While studies in humans are still in very early stages, lab and animal studies have shown promising effects of curcumin in the fight against cancer. Curcumin "interferes with several important molecular pathways involved in cancer development, growth and spread," according to the American Cancer Society, even killing cancer cells in the lab setting and shrinking tumors and boosting the effects of chemotherapy in animals.
Another compound in turmeric may protect the brain.
Aromatic turmerone or ar-turmerone is not as well-studied as curcumin, but it also likely plays a part in the turmeric puzzle. In a recent study, researchers found ar-turmerone promotes repair to stems cells in the brain. The study examined the effects of the compound in rats on a type of stem cell that is also found in adult brains. These stem cells are involved in recovery from neurodegenerative diseases like stroke and Alzheimer's. The compound could potentially be used in the treatment of these diseases in the future, the findings suggest.
The new study builds upon a larger body of research suggesting curcumin may improve overall memory in Alzheimer's patients, due to a wide range of possible pathways, according to a 2008 review.
Turmeric may curb joint pain.