Turmeric Fights Prostate Cancer

A wealth of research shows that turmeric, a spice used in curry, may help the body fight off cancer. Its active ingredient, a natural substance called curcumin, inhibits inflammation. And now researchin Germany substantiates the fact that it can inhibit cancerous growths in the prostate gland.

“Due to the action of curcumin, the tumor cells synthesize smaller amounts of cytokines that promote metastasis,” says researcher Beatrice Bachmeier.

Bachmeier believes that curcumin may be useful in the prevention of breast and prostate cancers — which are both linked to inflammation — and in reducing their metastatic potential. “This does not mean that the compound should be seen as a replacement for conventional therapies. However, it could play a positive role in primary prevention  — before a full-blown tumor arises — or help to avert formation of metastases. In this context the fact that the substance is well tolerated is very important, because one can safely recommend it to individuals who have an increased tumor risk.”