South Asian cuisines. Also called the Golden Spice, this lustrous golden-yellow spice is also treated as a herb whose properties are associated with purity and auspiciousness. One of the important compounds in Turmeric is Curcumin, which is credited for giving the spice its distinct color. Recent research has also revealed a gamut of health benefits that Curcumin offers. We all know that aging and debility are caused in part due to oxidative damage incurred by our cells. Free radicals that are ingested via the food we eat react with proteins, fatty acids & can even damage our DNA. Curcumin capsules essentially negate the action of free radicals on top of augmenting the body’s own antioxidant enzymes. This way, Curcumin/Turmeric deals a double blow to free radicals. Curcumin supplements are found to instigate the production of neurons in adults. Conventional wisdom had it that our brain does not create any more neurons once we are past childhood. But recent theories pertaining to neuroplasticity and neuroadaptibility have shown how our brains have amazing abilities to regenerate and restructure in constructive ways to enhance the survival potential of brain-injured patients. But this process does not happen in a vacuum. Under a regimen of certain nootropics like Curcumin/Turmeric, BDNF levels were observed to increase significantly. BDNF is in essence a growth hormone that acts in the central nervous system. Since BDNF is found to be subdued in people suffering from various psychiatric and neurological disorders, an increase in BDNF is expected to improve these conditions.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the role of curcumin in prostate cancer patients
Prostate, February 2019
The anti-cancer activities of curcumin are well-documented from preclinical studies using prostate cancer models. Our objective was to evaluate the anti-cancer activity of oral curcumin in patients with prostate cancer. The proportion of patients with PSA progression during the active curcumin treatment period (6 months) was significantly lower in the curcumin group than the placebo group (10.3% vs 30.2%, P = 0.0259). PSA elevation was suppressed with curcumin intake during the curcumin administration period. Curcumin at this dose was well tolerated and safe. Turmeric is an excellent aid for digestion because it already contains many of the minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds you need to "help acid production, muscle movement, and nutrient absorption to keep things moving like they should." The curcumin in turmeric: • helps the muscle walls of the intestines relax • balances gut flora in the colon • increases production of stomach mucous • eliminates cholesterol • prevents gas and bloating during digestion • relieves IBS symptoms. Taking curcumin can actually boost BDNF levels back up over time and even reverse the damage. Higher serotonin and dopamine may also be side effects of taking curcumin. A study actually found that people that took curcumin in addition to Prozac fared better than those just on Prozac or just taking curcumin for depression.

Curcumin: Can it slow cancer growth?
Mayo Clinic, February 2019
Curcumin, a substance found in the spice turmeric, has long been used in Asian medicine to treat a variety of maladies. Now some research suggests that curcumin may help prevent or treat cancer. Curcumin is thought to have antioxidant properties, which means it may decrease swelling and inflammation. It's being explored as a cancer treatment in part because inflammation appears to play a role in cancer. Laboratory and animal research suggests that curcumin may prevent cancer, slow the spread of cancer, make chemotherapy more effective and protect healthy cells from damage by radiation therapy. Curcumin is being studied for use in many types of cancer.

Curcumin a known anti inflammatory and antioxidant agent
International Journal of Molecular Biology: Open Access, February 2019
Curcumin is an active yellow color curcuminoid compound which is a naturally occurring plant pigment that is mostly found in turmeric and is native to Southeast Asia and India.1 It has an earthy odor and somewhat bitter taste and is mostly used in culinary.2 It is reported that pure turmeric residues contains about 3 percent of curcumin by weight.3 However curcumin is also available in the form of turmeric extract supplements which contains higher concentration of curcumin.4 It exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.5 In addition to that it is an excellent healing agent.

Health benefits of curcumin

Some health benefits of curcumin are as follows:
Relieves inflammation
Curcumin is well known for its anti-inflammatory property that reduces chronic inflammation occurring in a number of medical conditions such as arthritis, bowel disease, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes etc.
It has the ability to effectively block the function of those enzymes that contributes in inflammatory pathway.
Supports skin health
Antioxidant property of curcumin helps in neutralizing free radicals that causes cell damage.
In addition to that it accelerates healing of the wounds and collagen deposition in the skin.10 
Curcumin is found to effective in treating psoriasis, dermatitis and scabies.11 
Lowers high blood sugar
Diabetes associated symptoms such as impaired wound healing, increased thirst, vision loss, nerve damage, weight loss etc could be overcome by the use of curcumin which increases insulin secretion to reduce high glucose level in the blood.12,13
Treatment of cancers
Curcumin has an anti-cancerous effect on the growth of cancerous and tumour cells.14 
It inhibits the function of cancer inducing growth factors and enzymes and blocks the signaling pathway that is involved in the development of cancer in organs like breast, colon, pancreas and lungs.15,16
Treatment of mental illnesses
Curcumin aids in the treatment of depression and anxiety by reducing its associated symptoms.17 
It increase the levels of omega-3 fatty acid that promotes the development of brain.18 Prevents blood clotting
Curcumin reduces platelet aggregation in the blood by inhibiting the formation of thromboxanes that causes clot formation in conditions like pulmonary embolism, stroke and deep vein thrombosis.19 
Reduces joint pain
Relieve rheumatoid arthritis related symptoms like stiffness, pain, swelling etc.20 
Regulates high cholesterol level 
Curcumin boost cardiac health by lowering high cholesterol levels in blood.21 
Improves detoxification 
Curcumin stimulates detoxification in order to protect the liver from diseases, allowing removal of toxins and cancer causing substances from the body.22 
Enhance brain function 
Curcumin maintains cognitive function and prevent the risks of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. It elevates the amount of brain derived neuro tropic factors which is involved in enhancing brain function, improving memory and reduces oxidative damage.24,25

Nootropic Supplements to Boost Memory & Brain Function
SD Entertainer, February 2019
Found in turmeric, curcumin has been shown to increase mental focus while reducing brain fog. The curcuminoids found in curcumin are effective at fighting oxidative stress caused by free radicals, boosting neural connections in the process.


Curcumin and Cancer
Cancer Therapy Advisor, February 2019
Curcumin inhibits cell proliferation and induces cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and senescence — through various mechanisms, across multiple different types of cancer cell lines. Curcumin has been shown to decrease the expression of multiple different enzymes, transcription factors, inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, and other cell-signaling components that are important for cancer growth and progression. Curcumin downregulates the expression of the transcription factor NF-κB, which is commonly highly expressed by cancer cells and is known to promote the development of cancer, metastasis, and tumor growth.2 In addition, curcumin arrests the cell cycle at the G1/S or G2/M phases by inhibition of different cyclins. Curcumin also induces apoptosis through caspase-dependent pathways, and decreases the expression of antiapoptotic proteins. Curcumin has been evaluated in animal models of different cancer types.3 These studies have generally shown that curcumin has antiproliferative effects. For example, a mouse model of colorectal cancer (CRC) that was treated by intraperitoneal injection of curcumin or vehicle control demonstrated that curcumin prolonged life and inhibited tumor growth.4 These data also suggest that curcumin upregulated the miRNA miR-130a, which decreased the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and led to prolonged survival. Studies in animal models of breast cancer demonstrated that curcumin also downregulates NF-κB, reduces metastasis, and inhibits angiogenic signaling resulting in decreased microvessel formation.5 Animal studies of pancreatic cancer have also demonstrated that curcumin inhibits tumor growth, suppresses proliferation, and reduces angiogenesis.


A powerful antioxidant: Curcumin protects your heart from damage caused by diabetes and smoking
Plant Medicine, February 2019
To protect your heart from damage caused by diabetes and smoking, take curcumin supplements. A study published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines found that curcumin protects the heart from the combined oxidative stress induced by diabetes and nicotine. In the study, researchers from King Saud University in Saudi Arabia assessed the ability of curcumin to ameliorate the combined oxidative stress induced by diabetes and smoking which can cause diabetic cardiomyopathy. Diabetes and cigarette smoking, which both cause oxidative stress, are primary factors that cause cardiovascular diseases. Curcumin is known to have protective effects against hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress. When curcumin was administered, it inhibited the diabetic and nicotine-induced oxidative stress, which was seen by the normalization of the plasma cardiac marker troponin I and CK-MB. Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that curcumin has a protective effect on heart tissues against the combined oxidative stress induced by diabetes and nicotine. Curcumin can also keep the heart healthy and protect it from diseases by improving the function of the endothelium or blood vessel lining. According to Healthline, this improvement in the blood vessel lining can significantly reduce the risk of endothelial dysfunction, which is a primary risk factor of heart disease. It prevents the endothelium from regulating blood pressure and blood clotting properly. Many other studies have confirmed this beneficial effect of curcumin. One study even suggested that curcumin is as effective as exercise in this respect. Another study suggested daily supplementation of curcumin can improve heart health by improving cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation. This, in turn, may prevent the onset of atherosclerosis, which is a disease in which plaque builds up inside the arteries.

Spice may protect against breast cancer
MiceTimes, February 2019
Studies have shown that curcumin (the main chemical component of turmeric) has a number of valuable properties. In particular, curcumin can play a supportive role in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease – it starts the process of protein production, which is struggling with brain damage by free radicals. In addition, it was revealed that curcumin can help in the treatment of skin cancer. The study, conducted by researchers from the cancer Center to them. Andersen at Texas a & m University (USA), curcumin was administered in the affected melanoma cell line, stimulated the destruction of malignant cells in tumors. There is also reason to believe that curcumin prevents the development of breast cancer. Expressive about this show in particular, experiments on mice conducted in the same the University of Texas. Now scientists are actively exploring other potential therapeutic properties of curcumin, in particular, for the treatment of multiple myeloma and pancreatic cancer, and the prevention of oral cancer.

Which herbs help reduce inflammation?
Medical News Today, February 2019
Turmeric typically comes in the form of a yellow powder from the root of the turmeric plant. It contains a chemical called curcumin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies have shown that turmeric can help reduce inflammation and discomfort in people with arthritis. It works by limiting the production of molecules called cytokines, which cause inflammation. Researchers continue to investigate how curcumin affects inflammation in a range of other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Curcumin has the most substantial evidence base for its anti-inflammatory effects compared with other herbal remedies.


Turmeric helps prevent diabetes
Orissa Post, February 2019
Curcumin which is a component of turmeric helps prevent fatty deposits in blood vessels and development of fat tissues. So, adding turmeric in diet helps one maintain a healthy weight. Turmeric also promotes healthy bones by decreasing loss of bone minerals in the body.

Curcumin shows heart health benefits by ‘multiple mechanisms’
Nutra Ingredients, February 2019
In addition to the total and LDL cholesterol reductions, the researchers noted that HDL cholesterol was unaffected by curcumin addition to the diet. “These results support our hypothesis and indicate that curcumin may prevent the progression of atherosclerosis by reducing lipid accumulation. It appears that curcumin may prevent the progression of atherosclerosis by reducing lipid accumulation on the aortic endothelium.

Can curcumin improve exercise performance in those with heart failure?
Medical News Bulletin, February 2019
Curcumin administration restored muscle force and prevented rapid fatigue. Finally, the authors demonstrated that the positive effects of curcumin on CHF mice were attributed to improved Nrf2 signaling and not due to improved cardiac function. In conclusion, the data reaffirmed the authors’ hypothesis that impaired Nrf2 signaling in skeletal muscle of CHF mice contributes to exercise intolerance. More specifically, impaired Nrf2 signaling prevents the skeletal muscle from defending itself against CHF-associated oxidative stress, which likely affects skeletal muscle performance and reduces exercise capacity. These findings were further strengthened by the notion that curcumin, a Nrf2 signaling promoter, improved exercise capacity in mice with chronic failure without noticeable improvements in heart function and blood flow. Collectively, the authors found that targeting the Nrf2 signaling pathway may improve exercise capacity and overall quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure.

Can ginger, turmeric and lemon juice reduce blood sugar?
Legit.ng February 2019
The component of the popular curry spice, turmeric, also can help to lower the high index to normal blood sugar level. Curcumin, polyphenol and antioxidants play a vital role in this process. They reduce the amount of glucose in blood by slowing down its formation the liver.

Diabetes mellitus: Blood sugar-lowering ginger + other root vegetables for type 2 diabetes
The Health Site, February 2019
Turmeric root: Curcumin, found in turmeric exerts helps moderate insulin levels and enhance the efficacy of anti-diabetic drugs. Antioxidant-rich turmeric fights free radicals and reduces insulin resistance in the body. A study conducted by Department of Pediatrics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center revealed that curcumin present in turmeric prevents protein glycosylation (where the protein molecule is altered) and lipid peroxidation (oxidative degradation of lipids), thereby increasing the person’s sensitivity to lower blood sugar levels.

Three lesser known facts of turmeric
Baltimore Post Examiner, February 2019
Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory- The active ingredient in turmeric is something call curcumin, which is known for fighting inflammation and being full of antioxidants. The curcumin in turmeric fights inflammation at the molecular level, blocking a molecule called NF-kB, which is linked to many different inflammatory diseases like arthritis and IBD. 2. It helps with depression - Taking curcumin can actually boost BDNF levels back up over time and even reverse the damage. Higher serotonin and dopamine may also be side effects of taking curcumin. 3. Turmeric helps with digestion - Turmeric is an excellent aid for digestion because it already contains many of the minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds you need to "help acid production. The curcumin in turmeric has many benefits which includes the muscle walls of the intestines relax, balances gut flora in the colon increases production of stomach mucous, eliminates cholesterol, prevents gas and bloating during digestion and relieves IBS symptoms.

Foods that can boost your brain power
Savannah Now, February 2019
This spice, commonly found in Indian food, turns out to have an almost endless list of health benefits. It has been tied to improving gastrointestinal issues, and reducing the chances of getting heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s. Turmeric has also been found to reduce inflammation, primarily due to a compound in it called curcumin. Diseases like depression and Alzheimer’s have been linked to lower levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a type of growth hormone that helps with the formation of new neural connections in the brain. Turns out curcumin has been found to increase brain levels of BDNF. So by adding turmeric to soups and other dishes, you’ll be delaying or even reversing the effects of declining brain function.

Inhibition mechanism of cathepsin B by curcumin molecule: a DFT study
Theoretical Chemistry, February 2019
One of the natural compounds named curcumin has a well-documented history of medicine in India, which is currently in clinical trials for the treatment of various cancers. However, the inhibition mechanism of the curcumin molecule is not yet clear. In this present study, the inhibition of cathepsin B by the curcumin has been studied by quantum chemical methods using DFT method at M062X/6-31 + g(d,p)//B3LYP/6-31g(d) level of theory to obtain a complete picture of possible reaction paths. Based on the obtained results, the Cys29 can undergo nucleophilic attack at any one of the four reactive sites of the curcumin. The low activation energy 1.43 kcal/mol along with low negative reaction energy − 6.82 kcal/mol suggests that attack of Cys29 at C63 atom is the most feasible reaction path. These results suggest that curcumin can be used to develop less toxic cathepsin B inhibitors for the treatment of cancer disease.

Science confirms turmeric as effective as 14 drugs
Health Nut News, February 2019
If ever there were an herb that puts existential fear into the bottom line of pharmaceutical companies, its turmeric.

Are mesonutrients the new macronutrients?
Femina, February 2019
Mesonutrients are the active compounds that are present in each food, which are responsible for good health. Typically found in foods that are classified as superfoods, it is not just important to eat these foods – it is important to eat them the right way, so as to obtain the maximum benefits of the mesonutrients. One of the key mesonutrients is a staple in the Indian kitchen – turmeric. It has over 200 active compounds, and the key compound to watch out for is curcumin, which has anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory benefits.

The Unsung Benefits of Turmeric... and Why You Should Use It
Women.com, February 2019
The active ingredient in turmeric is something call curcumin, which is known for fighting inflammation and being full of antioxidants. The curcumin in turmeric fights inflammation at the molecular level, blocking a molecule called NF-kB, which is linked to many different inflammatory diseases like arthritis and IBD. Studies have found turmeric to be just as effective as medication but without the side effects that many anti-inflammatory medications have. In fact, one study found of rheumatoid arthritis found 500 mg a day of curcumin was more beneficial than diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory drug.

Impact of curcumin on energy metabolism in HIV infection: A case study.
Phytother Res, February 2019
Curcumin is a natural bioactive compound, which interacts with molecular targets and holds important metabolic properties. Oral curcumin supplementation can positively modulate the energy metabolism of people living with HIV/AIDS using the ART.

Efficacy of curcumin for management of oral submucous fibrosis: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials
Science Direct, February 2019
Six clinical trials comprising 298 patients were included. All studies found curcumin to be effective in the management of OSF. Three studies found significantly higher improvement in burning sensation in the curcumin group compared to controls, whereas three studies found comparable results. With regards to clinical signs, two studies showed better improvement in mouth opening in the curcumin group; three studies reported no differences in effectiveness; and only one study found curcumin to be inferior to conventional therapy. The available evidence remains inconclusive but suggests that curcumin is a promising effective treatment option for the management of patients with OSF. Further well-designed clinical trials with large sample sizes and adequate follow-up periods are highly warranted.

Curcumin improves the effect of a reduced insulin dose on glycemic control and oxidative stress in streptozotocin‐diabetic rats
Phytotherapy Research, February 2019
Isolated treatments using curcumin or insulin in a reduced dose (1 U/day) decreased glycemia, dyslipidemia, and biomarkers of liver and kidney damage and increased the activity of hepatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase), however, only to a lesser extent than 4‐U/day insulin, without improvements in catalase activity or plasma lipid peroxidation. Decreases in glycemia, dyslipidemia, and tissue damage markers were more evident in the curcumin + 1‐U/day insulin treatment than those seen in isolated treatments. The activity of hepatic antioxidants, including catalase, was further increased, and biomarkers of oxidative damage were decreased. Curcumin with a reduced insulin dose appears to be a promising strategy for combating the complications associated with diabetes and oxidative stress.

Curcumin Suppresses Hepatic Stellate Cell-Induced Hepatocarcinoma Angiogenesis
Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, February 2019
Curcumin could significantly suppress the HSC-induced effects in HCC and could abrogate ROS and HIF-1α expression in HCC. HIF-1α or connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) knockdown could abolish the aforementioned curcumin affection. Moreover, CTGF is a downstream gene of HIF-1α. In addition, nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and glutathione (GSH) are involved in curcumin protection of HCC. These data indicate that curcumin may induce ROS scavenging by upregulating Nrf2 and GSH, thus inhibiting HIF-1α stabilization to suppress CTGF expression to exhibit its protection on HCC. Curcumin has a promising therapeutic effect on HCC. CTGF is responsible for curcumin-induced protection in HCC.

Curcumin ameliorates glyoxylate-induced calcium oxalate deposition and renal injuries in mice
Sciene Direct, February 2019
Curcumin, the predominant active component of turmeric, has been shown to have pleiotropic biological and pharmacological properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects. Curcumin could significantly alleviate CaOx crystal deposition in the mouse kidney and the concurrent renal tissue injury. The underlying mechanism involved the combination of antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, inhibiting autophagy, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic activity and the ability to decrease expression of OPN and CD44 through the Nrf2 signaling pathway. The pleiotropic antilithic properties, combined with the minimal side effects, make curcumin a good potential choice to prevent and treat new or recurrent nephrolithiasis.

Curcumin supplementation reduces insulin resistance and blood lipids in individuals with high risk of type 2 diabetes
Lipids in Health and Disease, February 2019
nsulin sensitivity was significantly improved in the CC supplemented group (32.7 ± 10.3%) compared to PL (P = 0.009). FO and CC-Curcumin tended to improve insulin sensitivity by 14.6 ± 8.5% and 8.8 ± 7.7% respectively, but the difference did not reach significance. Triglyceride levels were further increased in the PL (26.9 ± 7.4%), however, CC and CC-Curcumin supplementation reduced the triglycerides, Curcumin resulted in the greatest reduction in triglycerides (− 16.4 ± 4.5%, P < 0.001). Conclusion Reduction in insulin resistance and triglycerides by curcumin and LCn-3PUFA appears to be attractive strategies for lowering the risk of developing T2D

Curcumin attenuates adhesion molecules and matrix metalloproteinase expression in hypercholesterolemic rabbits
Science Direct, February 2019
Curcumin, the yellow substance found in turmeric, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anticancer, and lipid-lowering properties. Curcumin reduced the levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in serum by 30.7%, 41.3%, 30.4%, and 66.9% (all P < .05), respectively, but did not affect high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. In addition, curcumin attenuated HCD-induced CD36 expression, circulating inflammatory cytokines, and soluble adhesive molecule levels. Curcumin reduced the mRNA and protein expression of intracellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, P-selectin, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1, and it inhibited HCD-induced up-regulation of MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9. Our results demonstrate that curcumin exerts an antiatherosclerotic effect, which is mediated by multiple mechanisms that include lowering serum lipids and oxidized low-density lipoprotein, thus modulating the proinflammatory cytokine levels and altering adhesion molecules and MMP gene expression.

4 Health Benefits Of Turmeric
Medical Daily, January 2019
"Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory compounds called curcuminoids, and these curcuminoids have been associated with a positive effect on various diseases," said Anya Guy, a Mayo Clinic dietitian. Inflammation, as you may know, it the cause of several long-term health conditions. As a result, many studies have examined the potential of turmeric to ward off heart disease or reduce the risk of certain cancers. It is said that curcumin can help in reducing inflammation in pancreatic, fat and muscle cells. While most research on the link has involved rats, there was a clinical study in 2015 which saw 44 human participants experiencing a healthy weight loss over the course of two months. In a review published in 2016, participants from many trials reported that their osteoarthritis-related pain had reduced after taking curcumin. "Its efficacy in reducing pain, physical function, and quality of life among osteoarthritic patients has been demonstrated in many clinical trials," the authors wrote.

Effects of oral curcumin ingested before or after eccentric exercise on markers of muscle damage and inflammation.
Scand J Med Sci Sports, January 2019
We examined the effect of curcumin (CUR) ingestion before or after exercise on changes in muscle damage and inflammatory responses after exercise. Increases in IL-8 were significantly reduced 12 h after exercise when curcumin was ingested before exercise. In Exp. 2, compared to the PLA subjects, MVC torque and ROM were higher 3-7 days and 2-7 days after exercise (P<0.05), respectively, whereas muscle soreness and CK activity were lower 3-6 days and 5-7 days after exercise (P<0.05), respectively, in curcumin subjects. Curcumin ingestion before exercise could attenuate acute inflammation, and after exercise could attenuate muscle damage and facilitate faster recovery.

6 Things That Happen To Your Body When You Eat Turmeric Every Day
Healthy Food House, January 2019 
Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory, due to the presence of numerous anti-inflammatory compounds, such as curcumin, one of its most abundant compounds. After reviewing more than 700 studies, Dr. James Duke, a well-respected ethnobotanist, found that turmeric effectively outperformed many pharmaceutical drugs prescribed for various chronic, debilitative conditions, without causing any significant side effects. Curcumin eliminates plaque buildup in the arteries, and thus lowers the risk of atherosclerosis, which can cause a heart attack or stroke. It also lowers bad cholesterol known as LDL and prevents the formation of blood clots. Researchers have shown that curcumin triggers the production of bile in the gallbladder, and turmeric acts as a potential safeguard against remission in the case of ulcerative colitis. Turmeric has excellent anti-inflammatory properties, and rheumatoid arthritis patients who supplemented curcumin into their diets found that it led to a “reduction in tenderness” and a reduction in “disease activity”. Curcumin improves our ability to learn and process in different environments and prevents the development of neurodegenerative conditions, such as – dementia disorders and Alzheimer’s. Scientists have even proven that turmeric may aid in neuroplasticity, which is the development of new brain connections. According to Dr.Mercola: Curcumin is capable of crossing your blood-brain barrier, which is one factor that has led researchers to investigate its potential as a neuroprotective agent for neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. The potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin suggest it may also promote brain health in general. In the case of Alzheimer’s, recent animal research14 has discovered another bioactive ingredient in turmeric, besides curcumin, that adds to its neuroprotective effects. According to researchers at the American Cancer Society, curcumin“ interferes with several important molecular pathways involved in cancer development, growth, and spread.” Moreover, the US National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health published a study which showed that curcumin has potent cancer-fighting properties: “The activity of curcumin reported against leukemia and lymphoma, gastrointestinal cancers, genitourinary cancers, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, lung cancer, melanoma, neurological cancers, and sarcoma reflects its ability to affect multiple targets. Thus, an “old-age” disease such as cancer requires an “age-old” treatment.” “As noted by Dr. William LaValley—one of the leading natural medicine cancer physicians whom I’ve previously interviewed on this topic—curcumin is unique in that it appears to be universally useful for just about every type of cancer. This is odd, considering the fact that cancer consists of a wide variety of different molecular pathologies. One reason for this universal anti-cancer proclivity is curcumin’s ability to affect multiple molecular targets, via multiple pathways. Once it gets into a cell, it affects more than 100 different molecular pathways. And, as explained by Dr. LaValley, whether the curcumin molecule causes an increase in activity of a particular molecular target, or decrease/inhibition of activity, studies repeatedly show that the end result is a potent anti-cancer activity.”

How to live longer
Express, January 2019
Turmeric is packed with curcumin, which helps relieve long-term inflammation. Several studies have shown signs of inflammation are reduced in people who have taken capsules containing curcumin. Long-term inflammation can lead to health problems like inflammatory bowel disease, some cancers, dementia and arthritis. Turmeric may also help brain health, as curcumin may prevent amyloid-beta plaques forming in the brain - one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease - and may also help break them down. In addition, some lab-based studies have suggested curcumin may be able to kill cancer cells, particularly in the breast, bowel, stomach and skin, and prevent them from growing.

11 Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin
HealthSky, January 2019
Research shows that curcumin binds to toxic metals and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Curcumin is also a strong antioxidant that captures and neutralizes free radicals (that are pathogenic particles). 

This brings all kinds of health benefits. 

  • Research shows that the curcumin in turmeric has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. In some cases, it works better than an anti-inflammatory drug. 
  • The antioxidant effect of curcumin is very strong: animal research even shows that the antioxidant curcumin has a detoxifying effect in mercury poisoning
  • There are strong indications that the substance curcumin in yellow root has an inhibitory effect on the development of cancer cells. For example, research in rats has shown that curcumin can partially neutralize damage to cells in the liver, kidneys and brain, and thus prevent cancer in these organs. 
  • Research in humans shows that a curcumin supplement fights the pain better than the drug diclofenac. This is very beneficial, because the pain-relieving medication can cause serious side effects, while the natural substance curcumin does not damage the body. 
  • Alzheimer’s is caused by the fact that certain proteins (such as tau protein) clump in the brain, causing brain cells to die off. Studies in rats show that curcumin can prevent tau protein from coagulating. This keeps the brain healthy. 
  • Curcumin plays a major role in preventing and curing stomach ulcers, and 
  • supports a poorly functioning liver. Animal research shows that curcumin can reduce the risk of liver damage. Rats that were also given curcumin in their diet were less likely to suffer from liver disease than rats who did not. 
  • Research in rats shows that curcumin stimulates spatial memory. The rats given curcumin were significantly better at solving spatial puzzles than the rats that did not. 
  • In a study with 121 people undergoing cardiac surgery, participants were given 4 grams of curcumin or placebo, a few days before they were operated. The participants who received curcumin were 65% less likely to have a heart attack in the hospital. 
  • A recent article from 2017 looked at all the research done on turmeric and depression. This meta-analysis shows that the substance curcumin is indeed a safe and effective natural means to reduce depressive feelings. Curcumin can reduce the symptoms of depression, both on its own and in combination with other herbs. A very interesting outcome is that curcumin can strengthen the effect of antidepressants: the drugs for depression work better 
  • if curcumin is taken as a supplement. Turmeric capsules also contain much more of the active ingredient curcumin than the spice turmeric itself. In curcuma is about 3% curcumin, while that in turmeric capsules is 95%.


Curcumin attenuates collagen-induced inflammatory response through the "gut-brain axis"
J Neuroinflammation, January 2019
Previous studies have demonstrated that oral administration of curcumin exhibited an anti-arthritic effect despite its poor bioavailability. The present study aimed to explore whether the gut-brain axis is involved in the therapeutic effect of curcumin. Oral administration of curcumin restored the imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic tones in CIA rats and increased ChAT activity and expression of ChAT and VAChT in the gut, brain, and synovium. Additionally, VGX eliminated the effects of curcumin on arthritis and ACh biosynthesis and transport. Electrophysiological data showed that curcumin markedly increased neuronal excitability of the vagus nerve. Furthermore, selective α7 nAChR antagonists abolished the effects of curcumin on CIA. Our results demonstrate that curcumin attenuates CIA through the "gut-brain axis" by modulating the function of the cholinergic system. These findings provide a novel approach for mechanistic studies of anti-arthritic compounds with low oral absorption and bioavailability.

This Is How Much Turmeric You Need to Reduce Inflammation
Readers Digest, January 2019
Curcumin—the main active component which gives turmeric its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties—only makes up 3 percent of dry turmeric, according to Ali Webster PhD, RD, Associate Director of Nutrition Communications, International Food Information Council Foundation. “Turmeric extracts or isolated curcumin found in dietary supplements are much higher in curcumin, so they’re more likely to have an impact on inflammation than the dried spice,” she says. So a dash of turmeric in the occasional recipe may not have lasting anti-inflammatory effects—unless a person consumes turmeric or curcumin supplements on a regular basis, too. Here are 10 proven ways to fight inflammation. Most research says that taking in at least one gram of curcumin per day is necessary for measurable anti-inflammatory effects, Webster says

Turmeric benefits: Use this yellow-colored powder for easing arthritis pain
The Heath Site, January 2019
Many studies have vouched that a key compound in turmeric known as ‘curcumin’ fight against inflammation and it is helpful in treating joint disorders like arthritis. It has the ability to improve joint health and reduce arthritis pain as well.

Curcumin attenuates hyperglycemia-driven EGF-induced invasive and migratory abilities of pancreatic cancer
Oncology Report, January 2019
Effects of high glucose were counter-balanced by curcumin. EGF-induced proliferative, invasive and migratory abilities of BxPC-3 cells were abrogated by curcumin, LY 294002 and PD 98059. In addition, EGF-modulated activation of EGFR, ERK and Akt, as well as the expression of uPA and E-cadherin were inhibited by curcumin. Taken together, the present study indicates that curcumin suppresses hyperglycemia-driven EGF-induced invasion and migration of pancreatic cancer cells by inhibiting the EGF/EGFR signaling pathway and its downstream signaling molecules including ERK and Akt. Curcumin is a potential anticancer agent for pancreatic cancer.

A Computational Study of the Driving Forces and Dynamics of Curcumin Binding to Amyloid-β Protofibrils
Journal of Physical Chemistry, January 2019
We have recently shown that curcumin exerts a neuroprotective effect against Aβ40 induced toxicity on cultured neuronal cells through two possible concerted pathways – ameliorating Aβ oligomer-induced toxicity and inducing the formation of nontoxic Aβ oligomers, both of which involve curcumin binding to Aβ oligomers. Our results show that curcumin binds to specific hydrophobic sites on the protofibril surface and that binding is generally associated with the concomitant complexation of curcumin into dimers, trimers, or tetramers. Curcumin also binds to the protofibril growth axis ends, but without complexation. Analysis of the energetics of the binding process revealed that curcumin complexation contributes in an additive fashion to curcumin - Aβ protofibril interactions. Favorable curcumin-protofibril binding is driven by a combination of hydrophobic interactions between curcumin and protofibril, curcumin self-aggregation, and solvation effects.

Benefits of Turmeric Curcumin for Inflammatory Orbital Pseudotumor
Care 2, January 2019
Curcumin, the yellow pigment in turmeric thought to be responsible in part for the spice’s anti-inflammatory effects. Eighteen patients were given curcumin alone, and every one improved, showing “efficacy…comparable to corticosteroid therapy,” but without any side effects. A larger, follow-up study was similarly encouraging. A total of 106 patients who had had a uveitis relapse in the year before starting curcumin were followed for a year. As you can see at 1:10 in my video in my video, only 19 had relapses in the year after starting curcumin. Altogether, the 106 patients had had multiple relapses—a total of 275 times—in the year before starting curcumin, but, in the year on curcumin, they had only 36 relapses. If turmeric curcumin works for mild eye inflammation and serious eye inflammation, what about really serious eye inflammation, like idiopathic inflammatory orbital pseudotumours. Let’s break that down: “Idiopathic” means doctors have no idea what causes it—from the Greek idios, as in idiot. “Orbital” refers to the bony cavity that houses our eyeball, and “pseudotumor,” as in not really a tumor. A lot has changed since the study was published in 2000. “[I]nflammatory orbital pseudotumour is now generally attributed to low-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” so it does appear to be a form of cancer. Well, what can curcumin do about it? The researchers decided to look at curcumin because the available treatments are so toxic—steroids, radiation, and chemotherapy. In fact, all of the patients in the study were initially put on steroids but had to stop them because they either did not work or they had to be withdrawn because of complications. The researchers didn’t want to use radiation because they didn’t want to blind anyone. But they had to do something. All of the patients had so much swelling that they couldn’t move their eye as they normally would. If only there were some cheap, simple, and safe solution. Four out of the five patients who completed the study with curcumin therapy had a full response, defined as complete recovery with no residual signs or symptoms. In fact, complete regression of the eye dislocation and swelling occurred in all five out of five patients, but one patient continued to suffer some residual effects.

Curcumin ameliorates monosodium urate-induced gouty arthritis through Nod-like receptor 3 inflammasome mediation via inhibiting nuclear factor-kappa B signaling.
Journal of Cellular Biochemisty, January 2019
Curcumin is an active ingredient possessing anti-inflammatory efficacy. Curcumin regulated the production of cytokines by suppressing the expression of inflammasome key components, including NLRP3, caspase-1. Further studies showed that the suppressive efficacy of curcumin on inflammasome was mediated by inhibiting MSU-induced NF-κB signaling activation. Intraperitoneal administration of curcumin could ameliorate symptoms of MSU-induced gouty arthritis, including the joint circumference, infiltration of neutrophils in knee joints, and production of IL-1β, TNF-α, and elastase. Western blot analysis revealed that the levels of NLRP3, procaspase-1, caspase-1, pro-IL-1β, and IL-1β were downregulated by curcumin in vivo. These results indicated that curcumin could effectively ameliorate MSU crystal-induced gouty arthritis through NLRP3 inflammasome mediation via inhibiting NF-κB signaling both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting a promising active ingredient for the prevention and treatment of gouty arthritis.

Impact of dietary supplements, diet on metabolic health explored in review
Nutritional Outlook, January 2019Previous research indicates that curcumin (Curcuma longa), resveratrol, and quercetin, one of major flavonoids found in many plants, may exert a beneficial effect on the above metabolic parameters. Curcumin, specifically, has a polyphenolic structure with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to a number of the studies analyzed. Inflammation and oxidative stress are key contributors to metabolic syndrome and NAFLD.

Curry spice boosts exercise performance
Science Daily, December 2018
New research suggests that curcumin, a main ingredient in curry, may improve exercise intolerance related to heart failure. The study is published ahead of print in the Journal of Applied Physiology. Curcumin, a chemical that comes from the turmeric plant, has been used as a traditional Asian medicine for centuries, primarily to treat gastrointestinal ailments and skin wounds. Studies increasingly suggest that the compound may prevent or limit muscle wasting associated with a number of health conditions, including heart failure. Researchers from the University of Nebraska Medical Center theorized that a reduction in the normal signaling of Nrf2, a protein that regulates the expression of antioxidant enzymes, may play a role in the impaired expression of antioxidant enzymes. They examined the effects of curcumin, which is known to promote activation of Nrf2, on a mouse model of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. One group of mice with heart failure received daily doses of curcumin for 12 weeks, and another group did not receive treatment. The heart failure groups were compared to a control group of healthy mice that received curcumin and an untreated control group. The research team measured the exercise capacity of all the mice before and after curcumin treatment. The researchers also examined muscle fiber samples to assess enzyme expression levels. They found that expression of Nrf2 increased and levels of antioxidant enzymes improved in the animals with heart failure that were given curcumin. In addition, both groups that received curcumin -- even the animals without heart failure -- had improved exercise capacity when compared with the untreated groups, suggesting the effects of curcumin on skeletal muscle is not exclusive to heart failure. "These data suggest that activation of Nrf2 in skeletal muscle may represent a novel therapeutic strategy to improve ... quality of life" in people with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, the researchers wrote.

Curcumin Showing Promise In Alzheimer’s Research
World Health, December 2018
Curcumin/Turmeric has been used for thousands of years as both food and medicine. Growing bodies of research are showing it can help to fight Alzheimer’s disease, not only as a preventive but possibly as a cure. The potential of turmeric to help combat this debilitating disease cannot be ignored by mainstream medicine any longer, effects of this and others like it must be investigated more thoroughly; and experts are describing the effects of turmeric on Alzheimer’s patients as being remarkable. Much like most plant medicines turmeric has been largely ignored thanks to big pharma and the pharmaceutical industry’s all consuming grip on modern medicine and the blindly obedient public who follow by shunning those who dare think outside the sheepeople approved box. Scientists are beginning to wake up to the fact that medicinal plants do exist, and some even outperform big pharma’s concoctions. Recent research has shown that daily turmeric supplements taken for 12 weeks produced sizeable benefits in Alzheimer’s patients. Within one year patients began to recognize family members again according the the researchers. In all the study yielded impressive and promising results. Curcumin/turmeric has been studied for ability to help obliterate cancer, ward off neurodegenerative diseases and more, it is believed that curcumin extracts its benefits by enhancing processes associated with chemical signalling in cells and genes while boosting resistance to inflammation and stress. Curcumin/turmeric is also thought to help protect brain cells against premature aging, by binding to toxic proteins to help prevent forming of dangerous plaques while reducing oxidative stress and damage, lowering cholesterol, reducing inflammation signaling molecules, promoting clean up, and inducing protective mechanisms within the brain. University of Southern California researchers have also identified curcumin as prime source of improvement in Alzheimer’s patients via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and lipophilic action. Due to the various effects of curcumin including delayed degradation of neurons, metal-chelation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and decreased microglia formation, and decreased beta amyloid plaques overall memory in Alzheimer’s patients has improved. The team has concluded that curcumin is a promising treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

The natural polyphenol curcumin induces apoptosis in esophageal squamous cell cancer
Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research, December 2018
Curcumin is able to exert anti-tumor action through inhibiting the STAT3 signaling pathway. Giving its wide use in traditional medicines with low toxicity and few adverse reactions, it is conceivable that curcumin might be further explored as a unique STAT3 inhibitor for anti-cancer therapies.

New research on curcumin’s health benefits
Natural Products Insider, December 2018
Sports nutrition is an up-and-coming benefit sector for curcumin, especially in light of its potential to reduce inflammation and soreness caused by strenuous exercise. The antioxidant benefits of curcumin and its ability to modulate inflammatory pathways underscores its potential as an adjunct to recovery.1 In a recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, curcumin was shown to be an effective supplement for recovery after strenuous exercise.2 An additional study also reported a reduction in 24-hour pain scores as well as increased muscle performance after a muscle-damaging exercise.3 Curcumin is also finding potential in heart health, where the effects of its anti-inflammatory properties are being researched. Recently, a highly bioavailable form of curcumin was studied in a healthy population to examine its role in endothelial function, which plays a critical role in cardiovascular health.4 Curcumin’s direct impact on healthy circulation was measured using flow mediated dilation (FMD). The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed supplementing with 200 mg of curcumin had a clinically meaningful impact on potentially reducing cardiovascular disease by up to 50 percent in healthy individuals.

Curcumin and Vitamin D Treatment May Stabilize Disease in Patients with CLL and SLL
Cure Today, December 2018
In patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), high doses of curcumin and vitamin D could help stabilize the disease, according to new research presented at the American Society of Hematology’s (ASH) Annual Meeting in San Diego. Previous clinical studies have shown that curcumin, a chemical derived from turmeric, and vitamin D are both safe in high doses for patients with solid tumors. Additionally, the research presented at ASH notes that curcumin has been found to disrupt CLL cell interactions, induce cell death independent of DNA damage and upregulate vitamin D receptor levels in malignant cells. Given this, the researchers set out to examine whether the combination of curcumin and vitamin D could safely delay disease progression in patients with CLL/SLL. In their phase 2, open-label trial, the team enrolled a total of 35 previously untreated patients with asymptomatic, stage 0 to 2 CLL/SLL. The majority of patients (51 percent) were males with CLL (97 percent); 51 percent were stage 0, and 49 percent were stage 1. The median age was 60 years old. The 30 evaluable patients started out by receiving 8 grams of curcumin daily for one week, then added 10,000 IU of vitamin D3 orally. Both treatments were taken for up to six 4-week cycles. Patients received a median of five cycles, and the treatment was well tolerated. The most frequent side effects were diarrhea/gastrointestinal upset in 69 percent of patients, 14 percent of which experienced this at a grade 3. Eighteen patients completed all six cycles, while 10 withdrew consent, four discontinued treatment due to adverse effects and three patients’ disease progressed while on treatment. The primary endpoint of the study was the overall response rate (ORR), while secondary endpoints included event-free survival (EFS), time to next treatment overall survival (OS) and time to next treatment. Researchers also evaluated the levels of curcumin and vitamin D activity within CLL cells by using flow cytometry. The best response was stable disease in 28 of the 30 evaluable patients (93 percent). After a median follow up of 29 months, EFS was 72 percent, 74.1 percent had not started new CLL treatment, and OS was 100 percent. While no responses were seen, the majority of evaluable patients maintained stable disease while in treatment. The researchers concluded that because the combination of curcumin and high-dose vitamin D is safe and well-tolerated, additional extended follow up is now planned to examine how this treatment impacts the long-term progression of disease in patients with CLL/SLL.

Curcumin prevented human autocrine growth hormone in breast cancer cells
Molecular Biology Reports, December 2018
Curcumin (diferuloylmethane), a polyphenol derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa), has anti-proliferative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-hormonal effect via acting on PI3K/Akt, NF-κB and JAK/STAT signaling. This study aimed to investigate the role of NF-κB signaling and miR-182-96-183 cluster expression profile on autocrine GH-mediated curcumin resistance, which was prevented by time-dependent curcumin treatment in T47D breast cancer cells. Dose- and time-dependent effect of curcumin on T47D wt and GH+ breast cancer cells were evaluated by MTT cell viability and trypan blue assay. Apoptotic effect of curcumin was determined by PI and Annexin V/PI FACS flow analysis. Immunoblotting performed to investigate the effect of curcumin on PI3K/Akt/MAPK, NF-κB signaling. miR182-96-183 cluster expression profile was observed by qRT-PCR. Overexpression of GH triggered resistant profile against curcumin (20 µM) treatment for 24 h, but this resistance was accomplished following 48 h curcumin exposure. Concomitantly, forced GH induced invasion and metastasis through EMT and NF-κB activation were prevented by long-term curcumin exposure in T47D cells. Moreover, 48 h curcumin treatment prevented the autocrine GH-mediated miR-182-96-183 cluster expression stimulation in T47D cells. In consequence, curcumin treatment for 48 h, prevented autocrine GH-triggered invasion-metastasis, EMT activation through inhibiting NF-κB signaling and miR-182-96-183 cluster expression and induced apoptotic cell death by modulating Bcl-2 family members in T47D breast cancer cells.

Curcumin targets aggressive and lethal forms of cancer while leaving noncancerous cells unharmed
Natural News, November 2018
Curcumin, the most active constituent in turmeric, is a powerful antioxidant and is responsible for most of the spice’s magical health benefits. Studies have already shown, for example, that curcumin can cut the growth rate of prostate cancer tumor progression in half. Other studies have found that supplementing with curcumin can lead to a 36 percent decline in lung tumor size and a 40 percent reduction in colon tumor development. In a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers used models to show how turmeric can inhibit the DYRK2 enzyme. With the help of x-ray crystallography, they obtained 3-D images that show curcumin binding to this enzyme atomically. You might be wondering why we should be excited about this. It turns out that inhibiting the DYRK2 enzyme stops protein complexes known as proteasomes that are involved in cancer development. This action interferes with the proliferation of cancer cells, reducing tumors and slowing the cancer’s growth. This is great news for sufferers of proteasome-addicted cancers, such as triple-negative breast cancer and multiple myeloma. These cancers depend on the proteasomes that curcumin inhibits for their survival. While pharmaceutical proteasome inhibitors do exist, they have the undesirable effect of also damaging noncancerous cells at the same time. Curcumin, on the other hand, does this without damaging any healthy cells. Moreover, it carries very few side effects and can get the job done in smaller dosages. Perhaps even more excitingly, this isn’t the only way that curcumin helps fight cancer. It can also stop the blood vessels that give tumors life from growing and developing, and it can turn off the genes that promote the development of tumors. At the same time, it can help your body’s immune system to find and destroy any malignant cells. In addition, it can stop the production of the adhesion molecules that enable cancer cells to stick to cell walls. It also protects cell DNA from incurring cancerous mutations from environmental toxins and radiation. In other words, curcumin takes a multi-pronged approach to fighting cancer, seemingly trying to stop it at every turn.

Curcumin Inhibits Age Related Vascular Changes
WorldHealth.net November 2018
This study investigated effects of long term use of curcumin on vascular aging and chronic inflammation which is the cause of arteriosclerotic disease. 8 week old C57BL/6J mice were fed high fat diets or curcumin mixed high fat diets until the animals reached 80 weeks of age. Expression of antioxidant enzymes, heme oxygenase-1, oxidative stress, vascular aging, and inflammatory changes in the aorta were examined. Oxidative stress increased with decreases in sirt1 expression in the aorta, followed by increased amounts of senescent cells and enhanced inflammation in the animals fed the high fat diets alone. In the animals fed curcumin mixed high fat diets heme oxygenase-1 was induced in the aorta with suppression of oxidative stress; sirt1 expression was shown in the aorta to remain at a level comparable to that of 8 week old mice with suppression of increased senescent cells and enhanced inflammation resolving issues associated with high fat diets. According to the researchers curcumin may be a food with prophylactic functions against arteriosclerotic diseases, helping to control weight gain, increases in blood glucose levels and blood cholesterol levels associated with long term consumption of high fat diets; as well as multifaceted benefits such as anti-cancer effects, anti-inflammatory action, and antioxidative action, along with various physiological activities in vivo.

Curcumin Targets Cancer Cells
WorldHealth.net November 2018
Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that is attributed to most of the health benefits. It has been shown to cut growth rates of prostate cancer tumor progression by 50%; supplementation can lead to 36% decline in lung cancer tumor size, and 40% reduction in colon tumor development. 
In this study researchers used models to show how turmeric can inhibit DYRK2 enzymes using x-ray crystallography to obtain 3D images to demonstrate curcumin binding to this enzyme atomically. Inhibiting these enzymes stops proteasome protein complexes involved in cancer development, which interferes with cancer cell proliferation reducing and slowing cancer growth. Proteasome addicted cancer cells such as triple negative breast cancer and multiple myeloma depend on proteasomes for survival that curcumin inhibits. Pharmaceutical inhibitors do exist, but they also damage healthy cells along with the cancerous cells at the same time. Curcumin can do this while leaving healthy cells undisturbed, which is great news. 
Not only can curcumin target and help to fight cancer, it helps to stop blood vessels that give tumors life from growing and developing, and turns off genes that promote development of tumors. 
Curcumin also protects DNA from incurring cancerous mutations from radiation and environmental toxins. It would seem curcumin takes multipronged approaches to fighting cancer by trying to stop it at every turn.

Curcumin very effective senolytic affects
Scienceblog.com November 2018
Recent data suggest that curcumin, a phytochemical with cancer chemopreventive potential, might be useful in the treatment of several solid and hematological malignancies. Overall, this work shows that curcumin is capable of inducing topo−DNA complexes in cells with both topo I and topo II and increases the evidence suggesting that this dietary agent has potential to be tested in cancer chemotherapy.

This spice helps against tumors
BobrTimes.com November 2018
Curcumin has the property to engage in connection with a specific enzyme DYRK2 – this combined substance slows down the activity of cancer cells, preventing their rapid growth and uncontrolled reproduction in the body. Laboratory tests have shown that when curcumin is combined with medicinal substances for the treatment of specific varieties of tumors of blood, it greatly enhances their effectiveness and even reduces the side effects.

Curcumin Inhibits Age-Related Vascular Changes in Aged Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Nutrients, November 2018
Inhibiting the onset of arteriosclerotic disease, which has been increasing due to the westernized diet and aging, is a significant social challenge. Curcumin, a type of polyphenol, has anti-oxidative effects and anti-inflammatory action and is expected to treat and to have prophylactic effects on different diseases. In this study, we examined the effects of long-term administration of curcumin on vascular aging and chronic inflammation—the causes of arteriosclerotic disease. These results suggest that curcumin might be a food with a prophylactic function against arteriosclerotic disease.

Ancient drug curcumin impedes 26S proteasome activity by direct inhibition of dual-specificity tyrosine-regulated kinase 2
PNAS, November 2018
Curcumin, the active ingredient in Curcuma longa, has been in medicinal use since ancient times. Interestingly, curcumin synergizes with the therapeutic proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib to induce apoptosis in a variety of proteasome-addicted cancer cells, while this drug combination exhibits modest to no cytotoxicity to noncancerous cells. In a breast cancer xenograft model, curcumin treatment significantly reduces tumor burden in immunocompromised mice, showing a similar antitumor effect as CRISPR/Cas9-mediated DYRK2 depletion. These results reveal an unexpected role of curcumin in DYRK2-proteasome inhibition and provide a proof-of-concept that pharmacological manipulation of proteasome regulators may offer new opportunities for anticancer treatment.

Benefits of Golden Turmeric
Healthline.com October 2018

Research shows that ginger, cinnamon and curcumin — the active ingredient in turmeric — have potent anti-inflammatory properties (678). 
Studies even suggest that the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin are comparable to those of some pharmaceutical drugs with none of the side effects (910). These anti-inflammatory effects may reduce joint pain from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.For instance, one study in 45 people with rheumatoid arthritis found that 500 grams of curcumin daily reduced joint pain more than 50 grams of a common arthritis drug or a combination of curcumin and the drug (11). Similarly, in a 6-week study in 247 people with osteoarthritis, those given ginger extract experienced less pain and required less pain medication than those given a placebo (12). Studies show that curcumin may increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a compound that helps your brain form new connections and promotes the growth of brain cells (13). Low levels of BDNF may be linked to brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (1415). In a 6-week study, 60 individuals with major depressive disorders took either curcumin, an antidepressant or a combination. Those given only curcumin experienced similar improvements as those given antidepressants, while the combination group noticed the most benefits (23). Depression may also be linked to low levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). As curcumin appears to boost levels of BDNF, it may have the potential to reduce symptoms of depression (24). curcumin may improve the function of your blood vessel linings — known as endothelial function. Proper endothelial function is important for a healthy heart (28). In one study, people undergoing heart surgery were given either 4 grams of curcumin or a placebo a few days before and after their surgery. Those given curcumin were 65% less likely to experience a heart attack during their hospital stay than people in the placebo group (29). Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, may also kill cancerous cells and prevent the growth of new blood vessels in tumors, limiting their ability to spread (4445).


Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin
Mommyish.com October 2018
Turmeric and curcumin are believed to be as effective, if not more effective, than the most powerful anti-inflammatory drugs. Curcumin can increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a growth hormone that functions in your brain. Low levels of BDNF have been linked to brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and depression. Turmeric and curcumin may be effective at delaying some of those brain diseases, or even reversing them. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that can protect your body from free radicals, and boost your body’s own antioxidant enzymes. In addition to improving inflammation and oxidation, turmeric and curcumin improves the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of your blood vessels. Endothelial dysfunction is a major driving force behind heart disease, as it affects your body’s blood clotting and ability and blood pressure. In one of the most highly-regarded studies on curcumin, the group who received a curcumin supplement lowered their risk of heart attack by 65%. Several studies have shown that curcumin was more effective at managing the painful symptoms of arthritis than the strongest anti-inflammatory drugs. In an interesting controlled study, participants were put into three groups. One group took Prozac, one group took a curcumin supplement, and one group took both in conjunction. After six weeks, the group that took curcumin showed as much improvement as the group that took Prozac. The group that fared the best in the study was the one that took both.


10 Things That Happen When You Eat More Turmeric
Readers Digest, October 2018
We all know turmeric is an anti-inflammatory powerhouse, but do you know which parts of the body it can benefit the most?


Is it Time for a Curcumin-Based Mesothelioma Treatment?
Surviving Mesotheliom, October 2018
Yet another scientific study appears to confirm the power of the spice-derived compound curcumin as a weapon against malignant pleural mesothelioma. The Chinese researchers who conducted the latest study say the substance has the potential to be the basis of a whole new way of treating this aggressive asbestos cancer. This team tested curcumin on a line of mouse mesothelioma cells, both in the lab and in live animals, and published their promising results in the prestigious International Journal of Oncology. As a plant polyphenol, curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and has been the subject of numerous mesothelioma studies around the world in just the last three years. Curcumin appears to work in several ways, including disrupting mesothelioma cell DNA, inducing programmed cell death, and preventing the formation of a tumor-supporting blood supply (angiogenesis). Just as importantly — and in sharp contrast to other types of mesothelioma treatments — curcumin has very low toxicity. In the current study, Chinese researchers used a variety of sophisticated testing tools to assess the impact of curcumin on a mouse mesothelioma cell line. They applied the compound to cells in the lab and in mesothelioma tumors implanted under the skin of live mice. They found that curcumin exerted a range damaging effects on the mesothelioma cells including: Disruption of vital signaling pathways Induction of apoptosis Inhibition of blood vessel formation Prevention of proliferation signals The results prompted lead author Chengke Zhang of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at The Second Hospital of Shandong University to conclude, “Curcumin may be potent enough to be developed as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma.” A number of previous studies have also suggested that curcumin has merit as an alternative therapy for mesothelioma. A study conducted last year at the University of Rome found that mice infected with peritoneal mesothelioma lived longer when they were given curcumin. A few months later, French researchers used curcumin to shrink sarcomatoid tumors in lab rats. In 2015, researchers in Australia conducted the first experiments of curcumin on human mesothelioma cells and concluded that the compound could be a helpful supplement to standard treatment for certain mesothelioma patients. In another 2015 study, Italian researchers found that curcumin was even more effective against mesothelioma when delivered into cells via nanoparticles which overcame cells’ natural resistance to the compound. Curcumin is of particular interest to mesothelioma researchers because there are so few viable treatment options for this deadly cancer.


Curcumin Helping To Prevent Fluoride Induced Damage In The Brain
Worldhealth.net, October 2018
Adding supplementation of curcumin significantly reduced toxic effects of fluoride to close to normal levels by augmenting antioxidant defense via its scavenging properties, and provided evidence of having therapeutic roles against oxidative stress mediated neurodegeneration. This is not the only study to demonstrate the remarkable brain saving properties curcumin possesses; there are over 200 peer reviewed published studies indicating curcumin is a neuroprotective agent. When one takes into consideration the many chemical insults faced on a daily basis in the post industrial world, turmeric/curcumin may very well be one of the world’s most important herbs, which has over 800 evidence based health applications.


Curcumin, Commonly Found In Indian Food, Improves Memory, Mood, Attention
Studyfinds.com  September 2018
Those who took the curcumin performed better on the cognitive tests, showing better memory recall and attention spans compared to those who took the placebo. In fact, individuals in the curcumin group showed an average of 28 percent improvement on the memory test at 18 months. Thirty participants also agreed to undergo brain scans to test for levels of amyloid and tau — which are key markers for Alzheimer’s disease — at the beginning of the study and at the follow-up period. After 18 months, those who took curcumin showed much lower levels of the two proteins than those in the placebo group.


This Spice Can Protect Your Liver
Belmarra Health, September 2018
The latest research findings uncovered that curcumin may have the potential to protect the liver from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and may even be a form of treatment. In rat studies, researchers uncovered that curcumin reduced hepatocellular inflammation along with providing other benefits.


Role of Curcumin and Gallic acid as antioxidants
PLOS One, September 2018
Curcumin and/or Gallic acid alleviated the adverse effects caused by tramadol. In addition, patients should be advice to take Curcumin and/or Gallic acid prior to tramadol treatment to alleviate the hepatic and renal toxicities caused by tramadol.


Enhanced anticancer effects of low-dose curcumin with non-invasive pulsed electric field on PANC-1 cells
Dovepress, September 2018
A non-contact approach using low intensity electric field in a pulsed waveform could enhance the anticancer effect of low-dose curcumin on PANC-1 cells through triggering both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. The findings highlight the potential of this alternative treatment, non-invasive electric field and curcumin, to increase therapeutic efficacy with minimum cytotoxicity and side effects, which may provide a new aspect of cancer treatment in combination of PEF and other anticancer agents.


Chemoprevention of inflammation-related colorectal cancer by curcumin- and maltodextrin-enriched dietetic formulation in animal model
Carcinogenesis, September 2018
Seventy were treated with azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium and divided into two groups: 35 received standard diet and 35 enriched formulation (curcumin, boswellic acids, silymarin and maltodextrins). Our results are promising for a successful anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive effect of enriched formulation in CRC arising from inflamed tissue.


Benefits of the Golden Spice Herb: Turmeric
SD Entertainer, August 2018
Turmeric, used in traditional Chinese medicine, can also be an aid in the stagnation of blood or even epilepsy, due to its ability to lower blood pressure. These properties are aided by healing compounds curcuminoids, or Curcumin which is the active substance in turmeric. In the article Curcumin: A Review of It’s Effects on Human Health, Susan Hewlings and Douglas Kalman write, “Curcumin has been shown to improve systemic markers of oxidative stress. There is evidence that it can increase serum activities of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase.” The possibilities are endless and this little spice that can help your body heal as well as be a special tool that can transform your overall health, allowing you to explore the options of natural remedies when it comes to your well-being.

This popular spice may prevent diabetes
Bobr Times, August 2018
Curcumin as antioxidant component of the plant has properties to normalize insulin production, thus preventing type II diabetes. According to them the action of curcumin is associated with the reduction of fat content in tissues – mice this effect was observed even though high-calorie foods. Preliminary research has also demonstrated anti-cancer properties of curcumin. Experts from Saint Louis University in Missouri it was found that part of the substance turmeric curcumin and silymarin do not allow cancer cells to divide and thus can help in the treatment and prevention of colon cancer.

Priyanka Chopra is Obsessed With Turmeric Because, Well, Who Isn’t?
Organic Authority, August 2018
Rich in bioflavonoids, beta-carotene, and vitamins C and A, as well as a host of other nutrients, its main claim to fame is the active compound curcumin, which may be responsible for many of the spices noted health benefits, including anticarcinogenic properties. A new study seemed to reaffirm the turmeric’s reputation as an anti-cancer fighter, in addition to being beneficial in the prevention of chronic disease and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, IBD and asthma.

Protect Against 'Evolving Stroke'
NewsMax, August 2018
One type of stroke event is “evolving stroke.” In these cases, the neurological damage — weakness, speech impairment — gradually gets worse after the first few days. When this happens, the penumbra neurons, instead of returning to normal, start dying off and expanding the damage. This can occur for a number of reasons, but most often it is because of a burst of free radicals when the blood supply is re-established. We call this reperfusion injury. This happens because of the high oxygen content of the returning blood flooding the penumbra region, which generates high levels of new free radicals. Numerous studies have shown that such things as magnesium, curcumin, quercetin, baicalein, hesperidin, resveratrol, naringenin, DHA, vitamin E, vitamin C, and anthocyanadins can prevent this damage and protect the brain during a stroke. Not only do these compounds suppress free radicals and lipid peroxidation, they are also powerful inhibitors of microglial activation and immunoexcitotoxicity.

Adaptogens That Will Improve Your Brain Function
Care2, August 2018
If you haven’t heard, turmeric contains a compound known as curcumin, which acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory in the body. What’s more, curcumin also has neuron stimulating, healing, and protective properties, which is why it is being researched as a potential healer for those who have suffered from Alzheimer’s or a stroke. Other research has shown that curcumin may possess powerful antidepressant properties, potentially making it a natural, side effect-free option for those suffering from mild and moderate depression. Pretty much, if you have an inflammatory condition, curcumin is on the case.

Curcumin supplementation regulates lipid metabolism in broiler chickens
Academic, August 2018
Curcumin plays an important role in reduction abdominal fat deposition by decreasing the hepatic and plasma lipid profile and affecting the expression levels of genes related to lipogenesis and lipolysis including ACC, FAS, SREBP-1c, ACLY, PPARα, and CPT-I.

X-ray Crystallography Reveals How Curcumin Inhibits Cancer
WorldHealth.net August 2018
X-ray crystallography and kinase-inhibitor specificity profiling has revealed that curcumin binds to the kinase enzyme dual specificity tyrosine regulated kinase at the atomic level, an interaction that impairs cell proliferation and reduces cancer burden, as published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers from the University of California in collaboration with Peking University and Zhejiang University discovered the previously unreported co-crystal structure of curcumin to bind to protein kinase target biochemical interaction of the naturally occurring turmeric compound binding to and inhibiting DYRK2 leading to impediment of proteasome; who also note that curcurmin alone may not be the answer as it is expelled from the body quickly, to be an effective drug it needs to be modified to enter the bloodstream and stay long enough to target cancer. Kinases IKK and GSK3 enzymes were thought to be curcumin targets leading to anticancer effects, but the co-crystal structure of curcumin with DYRK2 along with an 140 panel kinase inhibitor profiling has revealed curcumin binds strongly to active sites of DYRK2 inhibiting it 500 times more potently than GSK3 or IKK, showing anticancer potential for chemo-sensitive and proteasome inhibitor resistant and adapted cancers.

Curcumin: More Powerful Than Drugs
NewsMax, August 2018
Curcumin, an organic compound extracted from the spice turmeric, is a flavonoid. It is the curcumin that gives the spice its bright yellow color. Turmeric, a relative of ginger, is in the family of plants called Zingiberaceae. The spice turmeric contains a number of beneficial compounds, but the most important are the curcuminoids: curcumin, demethyoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. • Antimalarial • Antibacterial • Antiviral • Antioxidant • Antiseptic •Anticancer It is also neuroprotective, lowers cholesterol, and reduces hardening of the arteries. Studies have shown that this increases curcumin absorption by 11 times in plasma (the liquid component of blood in which cells are suspended) and fourfold in the brain. Mixing with oil also allows concentrations of curcumin to become high enough in the brain to provide protection against inflammation. Human studies have shown that even in very high doses (as much as 10,000 mg per day), curcumin has little toxicity. It is very safe and can even be given intravenously.

Curry powder slows cancer growth
New Telegraph, August 2018
Scientists from the University of California said a chemical in curry powder could fight cancer. The scientists have suggested that curcumin, the chemical in turmeric, could slow the growth of tumours in breast and blood cancers. Curcumin is a bright yellow chemical produced by some plants. It is the principal curcuminoid of turmeric, a member of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It is sold as an herbal supplement, cosmetics ingredient, food flavouring, and food colouring. It does this by making cancer cells less able to break down or destroy other cells. Curcumin could be used to fight cancer because when in the blood stream, it binds to a specific type of enzyme called DYRK2 and, when the two are connected, cells cannot reproduce as quickly. Co-author, Jack Dixon, said curcumin may offer new opportunities for hard-to-treat triple-negative breast cancer and multiple myeloma treatment.

Evidence-based complementary treatment of pancreatic cancer: a review of adjunct therapies including curcumin
Cancer Management and Research, August 2018
Curcumin is the most studied of the nutraceuticals that are considered anticancer agents found in natural plants. Curcumin, from the plant Curcuma longa and a component of turmeric, has exhibited multiple anticancer effects in numerous studies in pancreatic cell lines and mice studies.95114 When used in combination, curcumin has also been shown to potentiate the effects of other cytotoxic agents, including gemcitabine, cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and 5-fluorouracil, in preclinical models of a variety of cancers.96,105 Most importantly, it seems to prevent chemoresistance especially to gemcitabine.102,104109  A low incidence of cancer has been documented in countries that incorporate high consumption of turmeric root, of which curcumin is believed to be the active ingredient.110,111 After testing >1,000 different potential agents for cancer prevention, the National Cancer Institute has chosen only 40, of which curcumin was included, to be moved to clinical trials.112 In several mice studies, curcumin has been shown to prevent cancer including mammary adenocarcinoma, esophageal cancer, and familial adenomatous polyposis.113115Curcumin has demonstrated a plethora of functions affecting various cell signaling pathways at multiple levels, as shown in Figure 3. Studies have identified numerous factors inhibited by curcumin related to cancer cell survival, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis, suppression of apoptosis, and chemoresistance. Curcumin has been shown to inhibit a variety of factors including STAT3,100 COX-2,117 survivin,100 miR-200, and miR-21,111 the hedgehog pathway,118 and IAP proteins.119 Additionally, it has been demonstrated to activate the cell cycle inhibitors, p27 and p27,94 and upregulate the p53 modulator of apoptosis.112 Curcumin has been shown to inhibit pancreatic tumor growth and angiogenesis in mouse models.120 Curcumin’s most important effect seems to stem from inhibition of the transcription factor NF-κB and all its downstream products.96,97,110,117,118 Many lines of evidence suggest that NF-κB plays a major role in growth, proliferation, angiogenesis, and most importantly, chemoresistance.104106,117,121 Becoming resistant to chemotherapy is the main cause of death in most pancreatic patients. Curcumin seems to block this resistance.122 For example, one study showed that resistance to gemcitabine is induced by NF-κB activity and that curcumin inhibits this process.107 A recent study demonstrated curcumin restores sensitivity in gemcitabine-resistant cancer cells and confirmed this finding in a xenograft mouse model.108

Curcumin suppresses the progression of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
OncoTargets and Therapy, July 2018
Curcumin is a polyphenol extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa with extensive biological and pharmacological effects. Curcumin administration upregulated miR-145 expression in LSCC cells in a dose-dependent manner. miR-145 overexpression and curcumin treatment both markedly suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in LSCC cells. Moreover, curcumin treatment reversed the enhanced effects on cell viability, migration and invasion and the inhibitory effects on apoptosis conferred by anti-miR-145 in LSCC cells. Curcumin treatment dramatically aggravated miR-145-induced inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and reversed anti-miR-145-mediated activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in LSCC cells. Conclusion: Curcumin suppressed LSCC progression through the upregulation of miR-145 and inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.

Conditions Curcumin Helps Fight
Care2, July 2018
Obesity: If you’re having trouble losing weight you might want to consider adding more turmeric to your diet and supplementing with curcumin. That’s because research in the journal Biofactors found that the spice alleviated the inflammation isolated as a cause in overweight and obesity. It not only helped with obesity, it helped to protect against some of the health-damaging effects of obesity. Ideally choose a standardized extract of curcumin.
Memory Boosting: Research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology showed that within only one hour after taking a supplement containing one of turmeric’s active ingredients, curcumin, study participants had a significant improvement in memory and attention tasks compared to the placebo group.
Alzheimer’s Protection: Research shows that the curcumin may even help to protect the brain against the plaque-formation found in Alzheimer’s disease. It seems to work by preventing the formation of beta amyloid plaques—which are key factors in Alzheimer’s disease. Even Alzheimer’s patients who exhibited severe symptoms, including: dementia, irritability, agitation, anxiety and apathy, had excellent therapeutic results when taking curcumin, according to another study published in the Japanese medical journal known as Ayu.
Colon Cancer Prevention and Treatment: Curcumin not only shows benefits for prostate cancer, it has been found in multiple studies to reduce colon cancer risk. In one study published in Cancer Prevention Research researchers found that curcumin suppressed the ability of colon cancer cells to proliferate, suggesting it may be beneficial in preventing and treating the disease.
Tendonitis: A root similar to gingerroot, turmeric contains a potent compound that, not only gives it its signature yellow color, but also its anti-inflammatory properties. In a study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry researchers found that curcumin improved the healing of tendonitis, which involves inflammation of the tendons that help maintain our structural integrity.
Urinary Tract Infections: Recent research in the Journal of International Molecular Sciences found that curcumin helps to prevent kidney stones from forming in the urinary tract. It appears to prevent them from crystallizing in the first place.

Curcumin increases glutathione production
Inside Tucson, July 2018
The UA College of Nursing recently received a 1.6 million dollar grant to research the potential of curcumin at combatting the acute lung injury. This five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health allows researchers to study whether the non-pharmacological supplement curcumin can be used as medicine against the disease. Alcohol abuse depletes cells’ glutathione, an important antioxidant in the lung. Research shows when glutathione combines with oxygen, it can result in fatal respiratory failure. Curcumin, naturally found in turmeric, has proven effective as a non-pharmacological treatment for a variety of inflammatory diseases, and increases glutathione production.

Anti-Cancer Mechanism of Curcumin Outlined
MedicalResearch.com July 2018
Curcumin is good for cancer prevention since it blocks inflammation and tumor cell metabolism. These two activities are likely to prevent cancer or at least to delay its development. Consider that delaying cancer development means years of healthy life while cancer therapy means life with cancer, which is not the same. We are working with pure curcumin, no derivates, no additives with commercial interest.

University of Arizona Awarded Grant To Research Healing Powers Of Curcumin
KJZZ, July 2018
The University of Arizona College of Nursing was awarded a $1.6 million grant to research the healing potential of the substance curcumin for acute lung injury. Acute respiratory distress syndrome can be lethal and is expensive to treat. Researcher Dr. Charles Downs said he hopes the study will lead to the development of a cure. “It looks like it may hold some promise in this area primarily because of its antioxidants and beneficial effects,” said Downs. Curcumin is a compound found in the spice turmeric and has been used to reduce inflammation.

What exactly is curcumin and what is it good for?
Mind Body Green,  July 2018
Turmeric is a rhizome (underground root stem) of the leafy Curcuma longa plant. Also known as Indian saffron, turmeric has been a must-have ingredient in Indian cooking and medicine for thousands of years. Curcumin, the powerful medicinal compound that gives turmeric its health benefits, is best consumed in food, with fat and pepper.

Curcumin can shrink tumors
San Diego Tribune, July 2018
In one clinical study on pancreatic cancer, two patients out of 25 had good responses to large, daily doses of curcumin. Those two experienced tumor shrinkage for three years. “That doesn’t sound like a lot but most drugs won’t work very well for pancreatic cancer.” Curcumin turns off something called NF-kappa B that increases the production of several types of proteins that promote tumor growth. Second, it promotes apoptosis, which is the programmed death of cells in our bodies. Apopstosis is halted in cancer cells, allowing them to flourish. Curcumin reinvigorates that programmed cell death.

Can curcumin really help with arthritis, inflammation and headaches?
WKTR, July 2018
"Turmeric contains the chemical curcumin, found safe in six human trials," explained Dr. Light. "Curcumin, when studied, demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity inhibiting different parts of the inflammatory system. Turmeric can be used as an anti-inflammatory and may lessen the symptoms of arthritis and headache caused by inflammation."

UA receives $1.6m grant to examine the healing potential of curcumin for acute lung injury
Eureka Alert, July 2018
Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has proven effective as a nonpharmacological treatment for a variety of inflammatory diseases, and an increase of GSH synthesis. Looking to evaluate curcumin's effectiveness in facilitating the normal production of GSH, University of Arizona College of Nursing Assistant Professor Charles Downs, PhD, ACNP-BC, FAAN, has received a five-year $1.6M RO1 grant from the National Institutes of Health. Using a carefully designed murine model in his study, "Using Proteomics to Develop Personalized Health Strategies to Prevent Lung Injury in Model Systems," Dr. Downs hopes to demonstrate that curcumin reverses impaired protein function to restore lung fluid balance. Acute respiratory distress syndrome occurs in response to inflammatory stresses such as pneumonia and is characterized by profound inflammation and a build-up of excess fluid in the lungs that culminates in respiratory failure. Although researchers are aware of the physiological disorders associated with the syndrome, current therapies are supportive rather than curative, Dr. Downs said.

Value Your Memory? These Nutrients Will Keep It Strong
ZME Science, June 2018
Curcumin, the compound that makes turmeric bright yellow, has been in the news a lot lately because of its health benefits, and many of those benefits center on the brain. In particular, curcumin can reduce brain inflammation and increase the availability of the antioxidant glutathione. Brain inflammation is a leading cause of neurological damage and degeneration, so find a way to work it into your diet, whether in curry, golden milk, or as a stand-alone supplement. If you are going to take curcumin as a supplement, consider mixing it with coconut oil, olive oil, or even that brain health booster fish oil for improved absorption.


Muscle Atrophy Cures Found At The Supermarket
The Eagle, June 2018
Our lab has shown a causal role that reactive oxygen species (ROS) play in starting and maintaining this atrophy process. ROS are generated through metabolic and chemical reactions in the body and are normally referred to as free radicals in the general population. Disuse results in a spike of ROS and this causes movement of an enzyme nNOS (neuronal nitric oxide synthase) from the cell membrane to the interior of the cell. This movement of a molecule that normally resides at the cell membrane sets off a cascade of intracellular events that lead to the breakdown of the muscle cell. Our interventions of fish oil and curcumin aim at scavenging these excess ROS. By dealing with the high levels of ROS we can mitigate the cellular processes that lead to muscle breakdown and preserve muscle mass. It’s also important to note that these two interventions have been shown to diminish muscle atrophy when used alone and our lab wanted to see if combining both treatments would result in a more profound “rescue effect.” This intervention experiment is also important because many drugs created to combat muscle atrophy are quite expensive and often times have negative side effects. Fish oil and curcumin are not toxic and are easily available to any average person shopping at the local Wal-Mart.


Curcumin Health Benefits
SimpleMost.com June 2018
One of the star ingredients here is turmeric, and specifically the curcumin present in the golden spice. A 2013 study showed that curcumin has therapeutic properties for human diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. Curcumin also offers a number of other health benefits, including increased antioxidant capacity of the body and the ability to neutralize free radicals. It’s also said to improve brain function, lower the risk of heart disease and help those suffering from arthritis by reducing inflammation.


Plants That Help Your Brain and Memory
Care2, June 2018
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been linked to a wide variety of health benefits. One study found that participants had significantly improved memory and attention within one hour after taking a curcumin supplement. Four weeks on the supplement enhanced their working memory, energy levels and calmness as well as lowered their stress levels.


Turmeric – What is That?
Kiowa County Press, June 2018
Curcumin is what gives turmeric its yellow-orange coloring. Curcumin is the active ingredient found in turmeric. It has been said that it may be a contributor to helping break down fat cells in your body; and, because of its natural anti-inflammatory agents, turmeric may help reduce joint and muscle pain. Other positive effects of curcumin include aiding in digestion, lower cholesterol, relief of arthritis and cystic fibrosis symptoms, prevention of some cancers, and lower blood pressure.


Reduce your risk of getting cancer
NZ Herald, May 2018
Healthista's nutrition director, Rick Hay, has shared what foods are best for a cancer awareness diet and 10 tips to help boost your health. "Top of my herb and spice list is turmeric," says Hay. "The active ingredient is curcumin which is a key anti-inflammatory agent." Curcumin can stop cancer cells and tumours from growing, especially in regards to breast, bowel and skin cancer cells. Black pepper is also beneficial in helping the body to absorb curcumin.


Anti-inflammatory Turmeric Protects Against Diabetes
ReliaWire.com May 2018
Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric, which has proven anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. This naturally sourced and bioactive compound is easy to produce, has no side effects and can help to reduce inflammation in an array of inflammatory diseases; including obesity and diabetes. Scientists from Shandong University in Jinan, China found that curcumin improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in mice that were fed a high fat diet; and that blocking activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome was key to preventing high fat diet-induced insulin resistance.


Top 3 Signs of Ageing: Why This Spice Could Be You Best Anti-Ageing Companion
NDTV May 2018
Curcumin In Turmeric May Boost Memory and Uplift Mood too, claimed a recent study. The study, published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, examined 40 adults between the ages of 50 and 90 years who had mild memory complaints.For the study, they were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or 90 milligrammes of curcumin twice daily for 18 months. People taking curcumin improved by 28 per cent over the 18 months in their memory tests. There were mild improvements in mood for people taking curcumin. According to the researchers, taking this relatively safe form of curcumin could provide meaningful cognitive benefits over the years. One of the bets way to include Haldi in your diet is through Haldi doodh. According to Ayurveda expert Ashutosh Gautam, "It is because curcumin has the ability to get absorbed in the fat and tissues of our body and that is how it benefits the body. Milk becomes a smooth medium through which curcumin travels better and speedier to those fats and tissues facilitating its better absorption".


Why Turmeric Is the Golden Spice That'll Make Your Health Nice
PopSugar, May 2018
The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is great at decreasing exercise-related muscle soreness due to its antioxidant properties. It also helps boost muscle recovery so you can get back to the gym right away. If your gut is easily irritated by certain foods, adding turmeric to your dish or having it as a shot before will help a lot with any bloat. Curcumin works by inhibiting enzymes that increase inflammation in the body.


Healthy Living: Turmeric, more than a spice
News Tribune, May 2018
Several studies on the effects of turmeric's active compound curcumin found reduced inflammation in people with osteoarthritis of the knee. Both pain and C-reactive protein levels were lowered. Testing showed collagen breakdown and overall disease activity was reduced. Additionally, research on rheumatoid arthritis found some patients found the anti-inflammatory properties as beneficial as cortisone. How? Turmeric inhibits the breakdown of arachidonic acid. Turmeric's combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects explains why many people with joint disease find relief when they use the spice regularly. Turmeric can offer help with several digestive issues. The University of Maryland Medical Center reported the curcumin in turmeric stimulates the gallbladder to produce more bile. This may help improve gas, bloating, nausea, appetite loss, belching and stomach discomfort. The curcumin may also be beneficial in inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. However, turmeric should not be used with stomach ulcers, as it may increase stomach acid in some people. Turmeric also has been shown to lower blood sugar and LDL cholesterol. It also keeps platelets from clumping together, meaning it might stop blood clots from forming on your artery walls. Because of this people currently using blood-thinning drugs should be aware the effect might be intensified with turmeric. Interactions of curcumin within the body improve insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and other inflammatory symptoms associated with obesity and metabolic disorders. In addition, studies show curcumin seems to delay liver damage that can eventually lead to cirrhosis. Clinical studies have shown frequent use of turmeric to lower rates of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer.


Herbs that can give your weight loss plan a boost
Times of India, May 2018
According to a 2009 study by Tufts University, turmeric can help your body burn fat. In the study, there were two groups of mice, one was fed curcumin while the other wasn’t. The results were that the group of mice that had curcumin lost more weight than the other group that did not have it. Turmeric is a warming spice, it increases the body heat which can boost your metabolism and provide other health benefits.


Healthy haldi
Times of India, May 2018
Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective immunity booster, mitigating incidences of infection, disease. Curcumin helps block the conditions that lead to cardiovascular damage, which helps manage blood pressure and reduces the formation of clots. More and more studies are making linkages between haldi and its positive effect on anxiety. Curcumin seems to boost serotonin – the happy hormone, while lowering cortisol – the stress hormone. It is the curcumin in turmeric that gives it its antioxidant properties. Oxidative damage (the chemical reactions that oxygen performs inside our bodies) leads to the development and proliferation of free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules. Free radicals have the potential to damage organs and also create a crazy, disease-prone, inflamed environment inside our body. Antioxidants help flush out free radicals and also work as a brilliant anti-inflammatory.


5 Foods for Joint Pain Relief
NewsMax, May 2018
The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has been shown to suppress the action of a number of chemical signals in the body, such as tumor necrosis factor, that attack joints. Curcumin also blocks other inflammatory signals, including those in the pro-inflammatory COX-2 pathway. A study presented in the journal, Experimental Neurology (2016), revealed that curcumin counteracted the outcome of traumatic brain injury by decreasing oxidative stress, and increasing synaptic simplicity and cognition. Turmeric also stimulates a key antioxidant pathway called Nrf2.

A healthy heart diet
MVariety.com May 2018
“A study of about 121 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass disease showed a positive response to turmeric. There was a 65 percent decreased heart attack rate for patients who were given a dose every day.” Forsyth said curcumin, a substance in turmeric, has a positive effect on your endothelium, which is the lining of your blood vessels. Endothelium is responsible for regulating blood clots, blood pressure, and all other factors that lead to many heart diseases. Researchers at the University of Toronto found that curcumin blocks a wide range of biochemical reactions involved in cardiac hypertrophy (enlargement of the heart chambers), inflammation, and fibrosis.

Feed your brain well
Times of India, May 2018
 Curcumin: It is the active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin has been shown to boost BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), which helps lower the risk of brain diseases. Curcumin works best when heated with food. It is known to add to brain clarity and reduce mind fogginess.

To stay healthy, include natural spices in your diet
Daily Nation, May 2018
der. Curcumin is a chemical compound found in turmeric, this compound is responsible for the anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antioxidant properties of turmeric. In isolation, absorption of curcumin in blood stream is low, however, the absorption can be enhanced by piperine found in black pepper. As an anti-inflammatory agent, curcumin attacks the inflammatory pathway, on this pathway, it blocks the NF-kB molecule from accessing the cell nuclei. It is in the nuclei where the NF-Kb molecule triggers the gene associated inflammation, which causes chronic diseases. Curcumin has a chemical structure that has the ability to inhibit the three major enzymes (lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase) that promote inflammatory process. Other disorders whose risks can be reduced by curcumin include heart and brain diseases, osteoarthritis, depression, eye swelling, skin cancer and age-related ailments.

Here's how Turmeric can help you lose weight
E Times, May 2018
The primary antioxidant present in turmeric is curcumin. Turmeric is said to help one deal with stomach issues, metabolic disorders, obesity and many more problems. Though having huge quantities of turmeric is surely not a way to lose weight, but turmeric is said to reduce the inflammation associated with obesity. Thus, it can give your weight loss plan a boost.  Obesity leads to inflammation, which increases your risk of developing chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. Curcumin, which is an antioxidant, suppresses the inflammatory messaging in fat, pancreatic and muscle cells. This can help reduce high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar and other metabolic conditions, says a study published in European Journal of Nutrition.

Turmeric use linked to weight loss
Citizen Digital, May 2018
Curcumin, an active ingredient in Turmeric, has a strong anti-oxidant property. This article highlights the various benefits of using the spice: prevents heart diseases improves immunity aids in weight loss and metabolism prevents neurological diseases promotes brain health prevents cancer offers excellent anti-oxidant properties delays aging can be used as a natural painkiller treats skin pigmentation prevents hair loss helps treat dandruff cures stretch marks soothes burns heals cracked feet aids in exfoliation aids in diabetes treatment works as a natural antiseptic detoxifies the liver reduces menstrual pain treats digestive disorders.

Want to fight your everyday blues? These kitchen ingredients may be the perfect solution for you
TimesNowNews, April 2018
Turmeric is a widely used spice in Indian households. Apart from its anti-inflammatory nature, the spice also brings a distinct flavour and aroma to your meal which has mood-lifting properties. There is a compound called curcumin that has been linked to improving mood, according to a study conducted by UCLA. “Exactly how curcumin exerts its effects is not certain, but it may be due to its ability to reduce brain inflammation, which has been linked to both Alzheimer’s disease and major depression,” said Dr Gary Small, director of geriatric psychiatry at UCLA’s Longevity Center and of the geriatric psychiatry division.

Curcumin and a good book
News Miner, April  2018
Cumin and curcumin, which is found in turmeric, are both important ingredients in cuisines from North Africa to India, and both possess powerful medicinal qualities. Research at UCLA has shown curcumin has “improved memory and mood in people with mild, age-related memory loss.” Already known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, eating lots of curcumin-rich turmeric “has been suggested as a possible reason that senior citizens in India, where curcumin is a dietary staple, have a lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and better cognitive performance.”

Is turmeric really a 'wonder drug' for migraines?
Daily Mail, April 2018
Good brands for curcumin will give you the milligram dosage of curcumin specifically listed on the bottle which is why she recommends people buy curcumin supplements as opposed to turmeric. Although more research is needed to prove curcumin's effectiveness, Dr Green said that in addition to other prescriptions, she prescribes it to her patients to treat migraines. She said it does make her patients feel better. She said she uses it as a preventive measure for patients who experience 14 migraines or less per month. 'Prevention then becomes imperative for many of these patients, and while there are a slew of prescription medications we can use for prevention, increasingly people are looking for alternatives,' Dr Green said. Rissetto said other health benefits associated with curcumin includes, a boost in brain function and a lower risk of developing brain diseases like Alzheimer's disease. A 2008 study published in the Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology found that curcumin decreased Beta-amyloid plaques, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer's. She said it has also been linked to improved heart function.

Spice is able to prevent dementia
Siv Times, April 2018
Curcumin is a component of well-known condiments, recently conducted a lot of research about its positive and negative effects on health, reports the Chronicle.info with reference to ladyhealth.com.ua. Scientists from Israel have also contributed, showing that curcumin helps to maintain brain health and reduces the risk of development of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Scientists from an Israeli hospital Hadassah has tested the potential of dietary supplements to strengthen the intestinal cells to prevent uncontrolled leakage of intestinal contents into the bloodstream. In combination with phospholipids, curcumin showed anti-inflammatory properties, ability to reduce the intervals between the cells and make the intestines less permeable. The disadvantage of curcumin is rapid decomposition and removal within two hours. However, its positive effect lasts for 72 hours even after complete removal.

Key curry ingredient could have amazing health benefits – and improve memory
Mirror, April 2018
Curcumin has been analysed in a study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Scientists at the University of California in Los Angeles examined the effects of the ingredient on people with mild and age-related memory loss. "Exactly how curcumin exerts its effects is not certain, but it may be due to its ability to reduce brain inflammation, which has been linked to both Alzheimer's disease and major depression," said Dr. Gary Small, study author and the director of geriatric psychiatry at UCLA's Longevity Center. In total, 40 participants aged between 50 and 90-years-old, each with mild memory loss and/or complaints, were brought in. Half were assigned 90 milligrams of curcumin twice daily for 18 months; the rest were given a placebo. Researchers found that those who took curcumin saw improvement in both memory and mood. The substance levels in their blood was monitored, while cognitive assessments and PET scans were undertaken too. The study says that memory tests show people taking curcumin improved by as much as 28 per cent over the timeframe. Their overall disposition also improved, according to scientists. The university plans to continue its research and conduct a second study with a greater number of participants. Also to be explored is whether curcumin works better in certain ages, its impact on those with a genetic risk of dementia, and if it can be used to treat people with depression. Dr Small said: "These results suggest that taking this relatively safe form of curcumin could provide meaningful cognitive benefits over the years."

Fighting for those who fought
The Batt, April 2018
The study, funded by the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) and the Department of Defense, focused on a curcumin, a component of turmeric. Turmeric is a spice found in curry and has many health benefits that could help with the disease long term. The spice has been used in animal models and has shown signs of reversing GWI. “We were very pleased in our tests that curcumin showed better signs of reactions among animals than the true control group,” Shetty said. “That can lead us to believe there is good ahead in or long road of discoveries and studies.”

Can Turmeric Bring the Fight to Mesothelioma?
Asbestos.com April 2018
There are two aspects to the 2017 turmeric and mesothelioma experiment. In both parts, the researchers focused on curcumin, a substance found in abundance in turmeric. First, they studied how curcumin curbs cell growth in mesothelioma cancer. The researchers found the spice component thwarted mesothelioma. Next, researchers examined how curcumin protected mice against mesothelioma tumor development. Compared with the mice who received plain corn oil, the mice who received the intraperitoneal curcumin and corn oil mixture: Experienced reduced risk of developing tumors overall, Developed fewer tumors, Had much smaller tumors, Lived significantly longer.

Add turmeric to your diet to improve your well-being
The Gauntlet, April 2018
Kris Gunnars of the health-care blog Authority Nutrition says that turmeric is rich in a powerful anti-inflammatory called curcumin. Gunnars says that curcumin is equally as effective at fighting inflammation as pharmaceuticals — but without the nasty headaches and stomach pain that they typically cause.

Why Turmeric Is Good For High Blood Pressure
NDTV, April 2018
Turmeric is popular for its antioxidant curcumin which helps in lowering blood pressure. Its antioxidant properties are the responsible for regulating blood pressure in the body. Curcumin also protects against vascular dysfunction in the body. Having high blood pressure in this case, causes further damage to tissues in arteries. LDL (or bad) cholesterol begins to deposit in arteries in the form of plaque in the walls of arteries. Curcumin in turmeric can help in preventing further damage caused to arteries because of high blood pressure. The anti-inflammatory property of turmeric is another reason which contributes to the popularity of the spice. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties which help in keeping hypertension at bay. Inflammation in the body is risky because it can contribute to stiffness in heart's arteries - which in turn may raise blood pressure. Consuming turmeric regularly can help in keeping blood pressure under control.

Focus on Fitness: Boosting memory and avoiding obesity
Plant City Observer, April 2018
Scientists at UCLA worked with 40 volunteers, age 50 through 90, who all had memory loss complaints. Their study, published in January in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, found using curcumin twice a day for 18 months improved memory and mood tests, as well as brain scans. Curcumin is the active ingredient in the Indian spice turmeric. Besides cooking applications, turmeric has been used by ancient cultures for brain health for many centuries. Turmeric gives Indian curry its color and flavor. Manufacturers often use turmeric to color cheese, butter and prepared mustard. Known as a powerful antioxidant, curcumin scavenges free radicals in the human body to stop cell membrane damage. Curcumin lowers inflammation by reducing the enzymes that cause it. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine systems also use turmeric to treat digestive and liver conditions as well as wounds and skin diseases. If you decide to take curcumin vitamin capsules, select a quality product from a reputable manufacturer.

Arthritis symptoms, spice could prevent joint pain
Express, April 2018
One compound within the spice - curcumin - has pain-relieving characteristics that may help to relieve arthritis suffering. Curcumin is also one of the most effective anti-inflammatory compounds in the world, researchers said. The compound may even be beneficial for Alzheimer’s disease patients. Turmeric is a yellow powder that works an an anti-inflammatory, scientists have claimed. One compound within the spice - curcumin - has pain-relieving characteristics that may help to relieve arthritis suffering. Curcumin is also one of the most effective anti-inflammatory compounds in the world, researchers said. “While arthritis cannot be cured, it seems that a high dose of curcumin can be just as [or more] effective than at least the most common medication prescribed for the condition. “Turmeric comes from India and other Southeast Asian countries. The dried root of the Curcuma longa plant is ground into the distinctive yellow turmeric powder. “The best part about turmeric? Not only is it well-researched, incredibly potent and historically significant, it’s also safe.”

Curcumin Suppresses IL-1β Secretion and Prevents Inflammation
Journal of Immunology, April 2018
Turmeric is traditionally used as a spice and coloring in foods. Curcumin is the primary active ingredient in the turmeric, and compelling evidence has shown that it has the ability to inhibit inflammation. We report that curcumin inhibited caspase-1 activation and IL-1β secretion through suppressing LPS priming and the inflammasome activation pathway in mouse bone marrow–derived macrophages. The inhibitory effect of curcumin on inflammasome activation was specific to the NLRP3, not to the NLRC4 or the AIM2 inflammasomes. Curcumin inhibited the NLRP3 inflammasome by preventing K+ efflux and disturbing the downstream events, including the efficient spatial arrangement of mitochondria, ASC oligomerization, and speckle formation. Reactive oxygen species, autophagy, sirtuin-2, or acetylated α-tubulin was ruled out as the mechanism by which curcumin inhibits the inflammasome. Importantly, in vivo data show that curcumin attenuated IL-1β secretion and prevented high-fat diet–induced insulin resistance in wide-type C57BL/6 mice but not in Nlrp3-deficient mice. Curcumin also repressed monosodium urate crystal–induced peritoneal inflammation in vivo. Taken together, we identified curcumin as a common NLRP3 inflammasome activation inhibitor. Our findings reveal a mechanism through which curcumin represses inflammation and suggest the potential clinical use of curcumin in NLRP3-driven diseases.

Turmeric linked to avert the risk of cardiovascular diseases, the recent study claims
AskTelegraph.com March 2018
Benefits of curcumin: Curcumin has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-microbial, and antioxidant properties that help in blood clotting. It can act as a substitute for aspirin. Helps in treating of bone or joint disorders such as arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis at the faster rate. It also helps in fighting against skin infections and skin disorders. “Clinical trials reveal that consuming 4 grams of turmeric continuously for 4 days before surgery and 5 days’ post-surgery can reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and chances of by-pass surgery by 56 percent as compared to placebo”, discloses Natural Medicines Database. Since curcumin compound found in turmeric has antioxidant properties, it can help in the oxidation of vital body parts thus dropping the chances of deadly cancer. Additionally, consuming 1.4 grams of turmeric on daily basis can help to thwart low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol, triglyceride and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol in individuals.

How this spice can give you an added health boost
Belfast Telegraph, March 2018
Researchers have found that curcumin, the bright yellow chemical produced by turmeric, is capable of interacting with a variety of molecules involved in inflammation, easing swelling, aches and pains in the joints and muscles. In fact, a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that cucurmin may be just as effective as aspirin and ibuprofen at suppressing the body’s inflammatory response. As well as bolstering the body’s natural antioxidant function by increasing glutathione levels, studies found curcumin’s molecular structure can neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, lessening the chances of disease. Multiple studies have found that the yellow pigment in turmeric root can help to maintain the function of the interior lining of your blood vessels. One study published in the Nutrition Research journal in 2012 even found that curcumin may be as effective in improving vascular function in post-menopausal women as a moderate exercise routine.

Turmeric component may ease Gulf War illness for vets
Futurity March 2018
We found the individuals with GWI treated with curcumin for 30 days showed better cognitive function and mood than the control group did.” The improvements were more than just functional. “Curcumin treatment helped in alleviating the brain inflammation seen in GWI,” says first author Maheedhar Kodali, a postdoctoral fellow. “It also enhanced the expression of genes that encode for antioxidants and normalized the expression of genes related to the function of mitochondria in the hippocampus.” “Particularly, the ability of curcumin to reduce the occurrence of activated microglia, a sign of eased brain inflammation, is remarkable,” Shetty says. The compound also seemed to enhance the formation of new neurons in the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for learning, memory, and mood and the region where new neurons are added throughout life in normal individuals.

Could a spice be the key to helping Gulf War Illness vets?
KCEN TV, March 2018
"Curcumin has been known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neurogenic properties, so that's why we thought it's a good candidate for testing," Shetty said. Doctor Shetty said, based on their recent studies, the bright yellow chemical in the spice is shown to improve cognitive function, reduce brain inflammation and act as an antioxidant. He went on to say it helped create new neurons in the brain. There is not one specific treatment for Gulf War Illness at this time. "We tested the efficacy of circumin immediately after the exposure to Gulf War illness-related chemicals. And we found the animals can maintain better cognitive function and reduce depressor-like behavior," Shetty said. The scientist went as far to say curcumin may even have the potential to prevent Alzheimer's disease, according to recent studies.

Curcumin treatment leads to better cognitive and mood function in a model of Gulf War Illness with enhanced neurogenesis, and alleviation of inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction in the hippocampus
Science Direct, March 2018
This study showed that curcumin can mediate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neurogenic, and cognitive and mood enhancing effects in a condition such as GWI,” Shetty says. The findings correspond well with those of a separate study in humans from the University of California, Los Angeles, which recently showed curcumin improved the cognitive function of older adults by 28 percent. Curcumin maintains better cognitive and mood function in a model of Gulf War Illness. Curcumin alleviates neuroinflammation in a model of Gulf War Illness. Curcumin enhances hippocampal neurogenesis in a model of Gulf War Illness. Curcumin normalizes mitochondrial function in a model of Gulf War Illness. Curcumin enhances the expression of genes that encode antioxidant activity.

Eating Healthy And Natural May Keep Cancer At Bay
NDTV, March 2018
Curcumin, an active compound found in turmeric may help keep cancer at bay to a certain extent. Curcumin helps inhibit the growth of various cancer cells in most parts of the body. It is known to have anti-cancerous properties.

Natural supplements to stop lower back pain
Express, March 2018
Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow colour. It contains the anti-inflammatory compound curcumin, that could help to relieve a painful back. Try taking up to 1,000mg of turmeric supplements everyday to reduce pain. “Turmeric contains curcumin, which is the active ingredient that has powerful anti-inflammatory abilities, anti-aging effects and reduces pain.”

Eating Curry May Improve Memory and Happiness, New Study Says
Newsweek, March 2018
The study was also double-blind, which means neither the doctor nor patient knew whether they were taking a placebo or the curcumin supplement. The participants received cognitive tests at the beginning of the study every six months and blood tests that monitored their curcumin levels. Memory improved by 28 percent over the course of 18 months among participants taking curcumin. There were mild improvements in mood, too, and brain scans revealed fewer signs of amyloid and tau, which are two abnormal proteins that form clumps in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease.

The secret behind Julianne Hough's white teeth is common household spice turmeric
Business Insider, March 2018
Turmeric has a key component called curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory that clears bacteria. Turmeric itself has been around for a very long time. It’s the spice that gives curry its color and Indians have been using it as a cooking aid and medicinal herb for thousands of years. What makes it so beneficial to our bodies is its key component: curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory that repairs damage and clears away bacteria.


Curcumin prevents strokes in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats by improving vascular endothelial function
 BMC Cardiovascular Disorders, March 2018
Administration of curcumin significantly delayed the onset of stroke and increased the survival of SHRsp, which was ascribed to decreased ROS and improved endothelial dependent relaxation of carotid arteries. In the presence of UCP2 inhibitor genipin, both curcumin-mediated decrease of ROS and increase of NO production were blocked. Our study suggests that curcumin exerts a stroke preventive effect by attenuating oxidative stress to improve vascular endothelial function, which might be associated with UCP2 signaling.

Curcumin shows promise for treating Gulf War illness
Tamhsc.edu, March 2018
Turmeric, a spice commonly found in curry, has long been touted for its health benefits. Now, evidence in animal models suggests that one of its components, called curcumin, may be able to reverse some of the effects of Gulf War illness (GWI), according to recent research published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. This research was funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.

Reasons why turmeric is scientifically good for you
TV3, March 2018
Researchers have found that curcumin, the bright yellow chemical produced by turmeric, is capable of interacting with a variety of molecules involved in inflammation, easing swelling, aches and pains in the joints and muscles. In fact, a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that cucurmin may be just as effective as aspirin and ibuprofen at suppressing the body’s inflammatory response. As well as bolstering the body’s natural antioxidant function by increasing glutathione levels, studies have found curcumin’s molecular structure can even neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, lessening the chances of disease. One study published in the Nutrition Research journal in 2012 even found that curcumin may be as effective in improving vascular function in post-menopausal women as a moderate exercise routine. Research has shown that curcumin has a similar effect as antidepressants on patients suffering from depression, mood swings and anxiety, and studies on mice found that daily doses of turmeric can even increase the amount of happy hormones (serotonin and dopamine) in the brain.

Curcumin inhibits superoxide dismutase-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition via the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB pathway in pancreatic cancer cells
International Journal of Oncology, March 2018
Curcumin is a natural polyphenol compound derived from turmeric. It possesses multiple pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor progression properties. To summarize, these results demonstrated that curcumin was able to prevent SOD-driven H2O2-induced pancreatic cancer metastasis by blocking the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway. The use of curcumin to inhibit the H2O2/Akt/NF-κB axis may be a promising therapeutic approach to the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer.

Natural Ways to Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
Care2, March 2018
Research shows that the compound curcumin, found in the curry spice turmeric, not only protects the brain against memory loss, it may even help to protect it against Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin is the plant nutrient that gives turmeric its golden-yellow hue. It turns out this vibrant compound also holds tremendous promise against serious brain disease by preventing the formation of beta amyloid plaques, which are involved in Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s patients with severe symptoms, including dementia, irritability, agitation, anxiety and apathy, have shown excellent therapeutic results when taking curcumin, according to a study published in the Japanese medical journal Ayu.

Curry ingredient more effective than paracetamol at easing painful injuries
Guardian, March 2018
Turmeric is more effective than popular painkillers at easing the agony of sports injuries, new research suggests. After less than three weeks, taking a key component of the Indian staple spice, known as curcumin, eases injured rugby players’ discomfort just as much paracetamol or ibuprofen, but without their side effects, a study found. Those opting for medication over the curry ingredient are four times more likely to suffer gastro-related complications, the research adds. This study suggests the naturally-derived, curcumin-based product could represent a promising safe, analgesic remedy in painful osteo-muscular conditions associated with intense, high impact, physical activities.

Turmeric is more effective than paracetamol or ibuprofen at healing injuries
Deccan Chronicle, March 2018
A new study now suggests that turmeric is more effective than popular painkillers at easing the agony of sports injuries. The study found that after less than three weeks, taking a key component of the Indian staple spice, known as curcumin, eases injured rugby players' discomfort just as much paracetamol or ibuprofen, but without their side effects.. The researchers further believe that curcumin may also benefit sufferers of inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis patients, without causing the complications associated with many existing treatments. Results further reveal those taking curcumin are more likely to stick to their treatment regimen. The researchers analysed 50 rugby players from the Italian premier Piacenza club south of Milan who were suffering bone or muscle problems as a result of incidents, such as repeated tackling. Half of the study's participants were given the one gram curcumin-extract tablet Algocur, which is known as Turmeric+ in the UK, twice a day for up to 10 days. The remainder took painkillers. The findings were published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences journal. This comes after research released last month suggested turmeric may boost people's memories by nearly 30 per cent, as well as easing depression. Taking curcumin causes people to have significantly less protein build-up in the regions of the brain associated with memory and emotion, a study found. Past studies have also linked the onset of Alzheimer's disease to the accumulation of protein plaques in the brain. Curcumin, which gives turmeric its yellow color, is thought to improve memory and boost mental health due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation has previously been linked to both dementia and severe depression.

Curry ingredient turmeric is MORE effective than paracetamol or ibuprofen at easing painful injuries, study finds
Daily Mail, March 2018
Indian spice staple eases discomfort just as much as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Yet its key component curcumin does not cause their gastro side effects. Curcumin is a safe alternative to drugs after intense, high-impact exercise. Inflammatory-condition sufferers, like arthritis patients, may also benefit. Curcumin has been used as a herbal remedy in arthritis and heart disease.

Curcumin differentially affects cell cycle and cell death in acute and chronic myeloid leukemia cells
Oncology Letters, March 2018
Curcumin is a phytochemical with potent anti-neoplastic properties. The antitumoral effects of curcumin in cells derived from chronic or acute myeloid leukemia have been already described. In conclusion, curcumin elicits different cellular mechanisms in chronic or acute myeloid leukemia cells and the powerful antitumoral effect was more potent in K562 compared with HL-60 cells.

Herbal cures for uterine fibroids
Guardian, March 2018
The results showed the mean diameter of leiomyoma were statistically different at before and after three and six month’s curcumin intake. And both mean volume of leiomyoma was statistically different at before and after three and six month’s curcumin intake. Adverse effect of curcumin was not found. Also, Egyptian researchers have successfully used turmeric, in clinical studies, to decrease the volume of uterine fibroids in women. The study published in Journal of American Science is titled “Curcumin a New Modality for Treatment of Uterine Myoma.” The results of the study found statistically significant decrease in the uterine volume and myoma volume (cm3), “again we find statistically significant increases in Hb percentage after treatment the bleeding stop completely in 88 per cent after two weeks treatment and after four weeks in 12 per cent of the cases.” The researchers concluded: “Curcumin is a new drug with multiple pharmacological actions, no reported side effects of significances for treatment of myoma.” Also, another study published in Gynecological Endocrinology showed curcumin suppressing fibroid cell replication by interacting with Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-Gamma (PPARg). PPARg is a cell receptor that plays a role in controlling the cell cycle and cell division. It also has been found to suppress inflammation.

Nutritionist Says Everyone Over 30 Should Be on These Supplements
New Beauty, March 2018
“I love CoQ10 and a curcumin—they're both antioxidants, so they work great if you’re looking to anti-age,” LeVeque says. “CoQ10 is known to help mitochondrial health and boost cellular energy, and as we age, you want to keep your mitochondria working efficiently because they're the energy powerhouse inside every cell in your body.” Additionally, coQ10 can protect skin against environmental stressors and free radicals, deterring any damage that can accelerate the aging process. “Curcumin—another good option—is the active ingredient inside turmeric and super anti-inflammatory,” adds LeVeque. Furthermore, curcumin has been proven to have a few under-the-radar health perks; most notably that it might be able to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.


Know the various health benefits of everyday spices and herbs
Review Online, March 2018
Turmeric. This yellow spice gets a lot of hype, and for good reason. It’s a good source of curcumin, an antioxidant that eases inflammation. Research suggests curcumin may help ease pain and lower the chances of heart attacks. Other research shows eating even small amounts of turmeric regularly may help prevent or slow down Alzheimer’s disease, possibly by helping prevent the brain plaques that lead to dementia.

Curcumin induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation in infantile hemangioma endothelial cells
Medicine, March 2018
Curcumin has been used as an alternative medicine for the treatment of infantile hemangiomas (IHs). We found that curcumin potently inhibited proliferation in HemECs, achieving low-micromolar IC50 (the half maximal inhibitory concentration) value. We also observed that treatment with curcumin induced apoptosis in HemECs, as evidenced by positively Annexin-V-FITC staining, caspase-3 activation, and cleavage of poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP) in the treated cells. Moreover, we showed that curcumin suppressed the expression of antiapoptotic protein myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1), hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).Altogether, our study suggests that the effectiveness of curcumin in IHs may be associated with its potent antiproliferative and apoptotic activities in HemECs.

Turmeric Can Help Prevent Heart Attacks, Doctor Says
Tech Times, March 2018
"The main active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin and it's used as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and has some action as an antiplatelet agent that can slow blood clotting, in a similar but more gentle way than aspirin," said Cotterel. Aspirin has also been used to help prevent heart attacks. Dr. Cotterel expressed turmeric can be used similarly, although there are no clinical trials to back up this up other than in people who have just gotten coronary artery bypass grafts. "Clinical research suggests that taking the turmeric constituent, curcuminoids, 4 grams daily beginning 3 days prior to surgery and continuing for 5 days post-surgery can decrease the relative risk of myocardial infarction following coronary artery bypass grafting by approximately 56 percent compared to placebo," according to the Natural Medicines Database. Turmeric's anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce joint pain, osteoarthritis, and may help pain related to rheumatoid arthritis. "Curcumin is another great way to get a higher dose of it so if used therapeutically, it's best to do for arthritis. You wouldn't overdose on it," said Dr. Cotterel. "Since it is an antioxidant, the spice can be sometimes used to help prevent some of the diseases associated with oxidation in the body such as cancer. It has also been found to be effective in itching from various sources," said Dr. Cotterel. In addition, other research suggests taking turmeric extract at 1.4 grams/day orally in two different doses over 3 months have the ability to reduce levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, and triglyceride in patients aged 15-45 years-old.

Curcumin may serve an anticancer role in human osteosarcoma cell line U-2 OS by targeting ITPR1
Oncology Letters, March 2018
Treatment with curcumin was able to significantly increase the levels of CLTC and ITPR1 mRNA in curcumin‑treated cells compared with control. In addition, targeting ITPR1 with curcumin significantly promoted apoptosis and suppressed proliferation, migration and invasion. Targeting ITPR1 via curcumin may serve an anticancer role by mediating apoptosis, proliferation, migration and invasion in U-2 OS cells.

Turmeric Could Help Treat Endometriosis, Says Study
Womens Health, March 2018
A review of relevant studies published in the journal Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, examined the effect that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has on the disease. Results of in vitro and animal studies showed that curcumin reduced pain and inflammation through the suppression of inflammatory cytokines expression. It was also found to repress the invasion, attachment, and angiogenesis of endometrial lesions, inhibiting the disease's progression.

Curcumin and endometriosis: Review on potential roles and molecular mechanisms
Science Direct, March 2018
Turmeric, an important spice all around the world, is obtained from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa, a member of the Zingiberaceae family. It has been used in the prevention and treatment of many diseases since ancient times. Curcumin is the principal polyphenol isolated from turmeric. Several evidences have shown the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-metastatic activities of curcumin. In this review, relevant articles on the effect of curcumin on endometriosis and possible molecular mechanisms are discussed. The results of related in vitro and animal studies have shown that treatment with curcumin reduces inflammation through suppression of inflammatory cytokines expression. It also can inhibit invasion, attachment, and angiogenesis of endometrial lesions. Moreover, curcumin inhibits cell proliferation and causes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Thus, it may has potential benefits as a dietary and pharmacological agent for the prevention and treatment of endometriosis.

Turmeric is great, but look for curcumin
Herald Dispatch, March 2018
Finding a high-potency curcumin supplement can unfortunately be tougher than it sounds. Curcumin only occurs at a pretty low percentage in standard turmeric powder, somewhere roughly between 2 to 4 percent by weight. Many products on the market will claim to be "turmeric with curcumin." That sounds great, but doesn't really mean much, being that all turmeric contains curcumin. Instead of a somewhat vague label claim, pay attention to the supplement facts panel to see what percentage of curcumin is guaranteed per serving. The most-studied curcumin products on the market can range anywhere from 30 to 95 percent curcumin. It is also a pretty common trick to see a product claiming "made with 95 percent curcumin" on the front of the bottle, but after a glance at the supplement facts, it may only use a small amount of that curcumin extract in a base of regular turmeric powder. The high-potency extraction process takes a lot of raw material, therefore quality supplements can be a little on the expensive side. In certain curcumin supplements, one capsule can equal the absorption of up to 500 regular turmeric powder capsules, so it can be worth the extra price for the extra potency.

Curcumin inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma growth by targeting VEGF expression
Oncology Letters, March 2018
Curcumin is a polyphenol compound that has been demonstrated to exert effective antiangiogenic, anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor effects. Curcumin treatment inhibited H22 cell proliferation and promoted H22 cell apoptosis in a dose‑dependent manner in vitro. In addition, curcumin treatment inhibited tumor growth in vivo at the concentrations of 50 and 100 mg/kg. Furthermore, curcumin treatment significantly decreased VEGF expression and PI3K/AKT signaling. The present findings demonstrated that curcumin inhibited HCC proliferation in vitro and in vivo by reducing VEGF expression.

Turmeric helps eliminate depression, alleviate pain, slow the aging process, protect the digestive tract, and prevent cancer
Pulse, March 2018
As a matter of fact, a number of laboratory studies on cancer cells have shown that curcumin, which is the principal curcuminoid of turmeric, does have anticancer effects. It has been observed to have the ability to kill cancer cells as well preventing more from growing. In addition, turmeric also has the best effects on breast cancer, bowel cancer, and stomach cancer and skin cancer cells. And curcumin, which is the principal curcuminoid of turmeric, happens to be a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals due to its chemical structure as well as boosting the activity of the body's own antioxidant enzymes.

Study backs daily consumption of curcumin for your memory, mood
Jakarta Post, March 2018
The research study involved 40 adults aged between 50 and 90 years old who experience "mild memory complaints." They were randomly given "either a placebo or 90 mg of curcumin" twice a day. After 18 months, those who consumed curcumin were reported to experience "significant improvements in their memory and attention abilities," while those who were given the placebo did not. In addition to a 28 percent increase in their memory, the curcumin group were also found to enjoy "mild improvements in mood." “These results suggest that taking this relatively safe form of curcumin could provide meaningful cognitive benefits over the years,” said Small.

Turmeric and Curcumin
Pop Sugar, March 2018
Curcumin is the most active ingredient in turmeric. It's the chemical compound that naturally occurs in turmeric. Curcumin makes up 2 percent to 6 percent of the turmeric spice found in your cabinet, according to Andrew Weil, MD. In fact, curcumin gives turmeric its distinct yellow color. That color is passed on to curry, since turmeric is a main ingredient in that spice. But curcumin isn't just part of spices; it has powerful health benefits all its own, such as being an antioxidant and having antitumor properties. In addition, at least one study has found that curcumin can be effective as a treatment for depression. Even more recently, a 2018 study from UCLA found that curcumin can help improve mood and memory loss. ADVERTISEMENT This is a modal window. The media could not be loaded, either because the server or network failed or because the format is not supported. Just like turmeric, curcumin also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a viable way to ease arthritis pain and discomfort. It also can ease muscle soreness after a workout, help you sleep better, and combat bloating. If those aren't enough benefits for you, in an animal study, curcumin was shown to prevent fat tissue growth. There's also a parallel between curcumin and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes management, and protection from cancer, and it can be used as a therapeutic aid with gastrointestinal issues, like ulcerative colitis.

Turmeric could improve memory
The Chronicle Herald, March 2018
A new study published late January in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry investigated the effect of a highly-absorbable curcumin supplement on the memory of healthy people with mild memory complaints. This study also examined the effect of this curcumin supplement on the plaques and tangles which form in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. This study was small with just 40 subjects between the ages of 50 to 90 years old. All study participants were randomly given either daily placebo or a highly- absorbable curcumin supplement over the course of the 18-month study. By the end of the 18-month study, the people who took the curcumin supplement were found to have improved memory and mood compared to those who took the placebo. The memory tests administered by the researchers at the study’s end showed a 28 per cent improvement in those taking the curcumin supplement, compared to those taking placebo. Additionally, Positron emission tomography (PET) brain scans performed at the end of the study showed a significant reduction in amyloid and tau signals in the amygdala and hypothalamus of the participants who took the curcumin supplement, compared to those who took the placebo. These two markers are important indicators of brain health and risk of developing Alzheimer’s.


What does the evidence say about turmeric's health benefits?
ABC, March 2018
It's not the spice itself that's key, rather it's an active compound within turmeric called curcumin. Research has found that curcumin has some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. "Curcumin is a very powerful anti-inflammatory agent," said Professor Manohar Garg, director of the nutraceuticals research program at the University of Newcastle. Because inflammation is linked to a range of chronic conditions and diseases, among them arthritis, Alzheimer's and heart disease, researchers argue curcumin could help reduce the risk of those diseases by limiting inflammation in the body. "It's very powerful, the most powerful food I know of, for fighting inflammation in the body," Professor Garg said. Research conducted by the professor and his team found those people taking a combination of curcumin and a phytosterol (a naturally occurring steroid found in plants) reduced their cholesterol levels over a four-week period compared to a group who received a placebo. "There's some cholesterol-lowering effect from curcumin, and some cholesterol-lowering effect from phytosterols, but if you combine them together it's a synergistic effect. It's beyond what you expect from the two compounds separately," Professor Garg said. Other research into curcumin has focused on its potential to improve cognitive function, particularly in older people. The researchers found those in the group given curcumin supplements had better working memory and an improved mood while taking the cognitive tests over a 28-day period. Professor Scholey said it was possible the curcumin was improving blood flow to the brain in those who took the supplements. "There is some work showing that curcumin can improve what's called endothelial function — that refers to the cells that line blood vessels, which can be in various degrees of elasticity or stiffness," Professor Scholey said.

Curcumin May Reverse Memory Problems, Improve Mood
Forbes, March 2018
Memory function of those who’d taken curcumin improved by 28% on average over the 18 months. In contrast, the control group's scores rose slightly (possibly because they got more familiar with the tests) and then declined. The depression scores of those taking curcumin also improved; the control group's didn't change. And interestingly, brain scans revealed significantly less amyloid and tau accumulation in two brain regions of the participants taking curcumin—the amygdala and hypothalamus, which control anxiety, memory, decision-making, and emotion.

Best Foods That Could Calm The Symptoms Of Acid Reflux
Inquisitr, March 2018
Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also has curcumin, which is its most active ingredient. It is known that curcumin has antibacterial and anticancer properties. In a 2007 study, it indicated that GERD should be treated with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. In another study, it suggested that curcumin with its anti-inflammatory effects could prevent esophageal inflammation.

Indian spice may help improve memory
WNYT, March 2018
The spice turmeric, commonly used in Indian food, may help to improve memory. It's actually a compound within the spice called curcumin. Researchers at UCLA looked at 40 older adults with mild memory problems. Patients who took curcumin tablets for 18 months scored higher on memory tests and had fewer brain plaques than those who took a placebo. The curcumin group also reported small improvements in mood. Experts believe curcumin may reduce brain inflammation, which has been linked to Alzheimer's disease and depression.

New Study Shows Turmeric May Improve Brain Health
Cooking Light, March 2018
Curcumin, the bright yellow polyphenol compound found in turmeric, has been the focus of research due to its potential to prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical studies support curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on obesity and associated inflammation, leading to outcomes such as weight loss, improved blood lipids, reduced risk of atherosclerosis, and improved insulin sensitivity. Daily consumption of curcumin has been shown to improve memory and mood in people with mild, age-related memory loss, according to a study by UCLA that was recently published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Researchers examined the effects of curcumin supplements in people ages 51-84 who had mild memory complaints, but no dementia, as well as those ages 51-84 who were diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Participants took either a placebo or 90 milligrams of curcumin two times a day for 18 months. At the end of the experiment, PET scans determined those who took curcumin experienced significant improvement in their memory, mood, attention span, while those who took the placebo did not experience any of these positive effects. Researchers have identified chronic infections and inflammation as major risk factors for various types of cancer. As such, regular consumption of turmeric has been touted as a possible contributor to lower cancer rates. Results from several studies suggest that curcumin may reduce tumor promotion, block cell transformation, and minimize the spread of certain types of cancer. Curcumin’s role in the treatment of arthritis also shows promise. Studies show that patients supplementing with curcumin had reduced arthritis pain and swelling due to the inhibition of COX-2 activity. This is typically what NSAIDs are prescribed for.


Curcumin and derivatives function through protein phosphatase 2A and presenilin orthologues
Biologists.org March 2018
Curcumin, the main curcuminoid of turmeric, is a complex molecule possessing wide-ranging biological activities, cellular mechanisms and roles in potential therapeutic treatment, including Alzheimer's disease and cancer. Here, we investigate the physiological effects and molecular targets of curcumin in Dictyostelium discoideum. We show that curcumin exerts acute effects on cell behaviour, reduces cell growth and slows multicellular development. Using in silico docking analysis, we then showed that curcumin might function through direct binding to a key regulatory region of PsrA. These findings reveal novel cellular and molecular mechanisms for the function of curcumin and related compounds.

Is Turmeric Good For You? Science Says It Can Improve Your Memory, So Eat Up
Elite Daily, March 2018
Curcumin and turmeric are sometimes used interchangeably, but they actually aren’t the same thing. Turmeric is a spice, while curcumin is a chemical compound that is found in turmeric. In other words, curcumin can be taken separately from turmeric in supplement form, but turmeric doesn’t exist without curcumin. For example, in addition to improving memory, turmeric yields a decent amount of medicinal properties. According to Healthline, curcumin is also a strong antioxidant and contains anti-inflammatory properties. It also has been noted to potentially prevent heart disease by strengthening blood vessel lining.


Curcumin May Help Improve Memory: Other Potential Health Benefits Of This Turmeric Compound
Tech Times, March 2018
The researchers found less signals of tau and amyloid proteins in those who were given curcumin supplements. These proteins are linked to the development of Alzheimer's Disease. "Exactly how curcumin may exert cognitive and mood effects is not certain, but several potential mechanisms could explain our findings," researchers wrote in their study. "Curcumin reduces inflammation, and heightened brain inflammation has been linked to both Alzheimer disease and major depression." Countries such as India, where people eat curcumin at levels of about 100 mg to 200 mg a day over long periods of time, have low prevalence of cancer. Researchers suspect this may have something to do with the health benefits of turmeric. Earlier studies have shown other possible beneficial effects of consuming curcumin on health. In a 2001 study involving patients with precancerous changes, investigators found that curcumin could stop precancerous changes in organs from developing into cancer. "Our results also suggest a biologic effect of curcumin in the chemoprevention of cancer," the researchers wrote in their study. Lab tests also showed that turmeric extract that contains curcumin may help stabilize colorectal cancer that did not benefit from other forms of treatment.

Study says Increase your memory and mood by eating turmeric
Week Facts, March 2018
Found in turmeric, curcumin is hailed as a mitigating with cancer prevention agent properties, and it has additionally been recommended as a conceivable reason that senior residents in India – where curcumin is to some degree a staple – have bring down rates of Alzheimer’s malady and better psychological execution. The examination directed by the University of California Los Angeles set out to inspect the impacts of the fixing on individuals with mellow, age-related memory misfortune. “Precisely how curcumin applies its belongings isn’t sure, however it might be because of its capacity to lessen mind aggravation, which has been connected to both Alzheimer’s ailment and real sorrow,” said Dr. Gary Small.

Is Turmeric an Effective Treatment for Endometriosis?
Medical News Bulletin, March 2018
The spice turmeric, which contains the polyphenol curcumin, has long been thought to contain antioxidant and strong anti-inflammatory properties. However, few studies have investigated the effects of curcumin on endometriosis. In a recent study published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, researchers from Iran reviewed the effects. Studies Show Curcumin as Generally Safe and Effective The limited in-vitro and animal studies indicate that curcumin can reduce inflammation by suppressing inflammatory cytokine expression. In addition, there is some evidence that curcumin may reduce the disease progression by inhibiting the invasion, attachment, and angiogenesis of endometrial lesions. Curcumin is generally recognized as safe to use by the US Food and Drug Administration, and studies have demonstrated its safety up to at least 15 mg per day.


Dietary Curcumin Intervention Targets Mouse White Adipose Tissue Inflammation and Brown Adipose Tissue UCP1 Expression
Obesity, March 2018
Curcumin intervention reduced WAT macrophage infiltration and altered macrophage functional polarity, as the ratio of M2-like versus M1-like macrophages increased after curcumin intervention. Curcumin treatment reduced M1-like macrophage markers or proinflammation cytokine expression in both macrophages and adipocytes. Curcumin intervention also increased energy expenditure and body temperature in response to a cold challenge. Finally, the in vivo and in vitro investigations suggested that curcumin increased expression of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), possibly involving PPAR-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Curcumin intervention targets both WAT inflammation and BAT UCP1 expression. These observations advanced our knowledge on the metabolic beneficial effects of the curry compound curcumin, bringing us a novel perspective on dietary polyphenol research.

Molecular targets of Curcumin
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, March 2018
Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory activity and is a potent inhibitor of reactive-oxygen-generating enzymes such as lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase, xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS); it is an effective inducer of heme oxygenase-1. t has been demonstrated that curcumin- induced apoptosis is mediated through the impairment of the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway.

Curcumin attenuates heat-stress-induced oxidant damage by simultaneous activation of GSH-related antioxidant enzymes
Academic.oup.com, March 2018
It was concluded that curcumin supplementation enhanced the resistance of broilers to heat stress, as evidenced by reversing the FC, increasing the GSH content and GSH-related enzyme activities, and inducing the expression of Nrf2 and Nrf2-mediated phase II detoxifying enzyme genes.

Dietary curcumin may boost egg quality, hen health
Feed Navigator.com, March 2018
We can conclude that curcumin added in the diet of laying hens was able to increase egg antioxidant levels, as well as to reduce lipid peroxidation in fresh and stored eggs, contributing to the improvement of egg quality. Moreover, the curcumin exerted beneficial effects on an animal health by stimulating the immune response and controlling coccidiosis.


Dietary curcumin may boost fish survival, performance
Feed Navigator.com, March 2018
Our results demonstrated that curcumin dietary supplement exerts potent bactericidal action against S. agalactiae, presenting 100% of therapeutic efficacy when compared to infected and non-supplemented animals. Also, the treatment prevented the occurrence of clinical signs of disease.


The Surprising Health Benefit Hiding In Turmeric, The bright yellow spice may help protect your brain, a new study finds

Mens Health, February 2018
At the end of the study, the curcumin group experienced a 28 percent improvement in their memory tests, while those popping the placebo didn’t see a significant change. What’s more, they also saw a slight boost in their mood compared to the placebo poppers. The researchers can’t say exactly why curcumin might have these effects. But after analyzing the brain scans, they noticed that people taking curcumin had lower levels of both abnormal proteins, specifically in areas of the brain that influence memory and emotion. Plus, curcumin is an antioxidant that might fight inflammation, explains study author Gary W. Small, M.D., director of the UCLA Longevity Center. The more inflammation you have in your brain, the more likely you are to experience cognitive problems and depression, he says.

Curcumin May Reverse Memory Problems, Improve Mood
Forbes,  February 2018
With more and more of the aging population affected by Alzheimer's disease, and clinical trials for new medications often providing underwhelming results, a new study in The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry may be especially promising. It finds that taking a daily dose of curcumin, the compound in turmeric root that gives curry its yellow color, may not only prevent memory problems from worsening over time, but actually improve them. And perhaps most noteworthy, these changes were seen not only in the participants' cognitive capacities, but also in their brain cells. It turned out that the memory function of those who’d taken curcumin improved by 28% on average over the 18 months. In contrast, the control group's scores rose slightly (possibly because they got more familiar with the tests) and then declined. The depression scores of those taking curcumin also improved; the control group's didn't change. And interestingly, brain scans revealed significantly less amyloid and tau accumulation in two brain regions of the participants taking curcumin—the amygdala and hypothalamus, which control anxiety, memory, decision-making, and emotion.


Is Turmeric Beneficial to Everyone? Dr. David Samadi Explains.
Reporter Expert,  February 2018
Renowned surgeon David Samadi is enthusiastic about people using turmeric to improve their own health. Dr. Samadi is the chairman of urology and the chief of robotic surgery at New York City’s Lenox Hill Hospital. He is a world leader in using cutting-edge technology to treat cancer patients. At the same time, he is passionate about educating people about what they can do for themselves to live a healthy and vibrant life. To that end, he makes frequent appearances in the media to spread his knowledge to as many people as possible. Dr. Samadi is a member of the Medical A-Team on Fox News and is the chief medical correspondent on AM 970, a popular radio station serving the New York City metropolitan area. According to Dr. Samadi, turmeric may be helpful in treating or preventing arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and depression. He explains the science behind turmeric’s beneficial effects in treating the following common conditions: Arthritis Studies show that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric that has anti-inflammatory properties, can help relieve the pain caused by joint inflammation. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Studies show that curcumin lowers the rate of relapse for people suffering from ulcerative colitis, which is a chronic form of inflammatory bowel disease. Alzheimer’s Disease Research shows promising results in using turmeric to help slow down the progression of this terrible disease. Scientists believe that curcumin may help destroy the plaque that causes Alzheimer’s patients to lose cognitive function. Countries where turmeric is frequently used in cooking have lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease. Cancer Research shows that curcumin may help reduce the spread of tumors in patients who have pancreatic and some other types of cancer. It is not a stand-alone treatment, but it may be useful as a supplement to other forms of treatment. Depression Several studies have shown that curcumin can help reduce the symptoms of depression. How to Use Turmeric for Your Health If you are not used to cooking with turmeric, you may wonder how to incorporate it into your daily life. You can buy turmeric as a whole root or in dried and powdered form. Both are good, but the dried form has a higher concentration of curcumin, the component of turmeric most often studied for its anti-inflammatory health benefits. Dr. David Samadi points out that a standard dosage of turmeric hasn’t been established. However, he suggests that one to three grams per day of the dried form of turmeric is probably enough. How to Maximize the Absorption of Curcumin Dr. Samadi suggests that you consume turmeric when you are eating a meal. Taking turmeric with food helps your body better absorb the curcumin in the turmeric. You can help ensure you are absorbing the maximum amount by ingesting turmeric while you are eating a meal that contains healthy fats. These fats include fish oil, olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, nuts and seeds.

Turmeric Compound Boosts Cognitive Power, Reveals New Study
Sci-News,  February 2018
Curcumin has previously been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in lab studies. It also has been suggested as a possible reason that senior citizens in India, where curcumin is a dietary staple, have a lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and better cognitive performance. “The people who took curcumin experienced significant improvements in their memory and attention abilities, while the subjects who received placebo did not,” Dr. Small said. “In memory tests, the people taking curcumin improved by 28% over the 18 months. Those taking curcumin also had mild improvements in mood, and their brain PET scans showed significantly less amyloid and tau signals in the amygdala and hypothalamus than those who took placebos.”

Curcumin limits weight gain.
Journal of Applied Physiology,  February 2018
We investigated the effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring polyphenol known for its anti-inflammatory properties and inhibitory action on 11β-HSD1 activity, on preserving metabolic health and limiting adipose tissue growth following the cessation of daily exercise and caloric restriction (CR). Cessation of daily CR and exercise caused an increase in body mass, as well as a 9- to 14-fold increase in epididymal, perirenal, and inguinal adipose tissue mass, all of which were attenuated by curcumin ( P < 0.05). Insulin area under the curve (AUC) during an oral glucose tolerance test, HOMA-IR, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were elevated 6-, 9-, and 2-fold, respectively, in the Detrained + Placebo group vs. the Trained group (all P < 0.05). Curcumin reduced insulin AUC, HOMA-IR, and CRP vs. the placebo group (all P < 0.05). Our results indicate that curcumin has a protective effect against weight regain and impaired metabolic control following a successful period of weight loss through diet and exercise, perhaps via inhibition of glucocorticoid action and inflammation.

Lowering your risk of Alzheimer's disease
Express,  February 2018
Memory loss could also be prevented by eating more curry, scientists have claimed. The spice curcumin - which gives curry its bright colour - could boost patients' mood and memory. Eating curcumin everyday for 18 months improved memory by 28 per cent, a study claimed.

Natural supplements that you should be taking every day
Blasting News,  February 2018
Turmeric -- The spice that gives curry that yellow coloring. This powerful herb's main ingredient is curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory which the body needs to fight off bacteria that are harmful. Along with the increased production of antioxidants and a great way to fight heart disease, another important benefit of taking Turmeric is the growth hormone called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor. According to the US National Library of Medicine, decreased levels of BDNF can lead to brain disease and decreased functions in the brain. Curcumin can increase levels of BDNF, which can delay or even reverse many brain diseases or age-related decreases in brain function. You will want to add this to your supplement routine, as curcumin makes up only three percent of Turmeric, so taking it as a supplement is better.

Curcumin Improves Mood and Memory
Doctor Oz,  February 2018
UCLA researchers find consumption of curcumin helps mood and memory. Forty adults with mild memory complaints were randomly selected to ingest curcumin twice daily or a placebo for 18 months. They underwent cognitive assessments and PET scans to test amyloid in the brain, which is associated with negative effects on memory and emotional functions. Those taking curcumin improved their memory tests by twenty-eight percent, demonstrated mild mood improvements, and showed far smaller levels of amyloid than the placebo group. A follow-up study will explore the possibility of curcumin possessing antidepressant effects and whether it can help your genetic risk for Alzheimer’s. These findings back up the far lower rate of Alzheimer’s in India’s senior citizens, whose diet is high in curcumin.

Curry Ingredient May Improve Memory
GKMan,  February 2018
Participants who took curcumin experienced significant improvements in their memory and attention abilities, while the subjects who received placebo did not. Therefore it has been proven that curcumin can contribute to the improvement of memory and disposition of people suffering from moderate memory loss cause by aging. A new study has been published, confirming that curcumin, the chemical that gives curry its intense yellow color, has important health benefits, in the context of long-term consumption.

The healing power of turmeric: Curcumin may lower Alzheimer’s disease risk by boosting memory and mood
Times Now News,  February 2018
Earlier, a report published in the British Medical Journal Case Reports, noted that a 57-year-old woman, who was diagnosed with blood cancer in 2007 after complaining of high blood pressure, curcumin helped her recover from the deadly condition after conventional medicine failed to work on her body. The report said the woman started taking 8g of curcumin a day - one of the main compounds in turmeric - as a last resort after research online. With no further treatment, over the last five years, doctors said her cancer had remained stable and her blood counts are within the normal range with daily curcumin. The findings revealed that people who took curcumin experienced significant improvements in their memory and attention abilities, while the subjects who received placebo did not. Turmeric is one of the most traditional and versatile of spices used in Indian cooking. It has been suggested as a possible reason that senior citizens in India have a lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s and better cognitive performance.

Curcumin's Anti-Inflammatory Properties Might Improve Memory, Attention
Ask Men,  February 2018
Turmeric is on a tear right now. In recent years it’s been connected to everything from healthier skin to helping control pain and inflammation. But new research suggests it can also aid with memory and happiness. The paper, published last week in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, examined the effects of an easily absorbed supplement of curcumin — the substance that gives turmeric its bright orange colour — on the performance of memory in people without dementia. The study also looked at curcumin’s potential impact on the microscopic plaques and tangles that occur in the brains of those with Alzheimer’s disease. The heavy use of turmeric in cooking has already been raised as a possible reason for the lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease and better cognitive performances among senior citizens in India compared to the rest of the world. Why? Most likely because of its capacity to reduce brain inflammation, “which has been linked to both Alzheimer’s disease and major depression,” said the study’s author, Doctor Gary Small of UCLA, in a news release. The study involved a double-blind, placebo-controlled group of 40 adults between ages 50 and 90. They were Alzheimer’s and dementia free, but all reported mild memory complaints. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or 90 milligrams of curcumin twice daily for 18 months. They were then monitored at six month intervals throughout the test using a standardized cognitive assessment. After 18 months, those who had been taking curcumin were reporting significant improvements in memory and attention abilities. On average, their memory tests improved by a whopping 28%. The curcumin takers also reported a slight improvement in mood when compared to those on the placebo.

Striking with the Root: Turmeric Curcumin and Ulcerative Colitis
Care2,  February 2018
Despite evidence going back 40 years that the turmeric spice component curcumin possesses significant anti-inflammatory activity, it wasn’t until 2005 that it was first tested on inflammatory bowel disease. Why did it take so long? Well, who’s going to fund such a study? Big curry? Even without corporate backing, individual physicians from New York decided to ask the next five patients with ulcerative colitis who walked through their office doors to start curcumin supplements. And, researchers obliged. They took a bunch of people with quiescent ulcerative colitis and gave them either turmeric curcumin along with their typical anti-inflammatory drugs, or a placebo and their drugs. In the placebo group, 8 out of 39 patients relapsed, meaning their disease flared back up. In the curcumin group, however, only 2 out of 43 relapsed, significantly fewer. And, relapse or not, clinically, the placebo group got worse, while the curcumin group got better. Endoscopically, which is objectively visualizing the inside of their colons, doctors saw the same thing: a trend towards worse or better. The results were stunning: a 5 percent relapse rate in the curcumin group compared with a 20 percent relapse rate in the conventional care group. It was such a dramatic difference that the researchers wondered if it was some kind of fluke. Even though patients were randomized to each group, perhaps the curcumin group just ended up being much healthier through some chance coincidence, so maybe it was some freak occurrence rather than curcumin that accounted for the results. So, the researchers extended the study for another six months but put everyone on the placebo to ensure the initial findings were not some aberration. The curcumin was stopped to see if that group would then start relapsing, too—and that’s exactly what happened. Suddenly, they became just as bad as the original placebo group. The researchers concluded: “Curcumin seems to be a promising and safe medication for maintaining remission in patients with quiescent ulcerative colitis.” Indeed, no side effects were reported at all. So, “Curry for the cure?” asked an accompanying editorial in the journal of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. “Can curcumin be added to our list of options with respect to maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis? What is noteworthy about this trial is the fact that not only did the authors demonstrate a statistically significant decrease in relapse at 6 months, but a statistically significant improvement in the endoscopic index as well. Equally telling is the fact that upon withdrawal of curcumin the relapse rate quickly paralleled that of patients treated initially with placebo, implying that curcumin was, in fact, exerting some important biologic effect.” Similarly, a Cochrane review concluded in 2013 that curcumin may be a safe and effective adjunct therapy.

Curcumin Shown to Improve Memory
Whole Foods Magazine,  February 2018
Results of the study are as follows: Memory function of those who’d taken curcumin improved by 28% on average over the 18 months. In contrast, the control group’s scores rose slightly (possibly because they got more familiar with the tests) and then declined. The depression scores of those taking curcumin also improved; the control group’s didn’t change. Brain scans revealed significantly less amyloid and tau accumulation in two brain regions of the participants taking curcumin — the amygdala and hypothalamus, which control anxiety, memory, decision-making, and emotion.

Curcumin Attenuates on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Acute Liver Injury
Molecules,  February 2018
Curcumin pre-treatment significantly decreased CCl4-induced inflammation. Furthermore, curcumin pre-treatment significantly down-regulated the expression of TGF-β1 and Smad3 mRNAs (both p < 0.01), and up-regulated the expression of nuclear-factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and HO-1 mRNA (both p < 0.01) in the liver. Inhibition of HO-1 attenuated the protective effect of curcumin on CCl4-induced acute liver injury. Given these outcomes, curcumin could protect against CCl4-induced acute liver injury by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation, which may partly involve the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 and inhibition of TGF-β1/Smad3 pathways.

Curcumin ‘improves mood and memory Health Spectator,  February 2018
Daily consumption of curcumin improves the memory and mood of people with mild, age-related memory loss, according to a new study by the University of California, Los Angeles. The research, which has been published the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, examined the effects of an easily absorbed curcumin supplement on memory performance in people without dementia, as well as curcumin’s impact on the microscopic plaques and tangles in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. Found in turmeric, curcumin has previously been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in lab studies. It also has been suggested as a possible reason that senior citizens in India, where curcumin is a dietary staple, have a lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s and better cognitive performance. The people who took curcumin experienced significant improvements in their memory and attention abilities, while the subjects who received placebo did not. In memory tests, the people taking curcumin improved by 28 per cent over the 18 months. Those taking curcumin also had mild improvements in mood, and their brain PET scans showed significantly less amyloid and tau signals in the amygdala and hypothalamus than those who took placebos.

How turmeric can help treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
The Health Site,  February 2018
The active ingredient in the spice, curcumin, has a laundry list of health benefits. A recent case study in the BMJ showed how a cancer-stricken 57-year-old woman who was given only a few months to live cured herself with turmeric. Currently, there is enough evidence to make a case for turmeric as complementary therapy also for irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. The beneficial effects of turmeric on IBS could be attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and spasmolytic effects. Another 2010 study conducted on animals showed that curcumin in the turmeric could be beneficial in curbing stomach disorders such as diarrhoea, cramps and IBS.

How a Nutritionist Uses Turmeric For Health
Pop Sugar,  February 2018
Research published in the journal Oncogene found that turmeric is actually a more effective anti-inflammatory than over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen. ADVERTISEMENT This is a modal window. The media could not be loaded, either because the server or network failed or because the format is not supported. Turmeric can also be used to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is a growth hormone in the brain that, when low, is responsible for increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, depression, and a host of other mental ailments. The curcumin in turmeric has also been proven to reverse symptoms of heart disease. Many other studies have found a parallel function and effect of the substance on your heart as compared to exercise.

Health benefits of turmeric
Philstar,  February 2018
Antidepressants. Curcumin the main substance in turmeric may be used as an effective and safe therapy for treatment in patients with mild depression. Arthritis management. Because curcumin is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing characteristics, it has an amazing effects on people suffering from various types of arthritis. Cancer treatment. A number of laboratory studies on cancer cells have shown that curcumin does have anticancer effects. It seems to be able to kill cancer cells and prevent more from growing. It has the best effects on breast cancer, bowel cancer, stomach cancer, and skin cancer cells. Diabetes management. For lowering blood sugar and reversing insulin resistance, there’s arguably no better natural treatment than adding turmeric into your diet. Obesity. A study published in the journal “Biofactors” showed that curcumin can help promote weight loss. The researchers found that the anti- inflammatory properties in curcumin were effective at suppressing the inflammatory process of obesity, therefore helping to reduce obesity and its “adverse health effects.” Cholesterol regulators. One of the reasons heart disease is such a problem in the U.S. is that people are developing pre-diabetes (high blood sugar) at an alarming rate. A study done by “Drugs in R & D found that curcumin was equal, or more effective than diabetes medication at reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the treatment of high cholesterol. Painkillers. One of the more widely accepted properties of curcumin in scientific communities is its ability to manage pain. Therapeutic use of turmeric and other curcumin-rich plants are displacing conventional medical treatments and proving it’s a legitimate natural pain killer.

Regulation of Polyamine Metabolism by Curcumin for Cancer Prevention and Therapy
Medical Sciences,  February 2018
Curcumin (diferuloylmethane), the natural polyphenol responsible for the characteristic yellow pigment of the spice turmeric (Curcuma longa), is traditionally known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic properties. Capable of affecting the initiation, promotion, and progression of carcinogenesis through multiple mechanisms, curcumin has potential utility for both chemoprevention and chemotherapy. In human cancer cell lines, curcumin has been shown to decrease ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity, a rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis that is frequently upregulated in cancer and other rapidly proliferating tissues. Numerous studies have demonstrated that pretreatment with curcumin can abrogate carcinogen-induced ODC activity and tumor development in rodent tumorigenesis models targeting various organs. This review summarizes the results of curcumin exposure with regard to the modulation of polyamine metabolism and discusses the potential utility of this natural compound in conjunction with the exploitation of dysregulated polyamine metabolism in chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic settings.

Supplements That Enhance Detoxification
Newsmax,  February 2018
Curcumin, quercetin, hesperidin, ellagic acid, naringenin and other flavonoids enhance phase II detoxification. They also protect liver cells and other tissues and organs. They are all powerful antioxidants and more versatile than the antioxidant vitamins.

Antitumor activity of curcumin by modulation of apoptosis and autophagy in human lung cancer
Oncology Reports,  February 2018
Curcumin is known to exhibit anticancer effects on various cancers with selective cytotoxicity in tumor cells. Our results showed that curcumin inhibited the viability of A549 cells time‑ and dose‑dependently. In addition, a dosage-dependent A549 cell apoptosis‑induction phenomena was observed by the curcumin intervention. Moreover, obvious autophagy was induced after curcumin‑treatment, characterized by the formation of fluorescent particles [autophagic vesicles (AVs)] and significant increase in ratio of LC3‑Ⅱ/LC3‑Ⅰ and Beclin1 as well as decreased p62 expression. Furthermore, the effect of curcumin on a substantial downregulation of phosphatidylinositol 3‑kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway was observed. It is worth noting that the inhibition of mTOR by rapamycin or of PI3K/Akt by LY294002 augmented curcumin‑induced apoptosis and autophagy, leading to significant inhibition of cell proliferation. From these findings, it can be speculated that curcumin potently inhibit the cell growth of NSCLC A549 cells through inducing both apoptosis and autophagy by inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. These results support the potential use of curcumin as a novel candidate in treatment of human lung cancer.

Diabetes and Obesity Linked to Higher Cancer Risk: 4 Foods That Reduce This Risk
NDTV,  February 2018
Turmeric: The principle component of turmeric is curcumin which is a potent antioxidant scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells. Almost 2000 published scientific papers have shown that curcumin has the ability to kill cancer cells while not harming the healthy cells.

Curcumin Protects against Atherosclerosis
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry,  February 2018
Curcumin supplementation significantly reduced TLR4 expression and macrophage infiltration in atherosclerotic plaques. Curcumin also reduced aortic interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activity, and plasma IL-1β, TNF-α, soluble VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 levels. In addition, aortic sinus sections revealed that curcumin treatment reduced the extent of atherosclerotic lesions and inhibited atherosclerosis development. In vitro, curcumin inhibited NF-κB activation in macrophages and reduced TLR4 expression induced by lipopolysaccharide. Our results indicate that curcumin protects against atherosclerosis at least partially by inhibiting TLR4 expression and its related inflammatory reaction.

Turmeric pills help woman survive blood cancer
Los Angeles Times, January 2018
In 2011, Ferguson decided to take daily supplements of curcumin, the beneficial compound in turmeric, every night. A couple of months after she began the regimen, she started on a weekly course of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The non-traditional treatment involves breathing in pure oxygen from an enclosed chamber with specific atmospheric pressure adjustments. Since then, Ferguson's cancer has remained stable and her blood counts are within a safe and normal range. Of course, due to the close proximity of her introduction of turmeric and the hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it's uncertain whether it was the turmeric that cured the progression of her disease. "The fact that our patient, who had advanced stage disease and was effectively salvaged while exclusively on curcumin, suggests a potential antimyeloma effect," the report concludes. "We would recommend further evaluation of curcumin in myeloma patients in the context of a clinical trial."

British Woman Beats Rare Cancer With 2 Teaspoons Of This Per Day The Alternative Daily, January 2018
Ferguson decided to try treating herself with a “golden spice” called curcumin, which is a naturally occurring chemical compound in the herb turmeric after she had heard about how another woman (named Margaret) had used it successfully to treat her myeloma. Ferguson began taking eight grams (about two teaspoons) of curcumin per day for about five years. As a result, she is now vastly improved to the point where her cancer count is considered both manageable and negligible. Jamie Cavenagh, professor of blood diseases at London’s Barts Hospital, who has subsequently co-authored a report on Ferguson’s case, believes curcumin was a decisive part of her amazing recovery. As Cavenagh explains, “When you review her chart, there’s no alternative explanation for her recovery other than we’re seeing a response to curcumin.” Dr. Abbas Zaidi, a hematologist at Barts NHS Health Trust, who contributed to the report on Ferguson, also believes that curcumin played an important role in her improvement.


Curcumin attenuates collagen-induced inflammatory response through the “gut-brain axis”
Journal of Neuroinflammation, January 2018
Oral administration of curcumin restored the imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic tones in CIA rats and increased ChAT activity and expression of ChAT and VAChT in the gut, brain, and synovium. Additionally, VGX eliminated the effects of curcumin on arthritis and ACh biosynthesis and transport. Electrophysiological data showed that curcumin markedly increased neuronal excitability of the vagus nerve. Furthermore, selective α7 nAChR antagonists abolished the effects of curcumin on CIA. Our results demonstrate that curcumin attenuates CIA through the “gut-brain axis” by modulating the function of the cholinergic system. These findings provide a novel approach for mechanistic studies of anti-arthritic compounds with low oral absorption and bioavailability.

Healing foods
Navhindtimes.in January 2018
Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that curcumin and turmeric have antimutagenic and anticancer properties and have also been shown to be effective against Alzheimer’s disease in animal models. A glass of hot milk with a pinch of haldi is a common household remedy for a cold and sore throat. Curcumin is fat soluble and needs to be absorbed in the presence of fat. Hence haldi should be fried along with the seasonings in oil. Black pepper has also been found to increase the absorption of cucurmin. Supplements containing haldi extracts or curcumin should be taken after a meal as the fat in the meal helps in its absorption.

The miracle of turmeric: How can this golden spice help reinvigorate your health
Express, January 2018
The 67-year-old, who had battled blood cancer for five years, began taking daily doses of curcumin, one of the main compounds of turmeric. More familiar as an ingredient in curries the spice is also an ancient remedy for a variety of ailments. While this natural approach won’t work for everyone the Londoner’s cancer-cell count is now negligible. As Dieneke’s doctors hail the remarkable results we take a look at turmeric and the ways in which it may boost health. The spice, recognisable by its golden colour, is ground from the dried root of a plant called Curcuma longa. A relative of ginger it thrives in warm, moist conditions and has long been used as a medicine in Chinese and Indian cultures. Turmeric’s healing powers are attributed to phytochemicals, compounds which are present in many plants. Curcumin, which is found in turmeric, is claimed to be one of the most powerful remedies in nature’s medicine cabinet. Another benefit of turmeric may be combating depression, stress and anxiety. It is claimed curcumin can be used as a natural alternative to drugs such as Prozac, working by inhibiting an enzyme in the brain that is responsible for depression. There may be a double whammy as it is claimed curcumin can also increase levels of serotonin and dopamine – chemicals that boost happiness. The powers of curcumin could even extend to improving the sex life of men by improving blood flow to the genitals.

Wonder curry spice could be used to treat cancer after stunning doctors
Leicester Mercury, January 2018
Ms Ferguson began taking 8 grams of curcumin - one of the main compounds in turmeric - each day in tablet form. It’s the equivalent of about two teaspoons. Her illness has an average survival of just over five years - making it one of the most fatal forms of the disease. It was rapidly spreading - causing increasing back pain - and she had already had a second relapse. Dr Abbas Zaidi, a haematologist at Barts NHS Health Trust, said: "Here we describe a myeloma patient who started a daily dietary supplement of curcumin when approaching her third relapse. "In the absence of further antimyeloma treatment the patient plateaued and has remained stable for the last five years with good quality of life." The remarkable improvement described in BMJ Case Reports follows previous research into the health benefits of turmeric which is packed with antioxidants.

Cancer patient, 67, ‘beats the disease with the help of TURMERIC’ after five years of chemo failed
The Sun, January 2018
In 2011 she began taking daily doses of curcumin, a key component of the spice turmeric, after another two rounds of stem cell therapy failed. Dieneke took eight grams of curcumin each night on an empty stomach. Dieneke took eight grams of turmeric every night and her blood cancer stabilised. Over the last five years her cancer has remained stable and her blood counts are within the normal range, doctors report. She has also maintained a good quality of life during this period, according to the report. Curcumin is a micronutrient derived from the herb turmeric, and has been used as a traditional Indian medicine for centuries.

Foods That Can Help You Prevent from Getting Cancer
Your Health Mag, January 2018
Curcumin, a major component of curry, contains curcumin, which blocks or reduces tumors.

Woman Halts Cancer in Its Tracks With Turmeric
Metro, January 2018
She took 8g of turmeric tablets every day for years without further treatment, and has now shocked doctors. ‘To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report in which curcumin has demonstrated an objective response in progressive disease in the absence of conventional treatment,’ her doctors, from Barts Health NHS Trust in London, wrote in the British Medical Journal Case Reports. ‘In the absence of further antimyeloma treatment the patient plateaued and has remained stable for the past five years with good quality of life.’ Turmeric is widely used in Asian cuisine and helps create distinctive colour in curries – but it would be impossible to cure myeloma with regular cooking turmeric. It would be impossible to treat cancer with regular kitchen turmeric, as it contains just 2% curcumin.

What is curcumin? Brit woman claims the wonder spice halted incurable blood cancer for a decade
International Business Times, January 2018
Dieneke Ferguson said she takes 8gram curcumin every day in a tablet form to fight the incurable myeloma. After all other treatments failed, North London resident Ferguson decided to fight back and began using curcumin — a component derived from a popular Indian spice turmeric. She said she has been taking 8gram of the compound every day in a tablet form and the result has been nothing less than a miracle. "I have been on all sorts of toxic drugs and the side-effects were terrifying. At one point I lost my memory for three days, and in 2008 two of the vertebrae in my spine collapsed so I couldn't walk," the cancer survivor said, as quoted by the Daily Mail. "They injected some kind of concrete into my spine to keep it stable." Her recovery has since baffled doctors who are yet to come to a conclusion on the effectiveness of curcumin. "Here we describe a myeloma patient who started a daily dietary supplement of curcumin when approaching her third relapse. In the absence of further antimyeloma treatment the patient plateaued and has remained stable for the last five years with good quality of life," Dr Abbas Zaidi, a haematologist at Barts NHS Health Trust said in a report, which mentions that her cancer cell count is currently negligible."Curcumin is a polyphenol derived from the perennial herb turmeric and has - for centuries - been used as a traditional Indian medicine," explains Zaidi in the case study. "The biological activity of curcumin is indeed remarkable." He added that the pigment produces multiple effects through its "natural antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and analgesic properties"

Curcumin targets gut-brain axis in reducing inflammation, study finds
Horsetalk, January 2018
The research team from the China Pharmaceutical University in Nanjing said many studies in recent years had shown that taking curcumin by mouth eased collagen-induced arthritis. A clinical trial, they noted, had shown that curcumin was safe and effective for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. However, studies had shown that its bioavailability was poor, which raised questions about how it produced its anti-inflammatory effect. They set out to explore whether the gut-brain axis was involved in its therapeutic action. The researchers found that curcumin did indeed reduce collagen-induced arthritis through the gut-brain axis by regulating the function of the cholinergic system.

ARCHIVED NEWS AND STUDIES ON CURCUMIN AND TURMERIC.
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CURCUMIN AND TURMERIC REFERENCES.

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