Turmeric, a herb that is widely known in Asian culture and cuisine is gaining popularity in the United States. This distinctively yellow-orange powder is by no means rare; if you have ever enjoyed traditional Indian curry then you have enjoyed Turmeric. You may have also seen its extract, curcumin in the form of a pill or supplement. Curcumin makes up about 3-4% of turmeric root powder by weight.
Uses
Turmeric has been employed in the treatment of cancer, diabetes, and to protect against hepatic damage and alleviate lipid peroxidation. It is also known to have an antispasmodic effect and drinking fresh turmeric juice or turmeric milk can aid muscle flexibility, reduce the pain of arthritis, and help alleviate menstrual cramps. It is also an antioxidant and scavenges for free radicals, according to David Williams, a chiropractor and alternative medicine researcher. Turmeric and bromelain are commonly taken together to increase pain relief and applying a small amount to mouth ulcers helps reduce and prevent them. The purging properties of turmeric also help in keeping the digestive system clean and healthy. (Remember that curry?) According to Dr. HK Bhakru, turmeric is an intestinal antiseptic and helps prevent gas and is beneficial in case of chronic diarrhea.
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There is a considerable body of preclinical research demonstrating that curcumin is an effective antidepressant in the animal model. However, this is not enough to sway most physicians into suggesting it for their patients as an antidepressant alternative, and quite understandably. The lack of quality human clinical evidence supporting the use of a natural substance is no small matter from a legal perspective. Unless a substance has passed the multi-million dollar phase I, II, and III clinical trials and has received approval, there is negligible legal protection for those who use