Eight things you should know about curcumin

It’s commonly found in curry

Curcumin occurs naturally in the spice turmeric and gives it that characteristic yellow color. People have been using curcumin in ancient Ayurvedic medicine for over 1000 years due to its wide-ranging health benefits. Curcumin is also commonly used in curries and cooking throughout Asia.

It’s safe to take

Unlike many modern medicines, the health benefits of curcumin are not tempered by problematic side-effects. Curcumin has low toxicity, and at worst, high doses have been known to cause stomach upsets.

It improves brain function

A recent long-term study has shown that a supplement of curcumin taken daily over 18 months improved cognition and recall ability in those over 50. It is thought that curcumin may work by breaking down the “gunk” that forms in the brain and which is thought to play a critical role in the development of Alzheimer’s.

The supplements were also shown to …