Curcuma longa, better known as turmeric, is an ancient spice used traditionally among the peoples of India, Asia, and the Middle East. Turmeric is a highly-prized root commonly used in Indian cuisine and even beauty applications. Turmeric imparts the recognizable vibrant yellowish-orange hue in curry dishes. Curcuminoids are the most active phytochemicals found in turmeric root, and many of the root’s health benefits are associated with this compound.
Research has demonstrated that curcuminoids exert powerful health-promoting effects via its antioxidant, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory activity. Some research has shown that turmeric may support healthy cholesterol levels, and preliminary studies have indicated that the spice may provide natural pain relief. [1] Research is still looking for more evidence to conclude that the ancient spice can be used for these purposes.
Turmeric and How It Benefits Prostate Health
A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in the Journal of Cancer Science & Therapy displayed potential radioprotective effects of curcumin in prostate cancer patients. Groups were randomized and divided[amazon asin=B00BI8OG2Q&template=*lrc ad (right)] into 43 patients receiving the curcumin supplement and 42 patients receiving placebo. The group receiving the curcumin supplementation showed significant improvement in urinary symptoms across the board, with an impressive reduction of urinary frequency and less interruption of daily activities. These benefits were sustained 3 months after the study in the curcumin group, while the placebo group had declining quality-of-life markers. [2]
Another study investigated potential effects of curcumin at various dosages on specific prostate cancer cells in vitro. Curcumin was administered to the cancer cells in low, medium, and high concentrations and then measured and observed. Researchers discovered a notable and proportional increase in cancer cell apoptosis (death) as the curcumin concentrations increased. [3]
Current understanding is that a combination of inflammatory factors in addition to high androgenicity in the body cause and/or exacerbate the potential for developing prostate cancer. [4] Researchers discovered that curcumin possibly contributed to a decreased rate of cancer cell proliferation/metastasis development and the down regulation of androgen receptors. They also found curcumin inhibited proinflammatory chemicals in the body. [5][6]
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