Curcumin: a bright yellow polyphenol derived from turmeric!
Curcumin has a long history of medicinal use in China and India. Today, curcumin is being widely studied as a therapeutic agent for diseases ranging from cancer to alzheimer’s disease. Some curcumin formulations seem to improve aspects of cognitive function in healthy older adults. In animal studies curcumin seems to have an antidepressant effect, which may be caused by increased hippocampal neurogenesis. Curcumin
When curcumin is absorbed it is rapidly converted to curcumin glucuronide and sulfate conjugates. These conjugates may have peripheral effects, but they will likely have a hard time crossing the blood brain barrier. The bioavailability of curcumin can be significantly increased by inhibiting the formation of curcumin conjugates with a substance like piperine. In one study on human volunteers curcumin bioavailability was increased 2000% with the coadministration of piperine. Longvida, a solid lipid curcumin particle formulation seems to also substantially avoid the conjugation issue. 650 mg of Longvida alone seems to produce and sustain about twice the amount of free curcumin as 2 grams of curcumin with 20 milligrams of piperine. Positive effects on working memory, alertness and mood have been noted in healthy older adults taking 400mg of Longvida.
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that is believed to have several potential health benefits. Some of the most well-known benefits of curcumin include:
- Improved inflammation: Curcumin is believed to reduce inflammation throughout the body by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes.
- Improved antioxidant: Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Reduced risk of certain cancers: Curcumin is believed to have anti-cancer properties by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and reducing the risk of certain types of cancer.
- Improved cardiovascular health: Curcumin may help to improve cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
- Improved brain function: Curcumin may help to improve brain function by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new nerve cells.
- Improved symptoms of depression: Curcumin may help to improve symptoms of depression by reducing inflammation and increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
- Improved symptoms of osteoarthritis: Curcumin may help to improve symptoms of osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and pain.
- Improved symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: Curcumin may help to improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation and pain.
- Improved symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease: Curcumin may help to improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new nerve cells.
- Improved liver function: Curcumin may help to improve liver function by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new liver cells.
It’s important to note that while curcumin has many potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of taking it. Also, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.