Curcumin

Curcumin: The Potent Anti-Cancer Supplement You Need to Know About

Discover the incredible potential of curcumin, a powerful natural compound found in turmeric, which has been extensively researched for its anti-cancer properties. This potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent is already being used in American hospitals as a complementary and integrative medicine against colorectal cancer after surgery. Curcumin's many health benefits make it an essential addition to any anti-cancer program.

Curcumin, a polyphenol found in the turmeric root, is one of the most researched anti-cancer compounds, offering various health benefits. It can be utilized as a complementary and integrative therapy or an alternative cancer treatment. Curcumin is known to protect healthy cells from chemotherapy damage while attacking cancer cells and enhancing the efficacy of many chemotherapy drugs.

So, what sets curcumin apart from turmeric? Curcumin constitutes between 2 and 5% of the turmeric root, and it is one of the curcuminoids present in the root. There are approximately 500 polyphenols in nature, all celebrated for their health benefits.

The Anti-Cancer Action of Curcumin:

1. Curcumin restricts the action of the enzyme COX-2, reducing chronic inflammation in the body, which is a known precursor to cancer and other chronic illnesses. It also helps impede cancer spread.
2. Curcumin inhibits vascular epithelial growth factors, preventing tumors from developing a blood supply.
3. It has been shown to "re-awaken" a key tumor suppressor gene.
4. Curcumin inhibits cancer metastasis.
5. It has been demonstrated to kill cancer cells (B lymphoma cells) in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL).
6. Curcumin prevents the regrowth of cancer stem cells, which are at the core of many tumors.
7. It can block enzymes producing glutamate in prostate cancer and help reduce PSA levels.
8. Curcumin lowers blood platelets, thinning the blood. Cancer uses platelets to form blood supplies, grow, and spread.
9. It has been shown to increase the effectiveness of certain drugs while inhibiting their toxicity to healthy cells.
10. Curcumin helps prevent liver damage, detoxify the liver, and may be of assistance in maintaining liver health during chemotherapy treatments.

Numerous research institutions, such as UCLA, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Emory School of Medicine, and Tufts, have explored curcumin's cancer-fighting potential. Its ability to control gene signaling and affect a wide variety of tumor cells makes it an essential tool in the battle against cancer.

However, it is crucial to note that despite the enthusiasm of leading hospitals in the USA, the oral administration of curcumin may not always provide maximal benefit due to issues with absorption and distribution kinetics. To improve absorption, take curcumin with some oil (e.g., olive oil capsules, Nigella sativa, or fish oil) and black pepper or piperine.

For optimal results, take curcumin orally 30 to 60 minutes before meals with a glass of water, 2 to 3 times a day, at 1-4g each time (totaling 3 to 12g/day). If the curcumin supplement does not already contain piperine, add a small amount of black pepper powder or a piperine capsule.

In conclusion, curcumin holds incredible promise in the fight against cancer, as evidenced by extensive research conducted by prestigious institutions worldwide. Its diverse health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties, make it a valuable addition to any anti-cancer program. When taken in the proper dosage and combined with the right agents, curcumin can offer a powerful defense against the development and progression of cancer.

References:

1. PubMed: Curcumin Cancer

2. NCBI: Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health

3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25665066/

4. MDPI: Curcumin and Cancer Cells

5. NCBI: Curcumin and Cancer Stem Cells

6. PubMed: Curcumin Inhibits Lymphoma Cells

7. Nature: Curcumin Protects Against Liver Damage