Does Curcumin Work? -- An Overview
In the United States,
curcumin is regulated as a
dietary supplement or food (in the form of
turmeric). As such, it can be marketed in the United States without any evidence that it is either safe or effective. Like most supplements, curcumin is claimed to be useful for a wide variety of health benefits, usually without much reliable scientific evidence. Some people may use curcumin for the following conditions:
Does Curcumin Work for High Cholesterol?
Animal studies have suggested that curcumin may be effective at
lowering cholesterol. However, human studies have failed to show any benefit. In fact, one study suggested that curcumin may actually increase
cholesterol in humans. Until more information becomes available, curcumin should not be recommended as a treatment for high cholesterol.
Does Curcumin Work for Indigestion or Heartburn?
One study has shown that turmeric, which contains curcumin, is effective at treating dyspepsia, the medical term for indigestion and heartburn. However, more research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Does Curcumin Work for Cancer?
There is some early evidence that turmeric (which contains curcumin) may be beneficial for people who have
colorectal cancer that has not responded to traditional treatments. There is also some evidence that applying turmeric to the skin may help relieve some of the symptoms of
skin cancer, such as itching. However, curcumin should not be expected to cure or even significantly improve cancer.
