Picture curcumin as your body’s firefighter, always on standby and ready to spring into action to put out the flames of inflammation. Like a firefighter extinguishes fires to prevent damage, curcumin smothers the slow-burning flames of inflammation and oxidative stress, which can harm cells, tissues, and organs if left unchecked. Niacin: The Energizer Powering Your Cells and Fighting Cancer Vitamin K: Deficiency Symptoms, Health Benefits, Optimal Sources, and Side Effects Whether you sprinkle turmeric on your meals or take it as a supplement, curcumin is one nutrient that can really benefit your wellness routine.
1. The Firefighter 2. Joint Protector 3.
Brain Booster Other Talents Turmeric is commonly used as a natural dye for food and textiles. Don’t be fooled by the similar names; curcumin and cumin may sound alike but come from entirely different plants. While curcumin is the active compound in turmeric’s rhizome (rootstock), cumin comes from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, part of the carrot family.
Both pack a punch with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects but differ in potency and health benefits. According to a list compiled by GreenMedInfo , turmeric has shown effectiveness comparable to at least 14 prescription medications, including atorvastatin (trade name Lipitor), aspirin , and oxaliplatin (medication for colorectal cancer). While curcumin tends to steal the show, turmeric has another notable ingredient: aromatic-turmerone.
A 2014 study showed.