CHAT NOIR: CURCUMIN SAFETY

Τρίτη 23 Οκτωβρίου 2012

CURCUMIN SAFETY

Curcumin is a naturally-occurring compound found in the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), a perennial herb that is native to the tropical regions of South Asia. It has been shown to have beneficial health effects, including the treatment of ulcerative colitis, diabetes, uveitis and cancer, writes the University of Maryland Medical Center (See Reference #1). There are a number of safety considerations to be taken into account before taking curcumin for medicinal purposes.

IDENTIFICATION

Curcumin is a major chemical component that is extracted from the rhizome (root) of the turmeric plant and gives this herbal spice its golden-yellow color. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it is the main active ingredient of turmeric, and the health effects that are claimed for turmeric can be attributed to this compound.

PROPERTIES

According to MedlinePlus, curcumin has been shown to have a number of beneficial medicinal properties, which millions of people have relied on to treat and prevent a variety of health conditions. This compound has an anti-viral and antibacterial action that helps fight infection. Preliminary research shows that it has anti-carcinogenic properties that may help may help to prevent, manage or kill certain types of cancers, including breast, prostate, skin and colon cancers. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis.

RESEARCH STUDIES

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) reports that a number of clinical research studies have been conducted to study the health effects of the curcumin content found in turmeric. Although some of these studies show that this herb is beneficial for treating a variety of ailments, UMMC cautions that the research has been performed on lab animals or in test tubes rather than on humans. As such, human trials need to be conducted to determine both the safety and effectiveness of curcumin in treating humans.

PROPER DOSAGE

Curcumin can be taken in the form of dried, powdered root, tincture, fluid extract or standardized powder. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that adults take turmeric root in doses of 1.5 to 3 g a day. Dried, powdered turmeric root should be taken in doses of 1 to 3 g a day. You can also take 400 to 600 mg of standardized turmeric powder 3 times a day. The recommended dosage for fluid extract is 30 to 90 drops a day. Turmeric tincture should be taken in doses of 15 to 30 drops, 4 times per day. There is no dosage recommended for children.

WARNING

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, turmeric and curcumin are considered to be safe when taken in the recommended dosages. Curcumin is contra-indicated for people who suffer from a bile passage obstruction. If you have gallstones, you should consult with your physician before you take this herb. MedlinePlus reports that it has been shown to cause uterine stimulation and may also stimulate menstrual flow and should therefore be avoided pregnancy.

CHAT NOIR