Function

• Curcumin is the ingredient in turmeric that gives the spice its yellow color. When isolated from turmeric, curcumin is a powerful antioxidant on its own.
  
  

Benefits

• Turmeric is beneficial for reducing tumor growth, arthritis pain and lowering LDL, the "bad" cholesterol. Turmeric also can protect the liver and reduce high blood pressure.
  
  

Cardiovascular

• Turmeric often is recommended for anyone with cardiovascular problems. The anti-platelet properties reduce the ability of the blood to coagulate and improve circulation to reduce the likelihood of strokes and heart attacks.
  
  

History

• Turmeric has been used in Indian and Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat digestive disorders, cancer and liver disease.
  
  

Warning

• Turmeric can cause stomach upset in some users. People who are pregnant, have idiopathic congestive heart failure, gallstones and those with clotting disorders or who are using anti-clotting medications should check with their doctor before using turmeric.