Turmeric is closely related to the ginger family and is widely used in Indian, Persian, and Thai dishes. It is often used in food to give a distinct yellow coloring. You will find it as a primary ingredient in most of your commercial curry powders. Claims are somewhat unsubstantiated; however, as of September 2012 there are 71 clinical trials underway or completed for curcumin (a major part of Turmeric).
While the research is fairly new, this one seem to hold some promise. In May 2012, British researchers found that bowel cancer cells responded favorably to curcumin and that animals given chemotherapy and curcumin responded 100 times better than with chemotherapy alone.
The data really isn't in on this one yet. I've seen Turmeric mentioned in a couple of places with regard to Alzheimers but no dosages. I can confirm that this is one of the areas that trials are taking place. Right now it seems very speculative.
Again, it is hard to tell. The Turmeric fans seem to like this claim but I cannot even tell if there are any clinical trials under way. It seems to me that there might be a link between chili peppers and cholesterol; so since curry is spicy they might be making the claim. I've had trouble linking the benefit. I'd go for something with a little more proof.
What is funny here is that on the Turmeric list that got me looking into benefits, this was not mentioned. As I researched, I found that some studies actually support Turmeric (although not specifically curcumin) with having anti-fugal and anti-bacterial properties
Some of the other claims (mostly unsubstantiated) are: speeds up healing of wounds, improves digestion, purifies blood, improves asthma, slows the progression of MS, prevents gas and bloating, heals stomach ulcers, and the list goes on.
While I do think turmeric shows promise in some areas, I would really dig down and do some research if you are considering this as an answer to something that you are having a problem with. While there are a number of trials underway, actual results are not available for much of what is being tested-which leaves a final answer as only speculative in my mind. You will definitely want to check with your doctor before self-treating with this one.
Great information about the benefits of tumeric. I never knew it had so many benefits. Hr
That is a great researched list.
I had a neighbor once from India. She told me that you will not find an obese Indian. Her reason was because they eat so much Turmeric, or curry. They had it for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
select one here...