Tumeric may have anti-cancer impact

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., April 13 (UPI) -- Curcumin, a turmeric root extract helpful in preventing Alzheimer's disease, may also help prevent cancer, according to a U.S. study.

The study, published in the March 1 issue of Cancer Research, found curcumin was found to inhibit the growth of tumors in mice and to enhance the effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

The data suggest that this dietary supplement should be studied in combination with traditional forms of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, according to researchers at the Comprehensive Cancer Center of the University of Alabama.

Curry powder is a mixture predominantly composed of turmeric root extract and other spices such as coriander and fenugreek.