Curcumin

What is Curcumin?

Curcumin is the active constituent of Turmeric that is used as a supplement for hardening of the arteries, ulcers, bursitis, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, and AIDS. It is also known as Curcuma Longa, Turmeric, Indian Saffron, Indian Valerian, Jiang Huang, and Red Valerian.

Curcumin is currently being studied for its possible use in preventing or slowing the progression Alzheimer’s disease. It has been theorized that Alzheimer’s may be caused, at least in part, by inflammation in the brain.

Curcumin helps prevent the DNA mutations that can lead to cancer. In one study, smokers that took just 1 teaspoon of turmeric each day for 30 days had lower levels of cancer-causing mutagens in their urine. Curcumin also inhibits the growth of H. pylori, a bacteria believed to cause stomach and colon cancer.

Curcumin keeps the heart healthy by preventing a plaque build-up in the arteries, which can lead to atherosclerosis. Curcumin may also help lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots.

Curcumin helps protect the liver from the damaging effects of alcohol, toxic chemicals, and even some pharmaceutical drugs. It also stimulates the production of bile, which is needed to digest fat, and kills salmonella bacteria and protozoa that can cause diarrhea.

Side Effects and Warnings of Curcumin

You may have the following side effects, but this medicine may also cause other side effects. Tell your doctor if you have side effects that you think are caused by this medicine.

• Tell your doctor if you bleed or bruise easy; this has been associated with taking larger amounts of Curcumin
• Skin rashes have been reported with touching of turmeric 
• Using large amounts has caused ulcers
  

People taking blood thinners should not use this herb medicinally, as it may increase the action of these medications.

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