Curcumin

Curcumin is a powerful anticancer agent and can help shrink tumors in cancer patients. It inhibits the production of proteins that cause tumor growth and stops apoptosis, the process that causes cancer cells to die.  Curcumin is also effective against cardiovascular disease, reducing homocysteine levels and plaque formation. Because it is not easily absorbed by the body, more research is needed to determine how curcumin can help people with other diseases. Turmeric contains more than 100 different compounds, including curcumin, the primary component in its root. These compounds are called curcuminoids, and they act as natural antioxidants.  Turmeric has many uses, from a variety of medicinal applications to its use in Indian cooking. The most popular use of turmeric is in Indian curries, but the plant has also been used in mustards, pickles, and canned chicken broth.