Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a yellow coloured rhizome, native to India and South-East Asia. Traditionally used as both a spice and a dye, it has also been used in Ayurvedic medicine for many hundreds of years. It was customarily used for swelling, wound healing and digestive disorders.

In research terms, much has been published in the scientific literature on turmeric in the last few years alone and its popularity amongst practitioners is soaring. So here's a review of some of its most intriguing effects on the body.

Modern Uses

There are over 1500 references to the biological effects of turmeric in modern herbal medicine. Many of the effects are linked to the main active constituent, curcumin, and this is considered to be the most biologically active component.

Anti-inflammatory effects

The first studies of the anti-inflammatory effects were investigated in the early 1970s and many of the specific effects of turmeric and curcumin have been linked back to this ability to reduce inflammation. Specific actions reported include the reduction of inflammatory compounds such as lipoxygenase, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB), Nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF-a), Prostaglandin 2 (PGE2) and interleukin-1 (IL-1).

Effects on the joints

The effects of turmeric on the health of the joints are linked to the potent anti- inflammatory effects of this spice. Effects on the joints were first noted in 1980 and numerous studies have investigated this effect further. A study at the University of Arizona published in 2006 showed that an extract of turmeric inhibited joint inflammation and destruction.

Effects on the digestive system

Again many of the effects of turmeric on digestive health are linked to its anti- inflammatory effects. A study from the University of Reading in 2004 has demonstrated the ability of turmeric to reduce the pain/discomfort and other symptoms associated with IBS. Another study conducted in China has found that the use of turmeric in colitis made ulcers smaller and more superficial; improved body weight recovery; improved the levels of anti-inflammatory compounds and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory compounds. A double blind, placebo controlled study has confirmed that curcumin is a promising and safe substance for ulcerative colitis.

Turmeric has also been indicated for the treatment of dyspepsia, which is frequently a symptom of gallbladder disease. Curcumins are considered to be choleretic and can stimulate the flow of bile.

Other effects

There is evidence to suggest that turmeric has a potent antioxidant activity, as it reacts with glutathione and may have an effect of SOD and glutathione peroxidase. Studies suggest that turmeric can inhibit lipid peroxidation and lower plasma levels of cholesterol, phospholipids and triglycerides. This effect may potentially be of benefit for people who are at risk of high cholesterol and heart disease. One study has also shown that curcumin inhibits platelet aggregation, possibly improving circulation and heart health.

Some studies have also indicated a benefit for liver health, particularly in reducing liver damage caused by external toxins. A study from India has shown turmeric to reverse liver changes such as fatty changes and necrosis caused by aflatoxin.

References available on request.