Curcumin is a natural chemical compound that is active in the spice turmeric. Curcumin is what gives turmeric its bright yellow-orange color. Curcumin is also responsible for the leading health benefits of turmeric as a natural remedy. Curcumin, in addition to being used for cooking spicy curry dishes, has been used for centuries by Indian and Asian cultures as part of their holistic approach to medicine.1 Curucmin belongs to a group of chemicals called curcuminoids. Curcuminoids are powerful plant-based polyphenols that act as antioxidants providing numerous health benefits to treat a variety of conditions.1 In fact, there are over 6,000 medical studies that reference using curcumin as a natural remedy.2
Curcumin health benefits are massive, which is why many studies have made the claim that this turmeric compound is actually more beneficial than many prescription drugs.2 Here are some of the most important curcumin health benefits to be aware of:2,3
Specifically regarding the use of curcumin for cancer treatment, extensive research has shown that this natural remedy can help to treat almost every type of cancer. Curcumin does this by reducing inflammation, inhibiting the spread of cancer cells and by preventing the development of additional blood supply that helps cancer cells grow.4 With so many important health benefits, it’s no wonder curcumin can be used to treat a variety of conditions. Here are some of the top curcumin uses:
Some people have reported the following reactions and side effects from taking high doses of curcumin:2
Talk to your doctor if you plan on taking curcumin for cancer or for any other condition.