For centuries, the ancient Indian texts have stated the almost magical
qualities of turmeric. However, it is only in recent years, that the
Western world has woken up to this ancient knowledge of the medicinal
uses of turmeric. Research activity into Curcumin - the active
ingredient of turmeric, has increased. The following researches/studies have been undertaken to study the effects of turmeric and curcumin on the various diseases :
- The U.S. National Institute of Health has four clinical trials underway to study curcumin treatment for pancreatic cancer, multiple myeloma, Alzheimer's and colorectal cancer.
- An experiment involving genetically altered mice suggested that curcumin might restrict the accumulation of destructive Beta amyloids in the brains of Alzheimer's patients and also break up existing plaques.
- Recent studies have suggested that turmeric can be effective in fighting a number of sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea.
- Investigations into the low occurrence of colorectal cancer amongst groups of people who eat turmeric in the curries as compared to people whose intake of turmeric is low has suggested that some ingredient of turmeric may have anti-cancer properties.
- Several Research companies are studying the use of a curcumin cream for psoriasis(a skin disorder) treatment.
- Recent reports suggest that turmeric slows the spread of breast cancer into lungs and other body parts.