Turmeric, also known as Curcumin, is so widely discussed these days that I am fairly confident many reading this recognize it’s name. If you don’t, allow me to provide a brief introduction.
An anti-inflammatory superstar, turmeric that has been around for thousands of years. It is also, quite possibly, the most studied herb with 554 peer-reviewed articles referenced on PubMed in 2019 alone. Highly acclaimed by traditional herbalists and ancient cultures, it’s high level of anti-oxidants and potent curcuminoids (Turmeric’s active anti-inflammatory component) pack a powerful 1-2 punch in the fight against all things inflammation.
In fact, turmeric is so powerful, it boasts a long laundry list of chronic conditions it can benefit (with evidence):
- Anxiety and Depression
- High Blood Pressure
- Chronic Pain
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Blood Sugar regulation
- Alzheimer’s
- Osteoporosis
- PMS
- Fibroids
- Endometriosis
… And the list goes on!
However, October is all about Breast Cancer Awareness, so let’s chat about what turmeric can do for people living with, in remission from, or have high risk for developing this condition.
Turmeric for estrogen dominance
Breast cancer can be a hormone related cancer, meaning that women living with estrogen dominance may be at higher risk for developing breast cancer. In fact, turmeric is so good at helping with hormone imbalance, it is something that I frequently recommend to my patients experiencing it! This recent study showed that turmeric significantly reduced estrogen levels.
Turmeric for breast cancer prevention
While there are many studies that show promise for the use of turmeric for cancer prevention, this recent study looked at turmeric’s ability to prevent breast cancer specifically with impressive evidence showing its efficacy in preventing proliferation of breast cancer cells. Yet another study stated that turmeric has “enormous potential in the prevention and therapy of cancer.”
Turmeric for breast cancer treatment
While there are currently no human trials showing turmeric is an effective stand-alone treatment for cancer, recent studies show that this may change. In one study, turmeric was shown to interfere with multiple cell signaling pathways, including cell apoptosis, proliferation, survival, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, and inflammation. The study stated, “An “old-age” disease such as cancer requires an “age-old” treatment.”
Now that we have reviewed just a few of the many health benefits of turmeric, I would like to share a yummy recipe using this superstar herb utilizing the power of “food as medicine”. This wild rice bowl with red lentil curry and spinach definitely fits the bill! Full of fiber and flavor, this is a recipe the whole family will enjoy during the chilly fall weather.
