Turmeric Benefits for Pancreatic Cancer | Turmeric for Good Health
Turmeric for Pancreas:
A study states that the spice is capable of lowering the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
When researchers added the spice to cancerous pancreatic cells, production and multiplication of the cancer cells practically shut down. This occurred due to a stoppage on the cytokines (chemicals that are linked to the growth of the tumor and necessary for the cell survival).
In particular, curcumin, the yellow pigment present in turmeric, is responsible for the destruction of the tumor cells.
Further more, curcumin helps the body to destroy mutated cancer cells, so that they cannot spread through the body and cause more harm.
Experimental studies have also revealed that turmeric fights cancers arising from the prostate, breast, skin, colon, stomach, and liver.
The benefits have been seen in 62 patients, who had either oral cancer or skin cancer, and who did not respond to standard measures. Patients showed improvement in the size of the lesions, within 18 months.
Health Benefits of Turmeric:
- Turmeric is the key component in both Chinese and Indian systems of medicine.
- It is the best anti-inflammatory agent that we have, comparable to potent anti-inflammatory agents like, hydrocortisone, but does not have the adverse side effects – ulcer formation, intestinal bleeding, reduced WBC count, which these drugs have.
- It is used extensively in the treatment of gastric disturbances, flatulence, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, bloody urine, hemorrhage, toothache, chest pain, and colic.
- Turmeric has also shown spectacular beneficial results in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. There have been improvements in the morning stiffness, pain, and joint swelling.
- The spice is a powerful anti-oxidant, and fights free radicals and prevents damage to healthy cells.
- Curcumin, in the spice, also promotes liver detoxification and inhibits the formation of cancer causing nitrosamines.
Turmeric Medicinal Use:
- The turmeric belongs to the ginger family. In cooking, the rhizome is utilized. It is referred to as the Indian saffron.
- Much of its new found popularity is due to the recent scientific study that has characterized its therapeutic abilities.
Tips for use:
- Turmeric is available in powder form and also fresh rhizome form (like ginger).
- When buying powdered turmeric, try to buy that which is grown organically and then dried and pounded. Store it in an air tight container in a cool, dark, place.
- The fresh rhizome should be free of dark spots, and should be crisp. It can be stored in the refrigerator up to 1 month.
Quick serving ideas:
- Turmeric is a great spice to complement dishes which have pulses, and legumes, particularly lentils.
- Add turmeric to an egg salad, to, give it a much bolder color and a richer flavor.
- To make your own curry powder, combine in a grinder, 1 tablespoon cumin seeds, 1 tablespoon mustard seeds, ½ tablespoon coriander seeds, 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds, 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds, 1 teaspoon of ginger powder, and 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder. This can be stored in an air-tight container for up to 6 months.
Pancreas Protective Foods:
- Onions
- Fish, eggs, and poultry
- Vitamin D fortified cereals.
These foods protect the pancreas and keep it healthy and functioning.
November 8, 2009 | Filed Under
Health Research and News
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