New research shared online September 28, 2010 finds that a common spice used in curry can target cancer cells so they are less resistant to chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Researchers at the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom are working with curcumin, found in the spice turmeric, to find out how it works to target cancer-resistant cells during treatment.
Using Curcumin to Fight Cancer
Previous studies found that injecting a formula which included curcumin into cancer cells before starting chemotherapy or radiation treatments helped to improve the effectiveness of the treatments and reduce the amount of chemo-resistant cells. Many times, after cancer treatments, chemo-resistant cells live on and this is what causes cancer to return. However, adding curcumin to the treatment process lowers the risk of the cancer returning.
Dr. Karen Brown, lead researcher of this new study is using tissue taken from patients with colorectal cancer to study how curcumin affects cancer cells. She hopes that learning how curcumin fights cancer cells may help in treating cancer patients in the future.
Health Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric has been recognized for its medicinal benefits for thousands of years by traditional Chinese medicine and has recently been the subject of numerous health studies. Curcumin, one of the many active components of turmeric, is known for its high antioxidant value as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is as potent an antioxidant as vitamins C and E. Previous studies have found curcumin to be effective in the treatment of ovarian, breast, colon and colorectal cancer. Curcumin has also been used to treat liver disease, prevent Alzheimer’s disease, lower cholesterol and treat inflammation from arthritis.
Turmeric is well-tolerated by most people and has few side-effects, making it an excellent spice to add to foods or to take in supplement form. Using 1 to 2 teaspoons of turmeric per day is sufficient for enjoying its health benefits. Supplements in pill form are available for those who wish to benefit from turmeric but who don’t like the spicy taste. The recommended dose for adults is 450 to 600 milligrams per day for general health. For the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, the recommended dose is 2,000 milligrams per day.
Sources:
Science Daily “Curry Cooking Ingredient Could Provide Recipe for Fight Against Cancer” Retrieved September 28, 2010.
The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler, ND
Prentice Hall Press 2001 & 2010
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