Curcumin

Curcumin is an antioxidant extracted from turmeric root. Curcumin contains curcuminoids including curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin.

The Latin name is Curcuma longa. The plant's roots are generally used as a spice in Asian cuisine. Curcumin is the main component of turmeric, and a number of scientific studies have demonstrated its antioxidant properties.

Thanks to its antioxidant mechanisms, curcumin supports colon health, exerts neuroprotective activity, reduces inflammation, has anti-cancer properties and helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

Curcumin interferes with melanoma cells. In vitro studies show that curcumin made melanoma (skin cancer) cells prone to self-destruct in a process called apoptosis. The same study also found that curcumin stopped the spread of breast cancer tumour cells in the lungs of mice.

Curcumin suppresses two proteins that tumor cells use to keep themselves immortal. Studies evaluating the role of curcumin in cancer continue to progress at a rapid pace. Other studies indicate that curcumin slows the development and growth of a number of cancer cell types.

Researchers now define curcumin as a broad-spectrum anti-cancer agent, where its detoxification enzymes indicate its potential value as a protective agent against chemical carcinogenesis and other forms of electrophilic toxicity.

Another study suggests that curcumin may inhibit certain chemotherapy agents for breast cancer. In laboratory studies, curcumin inhibits amyloid formation. It is unclear whether curcumin supplements help reduce the incidence of Alzheimer's disease or improve this condition. Studies conducted in Germany indicate that "All fractions of the turmeric extract preparation possess strong antioxidant activity [...]". The turmeric extract tested was more potent than garlic, devil's claw and salmon oil.

New Roots Herbal curcumin is standardized to 95% curcuminoids.

As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule three times daily or as directed by your health care practitioner.