How to Use Turmeric for Cancer Prevention – Does it Work?

Turmeric and its constituents are sometimes taken as part of cancer treatment or prevention regimens.

In animal and laboratory studies, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been observed to exhibit anti-cancer, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, turmeric has not been approved by the FDA for the prevention or treatment of cancer. There has been considerable research on turmeric, curcumin and cancer, but no clinical trials (studies involving human participants) suggest turmeric is an effective sole treatment for cancer.

Additionally, turmeric may interact with some chemotherapy drugs. Be sure to speak with your oncologist if you are considering taking turmeric supplements while undergoing cancer treatment.

Turmeric

Herbal Supplement

Joints

Heart Health

Anti- Aging

How It Works:

• Contains anti-inflammatory curcuminoids
• Promotes brain & cardiovascular health
• Supports the immune system & anti-oxidant enzymes

Dosage:

Between 400 - 1800 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Turmeric Background

Turmeric is a spice made from the rhizomes (underground stems) and roots of the plant Curcuma longa.

The spice is made by boiling, drying and grinding the rhizomes and roots of the plant. The result is a yellow/orange colored powder that is one of the main ingredients in curry.

Turmeric powder is a well-known spice, but it has also been used for millennia as a medicinal ingredient in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. In these traditions it is commonly used for liver ailments, digestive disorders and skin conditions.

Contemporary research reveals that turmeric possesses a number of potentially therapeutic characteristics, including antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-cancer, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers have also identified the bioactive ingredients of turmeric to be a class of polyphenols called curcuminoids.

The main curcuminoid in turmeric is called curcumin (diferuloylmethane). The remaining two curcuminoids – bisdemethoxycurcumin and demethoxycurcumin – are derived from curcumin.

Curcumin normally constitutes between 2 and 5% of turmeric. Curcumin supplements are available for individuals who wish to get concentrated doses of curcumin. A good quality curcumin supplement should be standardized to contain a specific quantity of curcuminoids.

Turmeric and Cancer

Turmeric and curcumin exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin reduces inflammation by inhibiting enzymes involved in the inflammatory pathway.

Inflammation is an important part of a healthy immune system. It is a generalized immune response that is often the first line of defense against injury and infection.

Short-term or acute inflammation results in blood and immune cells rushing to the affected site to help ward off infection and clear away damaged tissue. While acute inflammation is an important part of a healthy immune system, prolonged or chronic inflammation is becoming increasingly correlated with a number of ailments, including cancer.

In a 2002 review published in the journal Nature, the author noted that the relationship between inflammation and cancer/tumor progression is becoming increasingly accepted by the research community. Cell proliferation (cell multiplication) in an environment with a high concentration of inflammatory cells and DNA-damage-promoting agents increases the risk of abnormal cell growth. [1]

In addition to exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric and curcumin also act as antioxidants. Antioxidants work in the body to neutralize free radicals – molecules that can lead to DNA damage. The antioxidant effects of turmeric may help protect the body from DNA damage.

Turmeric and curcumin exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but the effect of these properties on cancer progression in humans remains ill-defined.

Turmeric and Cancer Treatment Research

Turmeric and curcumin have exhibited anti-cancer properties in laboratory and animal tests, but the mechanism underlying these effects is unknown.

In a laboratory experiment, applying curcumin directly to a tumor was observed to prevent tumor growth/proliferation. [2]

In another study turmeric was given to rats exposed to cancer-causing substances. The rats given turmeric were protected against colon, stomach and skin cancers. [2]

Curcumin has been observed to cause biologic effects in pancreatic cancer patients. It is under review as a supplemental treatment option, combined with standard treatments. [2]

In general, these laboratory and animal studies have not been replicated in human populations. Further research is necessary to understand the effect of turmeric or curcumin supplementation on cancer in the human body. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that neither turmeric nor curcumin should be used as a replacement for conventional cancer therapies.

Is Turmeric Safe or Dangerous?

Turmeric and curcumin supplements are generally well tolerated. The Natural Medicines therapeutic database rates these supplements as “Likely Safe” when taken orally and appropriately. Reported side effects are usually mild and pass quickly. Side effects may include digestive upset, diarrhea and bloating.

Turmeric supplements may interact with a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Be sure to speak with your doctor before taking turmeric for cancer or any other use to make sure you are not at risk of adverse side effects.

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