Turmeric is a spice commonly found in curry and is also what gives ball park mustard it's bright yellow color. So what does it have to do with care giving and Alzheimer's? Great question!
Turmeric is rich in phytochemicals that rival the best anti-inflammatory drugs when it comes to the benefits; it just lacks the toxic side effects. Turmeric is a rainforest herb rich in a phytonutrient called cucurmin.
There are two inflammatory enzyme pathways that affect cancer, heart disease, and arthritis - COX-2 and 5-LOX. Researchers believe that when these pathways become inflamed due to our diet, sedentary lifestyle, and stress they become contributing causes for heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's.
Pharmaceutical companies have developed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and potent drugs called COX-2 inhibitors. Two such drug examples are Vioxx and Celebrex, these are very effective drugs. Unfortunately, COX-2 inhibitors carry black box warnings because of possible danger. (Black box warning means sometimes it is fatal.)
There are over 2000 published studies in major medical journals on the effectiveness of turmeric's cancer fighting qualities.
The turmeric plant is a member of the ginger family. It is used as a spice and coloring agent. Not only is it a spice but it helps prevent spoilage in food. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant.
According to the World Health Organizations article "Alzheimer's Disease: Of Emerging Importance" points out that India has a much lower rate of Alzheimer's Disease than the rate in the United States.
Research on turmeric sounds very interesting, so far the research suggests it works better as a preventative and with individuals in early stages. I know that I plan to continue to follow the research and to add more spice to my diet and life
References and Resources
Curry Spice Turmeric May Explain Low Occurrence of Alzheimer's in India http://www.montefin.com/diet/health/spices/curry-turmeric-curcumin-alzheimers.html
"What Everyday Kitchen Spice Can be Used for Therapy & Prevention" by Decker Weiss, NMO, FASA. of the Dr's Prescription for Healthy Living (Pg 20-22)Vol 13 #7.
Turmeric May Help Prevent Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease
Turmeric and Alzheimer's
http://www.raysahelian.com/turmeric.html
http://www.annalsofian.org/article.asp?issn=0972-2327;year=2008;volume=11;issue=1;spage=13;epage=19;aulast=Mishra
Turmeric and Alzheimer's Disease
Turmeric Shown to be Natural Remedy Against Alzheimer's http://www.naturalnews.com/026621_disease_turmeric_Alzheimers.html
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
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