Curcumin, a medicinal compound, has been used in medicine for years. It is the main active ingredient in turmeric, a spice derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa. Although it is commonly purchased in powdered form, it is also available as a ginger-like root. The health benefits of turmeric were recognized in ancient China, where it was used to relieve indigestion, stomach ailments, and aid in wound healing. Modern research has widely documented the health properties of curcumin, especially in inflammation. As a result, curcumin is used in a variety of medications and supplements. Research is also underway into its potential to treat Alzheimer's disease, depression, and even some cancers.
Strong anti-inflammatory effect
Curcumin is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals in cells. Additionally, it stimulates the intracellular production of glutathione, a compound with strong antioxidant properties. By combating oxidative stress, curcumin has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Clinical studies have shown its effectiveness in reducing inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), especially in patients with metabolic syndrome.
Relief of joint pain and swelling
Using turmeric’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s commonly used to relieve pain associated with arthritis. Studies suggest that curcumin may be as effective as popular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen, with fewer side effects. Patients supplementing with curcumin experienced reduced joint pain and swelling, especially in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Digestive health
Curcumin has a protective effect on the digestive tract, preventing digestive disorders, flatulence and relieving inflammatory bowel disease. It stimulates the secretion of mucin, a protein that forms a protective layer in the stomach lining, showing anti-ulcer properties. Positive effects of curcumin have been observed in conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, resulting in reduced abdominal pain, bleeding and diarrhea.
Heart Health and Cholesterol Reduction
Curcumin plays a key role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. It impedes the formation of fatty deposits in the walls of arteries, counteracting atherosclerosis. It also prevents damage to blood vessels and lymphatic endothelial cells caused by homocysteine and inhibits platelet aggregation. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects contribute to lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, as confirmed by systematic reviews.
Increased absorption
The challenge with curcumin is its low bioavailability. Modern technologies, including phospholipid and polysaccharide complexes, liposomal systems, and nanocurcumin particles, aim to address this limitation. Micellar solubilization, a state-of-the-art approach, significantly increases the rate of absorption of active substances, making curcumin more bioavailable than in its natural form.
Cancer prevention
Curcumin has several properties that may have anti-cancer effects. Studies suggest that it inhibits the division and migration of cancer cells, particularly in the digestive system, including the stomach, duodenum, and colon.
Mental health benefits
Research suggests that curcumin may be effective in reducing symptoms of depression.It increases the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that affects the functioning of neurons and the nervous system. Abnormally low levels of BDNF are associated with conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease.
Alzheimer's disease
In animal and human studies, curcumin has shown promise in inhibiting the deposition of beta-amyloid plaques associated with neuronal loss in Alzheimer's patients. Although curcumin has potential as a treatment for Alzheimer's, more research is needed.
Curcumin’s diverse health benefits, from anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties to potential cancer prevention and mental health support, have made it the subject of intense scientific research. Addressing the problem of curcumin’s low bioavailability remains a key issue, with promising advances in delivery technologies. The cited references provide additional resources for those interested in delving into the science behind curcumin’s health benefits.
Sources:
- Aggarwal, B. B., Harikumar, K. B. (2009). "Potential therapeutic effects of curcumin, the anti-inflammatory agent, against neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases." The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, 41(1), 40-59.
- Lopresti, A. L., Drummond, P. D. (2017). "Efficacy of curcumin, and a saffron/curcumin combination for the treatment of major depression." Journal of Affective Disorders, 207, 188-196.
- Sanmukhani, J., Satodia, V., Trivedi, J., Patel, T., Tiwari, D., Panchal, B., Goel, A., Tripathi, C. B. (2014). "Efficacy and safety of curcumin in major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial." Phytother Res., 28(4), 579-85.
- Liu, X., Machado, G. C., Eyles, J. P. (2018). "Dietary for treating osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Br. J Sports Med, 52, 167–17.
- Hamaguchi, T., Ono, K., Yamada, M. (2010). "Curcumin and Alzheimer's Disease." CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics, 16(5), 285-297.
- Qin, S., Huang, L., Gong, J., Shen, S., Huang, J., Ren, H., Hu, H. (2017). "Efficacy and safety of turmeric and curcumin in lowering blood lipid levels in patients with cardiovascular risk factors: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials." Nutr J., 16(1), 68.