Turmeric Against a Virus
Turmeric Against a Virus
Sep 10, 2011 | By Shamala Pulugurtha
Viruses are tiny capsules containing genetic material. They invade healthy cells of the body, multiply there and eventually kill the host cells. This can lead to a variety of infections ranging from common cold and warts to small pox and AIDS. Antibiotics cannot be used to treat viral infections because the pathogen is within the human cell. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to control the infection. Certain herbs and supplements such as turmeric may also help treat or prevent viral infections. However, you must talk to a doctor before using them.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a flavorful, yellow powder that is obtained from the roots and rhizomes of the perennial Curcuma longa plant native to Southern Asia. It has been used as a spice and flavoring agent for several centuries, especially in Indian curries. Turmeric also contains a phenolic antioxidant chemical known as curcumin, which gives it an immense medicinal value. The Chinese and Ayurvedic schools of medicine have used turmeric to treat several conditions including ulcers, heart disease, diabetes, infections and certain types of cancers. Turmeric supplements are available as capsules, tablets, powders, tinctures and liquid extracts. Your doctor may help determine a form and dose that is right for you, depending on your age and overall health.
Viral Infections
Curcumin can inhibit the growth of the influenza virus including that of the H1N1 swine flu virus, says a study published in the April 2010 issue of the journal “Food Chemistry.” Another study in the April 2008 issue of the journal “Virology” reveals that curcumin, extracted from turmeric, can block the spread of herpes simplex virus infection by inhibiting the expression of the viral genes. A February 2010 article published in the journal “FEBS Letters” also reveals that curcumin can show anti-viral activity against several viruses including adenovirus, coxsackievirus and human immunodeficiency virus. However, these benefits of turmeric have not been demonstrated in actual clinical cases, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hence, more research is needed before the spice can replace your existing medications.
Side Effects
Turmeric has been used in food for centuries and is generally considered safe in moderate amounts. High doses of the spice, however, can cause upset stomach and ulcers. It may also lead to hypoglycemia in people taking diabetes medications. The supplements may also interfere with antacid and anticoagulation medications.
Precautions
You do not need a prescription to buy turmeric or its supplements but you must consult a doctor before using them. Also, the supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. So, make sure that the product has been tested for safety and efficacy by an independent agency such as the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention.
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