Anticancer Potential of Turmeric and Curcumin

Unlocking the Anticancer Potential of Turmeric and Curcumin

Written by Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist, Educator, and Retired Pharmacist

Few spices have garnered as much attention and acclaim as turmeric in natural health and wellness. This vibrant yellow-orange root, a cornerstone of traditional medicine for thousands of years, has a rich cultural heritage that connects us to our ancestors. Central to turmeric's healing prowess is curcumin, a compound extensively studied for its potential anticancer properties. This blog post delves into the fascinating world of turmeric and curcumin, shedding light on their anticancer actions, challenges in absorption, and the innovative solutions to these challenges while also touching upon their role in conventional cancer treatments.

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric, a root, or rhizome, of the Curcuma longa plant, native to Southeast Asia, is not just a spice but a cultural icon. Its distinctive golden hue and warm, slightly bitter flavor inspire a wide range of culinary creations, making us feel inspired and creative. Beyond the kitchen, turmeric is a potent medicinal herb in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, used to treat a wide range of conditions, from inflammation and pain to skin issues and digestive problems.

Curcumin: The Heart of Turmeric's Healing Power

At the heart of turmeric's therapeutic benefits is curcumin, a bioactive compound that constitutes about 2-5% of turmeric. Curcumin is credited with most of turmeric's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and, most notably, anticancer effects. Research suggests that curcumin can influence several mechanisms in the body that contribute to cancer development, including cell cycle regulation, apoptosis (programmed cell death), angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and metastasis (spread of cancer).

The Anticancer Actions of Curcumin

Curcumin's anticancer actions are multifaceted and offer hope in the fight against cancer. One of its most significant properties is its ability to target cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, making it a highly desirable and less invasive form of cancer therapy. Curcumin interferes with various molecular pathways involved in cancer progression, inhibits the growth of tumor cells, and can even enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, giving us hope for more effective cancer treatments. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help reduce some of the side effects associated with conventional cancer treatments.

Curcumin Absorption Challenges and Solutions

Despite its promising benefits, curcumin's poor bioavailability (its ability to be absorbed and utilized by the body) has been a significant hurdle. Curcumin is not easily absorbed by the body and is rapidly broken down and eliminated. However, research has found that cooking with an oil can help increase curcumin's absorption because it is fat-soluble. Incorporating black pepper, containing piperine, with food or supplements can further enhance absorption.

While piperine increases curcumin's absorption, it can interact with and increase the blood levels of many prescription drugs. If you are taking prescription drugs and piperine, you should consult with your healthcare providers.

Innovative approaches, such as the one developed by UltraBotanica, use a protein scaffold to increase curcumin's absorption significantly. This technology ensures that more curcumin reaches the needed cells, amplifying its therapeutic potential without requiring large doses.

Curcumin - A Note of Caution

While curcumin offers promising anticancer benefits, it's essential to approach its use with caution, especially for individuals on prescription anticoagulant drugs. Curcumin has potential anticoagulant activities, which could increase the risk of bleeding when taken in conjunction with certain medications. Furthermore, curcumin may interact with chemotherapy drugs, potentially affecting their blood levels and efficacy.

Enhancing Conventional Cancer Treatments

Curcumin may also play a supportive role in enhancing the effectiveness of conventional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. By modulating various cellular pathways, curcumin can make cancer cells more susceptible to these treatments, potentially improving outcomes. However, due to its interactions with certain drugs, it's crucial for individuals undergoing cancer treatment to consult with their healthcare provider before adding curcumin to their regimen.

Consulting with Healthcare Providers

Given the complexities of cancer treatment and the potential interactions between curcumin and conventional medications, it's imperative for anyone considering curcumin as part of their cancer treatment program to consult with their healthcare provider. This ensures a tailored approach complements existing treatments and safeguards against adverse interactions.

Turmeric Curcumin Cancer Conclusion

Turmeric and its active compound, curcumin, hold significant promise in the fight against cancer, offering a range of anticancer actions that could complement conventional treatments. However, challenges in absorption and potential interactions with medications underscore the importance of proceeding with caution and seeking professional guidance. By exploring the full potential of curcumin within a carefully managed treatment plan, individuals facing cancer can harness this ancient spice's healing power to support their journey toward recovery and well-being.

Remember, the journey to wellness is a collaborative effort between you, your healthcare provider, and the supportive remedies nature offers. Curcumin's rich history and promising therapeutic benefits could make it a valuable ally in the quest to Prevail Over Cancer.

My favorite curcumin supplement is UltraBotanica's Onco-Adjunct Pathway-2. Pathway 2 contains therapeutic levels of curcumin and quercetin. Learn more about Pathway-2. 

Reference Sources Include

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Howells LM, Iwuji COO, Irving GRB, et al. Curcumin Combined with FOLFOX Chemotherapy Is Safe and Tolerable in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer in a Randomized Phase IIa Trial. J Nutr. 2019;149(7):1133-1139. doi:10.1093/jn/nxz029 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6602900/

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This information is for educational purposes. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Dietary supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare team before making changes to your health program.