Turmeric could help fight cancer as scientists find compound in popular spice may kill tumours
A COMPOUND in turmeric could stop the growth of tumours and help in the fight against cancer, scientists have said.
Research has suggested that anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the chemical curcumin could halt the development of certain cancers, including those of the breast, lung, and stomach.
It was also effective against blood, pancreatic, bowel, bone marrow, and prostate cancer.
Scientists at Philadelphia's Temple University reviewed nearly 5,000 academic papers on the use of the compound in the treatment of cancer dating back to 1924.
They found it "exhibits anti-cancer ability", and could used in a drug, either alone or combined with other agents.
Writing in the journal, they said: "Curcumin... has gained attention from scientists worldwide for its biological activities (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral), among which its anticancer potential has been the most described and still remains under investigation."
They say it works by preventing nutrients being delivered to tumours and by stopping cancer cells from emitting harmful proteins.
There are, however, reservations about turmeric's potential as a cancer cure.
The review highlights previous research which has shown it to have a number of unpleasant side effects, including headaches, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
The human body is also not able to absorb curcumin well, with some studies showing very low or even undetectable concentrations appearing in the bloodstream.
'MORE RESEARCH IS NEEDED'
says there is "some evidence" curcumin can kill cancer cells, but "no clear evidence" it can prevent or fully treat cancer, and that more research is needed.
"[Turmeric] is a spice grown in many Asian countries," it says.
"Research has shown lower rates of certain cancers in countries where people eat more curcumin.
"Several studies have looked into whether curcumin could be a cancer treatment.
"These have had some promising results."
But it adds a word of caution: "It is important to remember that turmeric used in cooking is very safe.
"But we don't know how safe curcumin is when used for medical reasons.
"You could harm your health if you stop your cancer treatment for an unproven treatment.
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"Many websites promote turmeric as a cure for cancer.
"But no reputable scientific cancer organisations support any of these claims."
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