Curcumin – One of the Best Herbs for Inflammation

Curcumin is one of the best herbs for inflammation.  What is curcumin? This anti inflammatory supplement is a phytochemical extracted from herbal turmeric root. Also known as the Curcuma Longa plant, which is a member of the ginger family. This plant grows in Southern Asia and in the Himalayas. Cucumin was used for thousands of years in Eastern Medicine Practice and is frequently used today in Ayurvedic medicine. Research is finding that curcumin has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Research is also suggesting it may have anti-cancer properties. Tumeric is a bright yellow-orange spice that is primarily used in Eastern countries.

Curcumin Health Benefits

Curcumin is a versatile anti inflammatory supplement. In the right form, research has shown that it…

• Treating rheumatoid arthritis pain.
• Relieves symptoms of osteoarthritis.
• Improves cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Helps with symptoms of colitis.
• Helps to prevent stomach ulcers.
• Lowers high cholesterol.
• Helps to relieve symptoms of HIV.
• May treat Scabies.
• May treat type II Diabetes
• Helps to relieve upset stomach.
• Boosts Immune System.
• Benefits Cardiac System.
• Boosts Brain Function.
• Blocks mast cells from producing histamine which causes allergies.
• Antifungal and Antibacterial properties.
• Liver protective properties.

Anti-Cancer Properties

Ongoing research is studying the effects of curcumin on many types of cancers. Curcumin may help prevent or treat cancer because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is thought to be a factor in causing cancer. Curcumin has been shown to stop the growth of tumors. It also:

• May stabilize colorectal cancer.
• May make chemotherapy treatments more effective.
• May slow the progression of cancer.
• May protect healthy cells from damage from radiation.

Curcumin and weight loss

Curcumin aids weight loss because it regulates the formation of fat cells and lowers the production of leptin in fat cells. Leptin is an enzyme that encourages more fat cells to form. Too much leptin also causes too much fat to form around the liver which can result in type 2 diabetes. Cucumin protects your liver from the bad effects of leptin.

Another reason curcumin works as a weight-loss agent is because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have found that most people have food sensitivities to certain foods. When they eat the food which they are sensitive to it causes an inflammatory response, which results in a continuous cycle of negative responses which includes:

• Your body retaining fluid as a result your body trying to flush the foreign substance out of your body.
• Blood vessels become inflamed and swell.
• Addictive cravings occur for the food you’re sensitive to.
• Metabolic disruptions happen and cause discomfort

This continuous cycle leads to stubborn weight gain. Curcumin prevents this cycle because of its anti-inflammatory response in the gut and the rest of the body, which can result in losing weight, at least in losing water weight from allergic swelling.

Curcumin Absorption

Curcumin is not easily absorbed by the body; when buying curcumin make sure it has the following ingredients which helps to increase absorption:

• Phospholipids
• Meriva or “BCN-95”

Where to Buy Curcumin

Curcumin is sold at health food stores, drug stores and online at Amazon and other e-commerce sites.

• Life extension Curcumin

Super Bio-Curcumin

Contains 100% natural curcuminoids and sesquiterpinoids for enhanced absorption.

Product Reviews

Mixed review with customer either loving it, disliking it and very neutral customers.

• Relieved painful menstrual cramps.
• Too expensive
• No difference in inflammation.
• No difference in pain.
• Love the product.

Jarrow formulas curcumin 95

Contains curcumin and antioxidants (demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin) to support DNA integrity and protect cells from oxidative damage.

Product Reviews:

Same as Life extension curcumin. Mixed reviews, customers either loved the product or disliked it.

• Unsure.
• So far so good.
• Not worth the money
• Did not help arthritis

 

Curcumin supplement side effects

Side Effects and Contraindications

• Consult your doctor first before using if you have a gallbladder or kidney disorder.
• Consult with your doctor first if you have a bleeding disorder.
• Nausea and diarrhea.
• May cause ulcers in high doses.
• Can cause skin irritations if used topically.
• Use with caution is you have a history of gallstones or gallbladder disease.
• Do not use if you are pregnant or breast children.
• Not recommended for children.

May interact with the following medications: NSAIDS, painkillers, blood thinners, statins or blood pressure meds. Herbs which may interact with curcumin include ginkgo, ginseng and garlic.

If you tolerate it, this natural supplement may be a powerful tool for you in the fight against chronic inflammation. Turmeric and its constituent curcumin is one of the best herbs for inflammation. Talk with your own health care provider and see if curcumin is a good choice for you.