Curcumin: A Powerful Anti-inflammatory

Curcumin or Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb. It is effective in modulating the pathways involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, cell death, and autophagy.  

In India where turmeric is widely used it’s been found to have a reduced incidence of Alzheimer’s disease by 4.4 fold compared to the United States. Curcumin has been shown to decrease inflammatory pathways in the brain while improving memory and learning. Additionally, helps improve mitochondrial dysfunction and the energy crisis that occurs. It can help reduce the severity and duration of brain injury. 

You can take supplements with curcumin as well as use the herb in your diet. It is super yummy as golden milk, curry, and many other dishes. To get a medicinal dose I often prescribe it in a supplement form. It is important that whatever form you choose contains black pepper to improve its bioavailability. 

Here is my favorite way to take Turmeric during the winter months:

• 1 TBSPof Ashwagandha powder (another great herb for glial priming) 

• 1 tsp Turmeric powder 

• 1 tsp of cinnamon powder

• ¼ tsp ground ginger 

• Freshly ground pepper 

• 2 cups of Almond milk or milk product of your choice

• 1 tsp of sweetener of your choice

PMID: 30545070, 31288732, 19393301