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 studyby 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. [19] 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. [20] A study also found that turmeric supplements improved mood and cognitive function in non-demented older people suffering from mild age-related memory issues.