The Potential Of Turmeric As A Cancer Cure

Lending its lovely yellow hue to the multifarious cuisines of India, turmeric is much more than just a spice. It’s a rich tradition dipped in the glorious pictures of an Indian wedding and earthy aroma of ‘ma ke haath ka khaana.’ And now, it is being touted as a cure for cancer too!

The health benefits of turmeric have been known to us for centuries (1). But it has only been recently found out that the ‘curcumin’ present in turmeric can help prevent the development of cancerous cells, and even eliminate those that have already developed (2).

Here’s how turmeric can help fight cancer!

1. Destroys Tumor Cells

Turmeric possesses something known as ‘immunomodulatory properties’ that help in speeding up the death of cancerous cells, which is why it’s being considered as an alternative cure for cancer (3). Curcumin, a substance present in turmeric in abundance, helps in the regulation as well as modulation of the growth of tumor cells, selectively destroying those that appear harmful. The good thing about this compound in turmeric is that it doesn’t have an impact on non-cancerous cells and only kills those that are cancerous (4).

2. Prevents Tumor Formation

Studies have shown that curcumin possesses the ability to inhibit the activity of cancer-causing agents (mutagens and carcinogens for example), thereby preventing the formation of tumors in your body (5). In the early stages of cancer, curcumin also helps in controlling the spreading of the disease to the other parts of your body. So, as soon as carcinogens enter your body, turmeric can help block the formation of cancer cells (6).

3. Deals With Inflammation-Linked Cancer

Although the relation between inflammation and cancer formation has not been fully understood yet, it is believed that inflammation can lead to chemoresistance, which means chemotherapy may not work as a treatment (7). Besides, inflammation is closely associated with the spreading of cancer. Since turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting agent, it can help prevent this inflammation (8), (9).

4. Tackles Cancer Linked To Free Radicals

Curcumin is not just anti-inflammatory or immune-boosting, it’s also an antioxidant as powerful as vitamins C and E. It’s this property of turmeric that helps in fighting against damage caused by free radicals. One of the strongest risk factors for cancer is damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals increase toxicity in the cells and even damage them. However, curcumin in turmeric acts as an antidote and heals damaged cells (10).

5. Restricts Supply Of Nutrients To Cancerous Cells

A process known as ‘angiogenesis,’ in which new blood vessels are formed, is essential for cancer cells to grow and spread (11). Cancerous cells help in the formation of these blood vessels by supplying them with oxygen and nutrients. This leads to the spreading of cancer in the different parts of your body. Turmeric can stop this from taking place by cutting off the supply of nutrients, which cancer cells need to survive. Studies have shown that curcumin can even modulate the process of angiogenesis and restrict the growth of new blood vessels (12).

6. An Affordable Alternative Sans The Side Effects

Conventionally used treatment options for cancer, such as chemotherapy, are loaded with side effects, which can deeply affect the quality of the life you lead post-treatment. Side effects include (but are not limited to) loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, hair loss, diarrhea, pain, constipation, anemia, bleeding, and more (13). Apart from having side effects, these treatment options are also very expensive. Turmeric, however, is an expensive and side-effect-free alternative to mainstream treatment methods.

7. Enhances The Effect Of Chemotherapy

Not only is turmeric an inexpensive alternative treatment option, it’s also effective in improving the effects of chemotherapy. Including turmeric in your diet while continuing with your chemotherapy can enhance the effectiveness of the latter, especially if your cells are chemoresistant (14). Curcumin in turmeric makes cancerous cells responsive to chemotherapy as proved by studies carried out on colorectal and breast cancer cells (15).

8. Offers Relief From Cancerous Lesions

Cancer causes external lesions, which can be painful and uncomfortable. While topical ointments help, those that contain turmeric offer better relief from its symptoms such as itching and odor. According to a study, patients who used ointments containing turmeric witnessed a reduction in the size of the lesions, which dried up quickly as well (16).

Making turmeric a part of your daily diet can go a long way in fighting existing cancer as well as preventing it. However, make sure you do not consume excess amounts of this spice as you can suffer from minor side effects such as skin problems and irritation. Also, before having a supplement that contains curcumin, be sure to consult with your doctor as certain supplements may pose side effects (17).

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