Can Turmeric heal a damaged brain?

Turmeric is often thought of as the spice that gives curries their beautiful color and unique flavor, but it is also an incredibly versatile in the world of herbal medicine, as well. Turmeric has been hailed for its wide array of health benefits for decades. In addition to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacity, new research has shown that compounds in turmeric may actually speed brain cell regeneration and enhance the healing process.

Two of turmeric’s most well known compounds are curcumin and aromatic turmerone. Curcumin is responsible for the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties provided by turmeric, and has been known to help reduce inflammation in the brain. Curcumin is perhaps turmeric’s most thoroughly researched compound, but aromatic turmerone is also receiving some time in the spotlight, thanks to the findings of a study recently published by the journal Stem Cell Research & Therapy.

The study’s results indicate that aromatic turmerone could be a future therapeutic option for people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. It may also prove to be beneficial for stroke survivors. German researchers from the Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine found that brain stem cells treated with an aromatic turmerone solution exhibited accelerated regeneration and proliferation. This means that the stem cells were able to grow and produce new cells at a faster rate. In fact, neural stem cell proliferation was increased by up to 80% in some concentrations. The possibilities for this kind of regeneration are endless.

An increased rate of repair could not just help people to recover more quickly from neurological disorders and traumatic brain injuries, it could also help their recovery be more efficient.

Some studies have indicated that the beneficial compounds in turmeric such as curlone, curcumin, aromatic turmerone and alpha and beta can help to protect your brain and reduce many health risks, as well. For example, turmeric may help to prevent damage to your cerebral arteries and can help maintain higher levels of antoxidants in the brain. This helps to protect your brain from free radical damage and inflammation. Turmeric may also help support healthy cell energy production levels.

Overall, turmeric is proving to be an excellent brain-booster that provides a variety of protective and healing benefits.

Sources:

blogs.NaturalNews.com

ScienceDaily.com