The western world is beginning to take notice of the health benefits of Turmeric, which have been known to the east for centuries. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for a wide variety of purposes. Western medicine has been studying the use of Turmeric, and its active ingredient and antioxidant, Curcumin, for its anti-inflammatory effects, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, and uses in treating cancer. Let’s look at some of the information that has been made available regarding Curcumin and cancer.

In his groundbreaking book, Anti-Cancer, David Servan-Schreiber writes that inflammation is a key ingredient in the formation of most disease, including cancer. Preventing inflammation is crucial to inhibiting the “terrain” that is conducive to the growth of cancerous cells. The concept of the body as “terrain” that can be either conducive or prohibitive to cancerous cells is a major component of Servan-Schreiber’s book. (This book is truly unique, is highly recommended, and can function as a fantastic gift or conversation starter with loved ones who may not grasp the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.) To summarize very briefly, the body can be thought of as “terrain” that can be maintained to be unsuitable for cancers and other diseases through proper diet / exercise, reducing stress, and removing pollutants. The proper diet is especially crucial to creating the right “terrain.” Read the rest of this entry »