As a culinary herb, the stimulating taste of Curcumin adds zip to foods. As a healthful herbal tonic, it is said to provide warming, soothing benefits to the joints, liver and stomach. Women also appreciate its calming benefits for discomforts experienced during monthly periods.
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
History and Uses:
Curcumin (also known as Turmeric) is native to southern Asia, and is a close relative to Ginger Root. The genus name, Curcuma, is derived from an Arabic word, kurkum, meaning "saffron," referring to the its color, and Curcumin is used as a dye and a cooking spice in India and other Asian countries. We are told that native populations of the Pacific sprinkled Curcumin dust on their shoulders during ceremonial dances and used it for numerous medical problems ranging from constipation to skin diseases. The inhalation of smoke from burning Curcumin was also thought to relieve "hysterical fits." In India, women with lovely, velvety skin often attribute it to consuming Curcumin. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the rhizome and the root, and the herb has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of jaundice and other liver ailments, ulcers, parasitic infections, various skin diseases, sprains, strains, bruises, inflammation of the joints, cold and flu symptoms, preserving food and promoting digestion. Studies on Curcumin have verified that the herb possesses cholagogue-type substances which increase the secretions of bile and thus helps to protect the liver, and is said to be excellent for those exposed to toxic chemicals. The properties of this herb are hepatic, stomachic, carminative, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. The primary chemical constituents of Curcumin include essential oil (artumerone, zingberene, borneol), valepotriates, alkaloids and protein. Modern interest in Curcumin began in 1971, when Indian researchers found evidence suggesting that the herb may possess anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin was later found to possess antioxidant properties, and evidence also suggests that Curcumin is an herb that stimulates the gallbladder. Curcumin is said to help stabilize the body's microflora, thus inhibiting yeast overgrowth. It is also believed to sensitize the body's cortisol receptor sites, and its anti-inflammatory properties are considered at least equal to those of cortisones. Curcumin is thought to prevent blood platelet aggregation that can lead to dangerous blood clots. Curcumin is also said to be anti-mutagenic and can help to protect the body from mutagens, such as smoke and other pollutants. It has also been suggested that Curcumin lowers blood cholesterol and helps with weight loss. Recent investigations suggest that curcuminoids om Curcumin may be active in the external treatment of certain malignant conditions, and this is presumably connected with the cytotoxicity of these substances, which has been demonstrated on cell cultures, including tumor cells. Past topical applications of this herb include its use as a poultice for athlete's foot, bruises, psoriasis, swellings and wounds.
Recommended Dosage:
Take one (1) capsule, three (3) times each day with water. Curcumin is said to work best when taken on an empty stomach.
Contraindications:
Those taking blood thinners (Coumadin, etc.) should avoid Curcumin, as it may add to their anti-clotting effects. Extended use is not recommended, as it may result in stomach distress. Normal therapeutic doses of Curcumin protect from ulcers, but at very high doses, it may induce ulcers. Curcumin is not recommended for persons with biliary tract obstruction, as the Curcumin stimulates bile secretion. People with congestive heart failure, whose cause remains unidentified, should avoid this herb. Curcumin is not recommended for people with painful gallstones, obstructive jaundice, acute bilious colic or extremely toxic liver disorder. This is why it is very important to take only the recommended dose of this herbal remedy. Since Curcumin is considered a uterine stimulant, pregnant women should not use it. Curcumin is said to work best when taken on an empty stomach.
Capsule Information:
Our Curcumin supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs. |
