Aspirin and tumeric
Comments
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aspirin and turmeric- also about cimetidine
Hi,
A while ago when I first started taking turmeric, I mentioned it to the oncology nurse practitioner & I was told that turmeric can further thin your blood, so you need to be careful to not take another blood thinner on a regular basis. I don't think it'd be a big problem to take an occasional aspirin or ibuprofen (also can thin blood) for pain occasionally. But you shouldn't be taking both turmeric and aspirin together on a regular basis. You should ask your doctor about it, but that is what I was told.
I like hearing the fight in your attitude- that's what got me going finally on trying some additional things. Something that I also take daily is cimetidine (also known as Tagamet, the antacid). There was a study that was on stage I and II patients who just had their colon resection. For a year after their surgery, half the group was on Xeloda alone. The other half was on Xeloda and cimetidine (800 mg/day). The group that took the daily cimetidine in addition to the Xeloda had far less recurrences than the group that took Xeloda alone. I don't remember the actual statistic amount, but it was pretty significant (like close to 50% less recurrences than the Xeloda alone group). Supposedly it is believed that cimetidine keeps the cancer from spreading. My onc said since I'm stage IV and my cancer already had spread, that he didn't know what it would do, but it was worth taking and it hopefully would keep the cancer from spreading any further. Well, as I said, I'm stage IV, but I've been taking the cimetidine for two years now & my most recent scan has continued to show that my cancer has not spread to any other organs or places in my body than how it was upon diagnosis (in liver and lungs). I can't know if it's because of the cimetidine for sure or not, but I'm definitely going to continue to take it. You can get it fairly cheap in Walmart or most drugstores. It's sometimes harder to find because apparently Tagamet isn't the greatest antacid in the world, but it's still out there. I'm not using it for antacid purposes, of course.
Best wishes & fight on!
Lisa0 -
Turmeric
I think Turmeric is great stuff and is shown to make Chemo and rads more effective with lower dosages of Chemo as well as reduce some nasty side effects.
I have a long list of complementary things I take. Go to my CSN Space and see my 'Blog' and 'Expressions' pages for a list of stuff, some good articles & links etc.
Regds
Scambuster0 -
From Sloan KetteringScambuster said:Turmeric
I think Turmeric is great stuff and is shown to make Chemo and rads more effective with lower dosages of Chemo as well as reduce some nasty side effects.
I have a long list of complementary things I take. Go to my CSN Space and see my 'Blog' and 'Expressions' pages for a list of stuff, some good articles & links etc.
Regds
Scambuster
Warnings
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it is advisable for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)0 -
i'll leave my tumeric on the shelf till finished chemoBuckwirth said:From Sloan Kettering
Warnings
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it is advisable for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
blake,
obviously better to be safe than sorry.
awesome and thanks,
pete0 -
Latest on Aspirin
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_109755.html
FRIDAY, March 11 (HealthDay News) -- Taking aspirin to protect against colorectal cancer may be effective, but mostly in people at increased risk for the disease due to elevated levels of an inflammatory biomarker in their blood, according to a new study.0 -
InterestingBuckwirth said:From Sloan Kettering
Warnings
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it is advisable for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
It would sure be nice to know the truth on if these supplements help or inhibit the chemo from doing its thing! My onc told me I could go ahead and take my supplements, turmeric included, as long as I stopped 24 hrs before getting chemo and didn't resume again until 24 hrs after my 5FU pump is unhooked. For me this would mean (since I get chemo every other Tuesday), stopping my supplements Sunday night and then resuming again the following Friday evening. So, being on 2 week cycles, that allows me to take the supplements the Saturday following chemo through the following Sunday evening (8-9 days out of every 14).
Given my scan results, I don't know if I'm helping or hurting myself. I wish I could know for sure! The one thing that makes me think I'm not hurting myself with the supplements is that when I first started doing my cleanse/detox, I did it right through on my chemo days that time. I was worried, but then that week later was when I discovered my CEA went down 61 points- I don't think it would have done that if the supplements and detox was hurting the chemo effect.0 -
Thoughts on Aloe Vera juice
Melissa,
You have a great attitude and that is more than half the battle. I copied a post from the colonclub.com discussion board about aloe vera/water and honey. I ordered George's aloe vera juice for Jimmy from the vitamin shop and we all started to take it.
I am going to order manuka honey to go along with it. I figure it can't hurt and I don't think it effects the chemo. Read the post below and see what you think. I would be interested in others thoughts on this also. Again, God Bless you on this journey.
Jan
Post from another board:
"was at my Oncologist this morning, and she told me a story of one of her patients who has Stage IV colon cancer, with inoperable tumors, numerous mets to liver, etc. Apparently, he went through the folfox, xeloda, avastin and other chemotherapys. Nothing was helping. He took it upon himself to start a regimen of drinking Aloe Vera Juice, I believe it was as pure as possible if not a mix he did himself with the Aloe Vera Gel and water and honey, and at this point, he is NED for three years. So I get home and pop on the internet and find what seems like zillions of articles about Aloe Vera and cancer... talking about the anti-cancer properties and how it controls and shrinks tumors, as well as keeping the healthy cells healthy etc. I was blown away. It went on to say its used in treatment of cancer in animals. So what are we? So, has anyone tried Aloe Vera? I certainly am going to give it a try. Since the only possible side effects are nausea and diarrhea, I'm going to wait until I get through my first full dose of xeloda to make sure I dont mix up any side effects. Any input would be appreciated."0 -
I now take Aloe juiceluvmylife said:Thoughts on Aloe Vera juice
Melissa,
You have a great attitude and that is more than half the battle. I copied a post from the colonclub.com discussion board about aloe vera/water and honey. I ordered George's aloe vera juice for Jimmy from the vitamin shop and we all started to take it.
I am going to order manuka honey to go along with it. I figure it can't hurt and I don't think it effects the chemo. Read the post below and see what you think. I would be interested in others thoughts on this also. Again, God Bless you on this journey.
Jan
Post from another board:
"was at my Oncologist this morning, and she told me a story of one of her patients who has Stage IV colon cancer, with inoperable tumors, numerous mets to liver, etc. Apparently, he went through the folfox, xeloda, avastin and other chemotherapys. Nothing was helping. He took it upon himself to start a regimen of drinking Aloe Vera Juice, I believe it was as pure as possible if not a mix he did himself with the Aloe Vera Gel and water and honey, and at this point, he is NED for three years. So I get home and pop on the internet and find what seems like zillions of articles about Aloe Vera and cancer... talking about the anti-cancer properties and how it controls and shrinks tumors, as well as keeping the healthy cells healthy etc. I was blown away. It went on to say its used in treatment of cancer in animals. So what are we? So, has anyone tried Aloe Vera? I certainly am going to give it a try. Since the only possible side effects are nausea and diarrhea, I'm going to wait until I get through my first full dose of xeloda to make sure I dont mix up any side effects. Any input would be appreciated."
Aloe vera juice is something my ND also recommended to me. He has me taking the pure unsweetened, bitter version, as it is more potent. Tastes nasty, but you do get used to it. If the kind you take tastes sweet, then it is not as potent, supposedly. Mine tastes kind of like bitter and pickle juice in one. I take a tsp 3x a day after meals. My ND has me on it for the purpose of fighting off candida yeast and also to help fight against my sweet tooth. I have read the articles online about its anticancer qualities, but my ND did not mention it for that. My angle is that it probably can't hurt & hopefully will help.0 -
Aloe @ Sloan and cancer.orgluvmylife said:Thoughts on Aloe Vera juice
Melissa,
You have a great attitude and that is more than half the battle. I copied a post from the colonclub.com discussion board about aloe vera/water and honey. I ordered George's aloe vera juice for Jimmy from the vitamin shop and we all started to take it.
I am going to order manuka honey to go along with it. I figure it can't hurt and I don't think it effects the chemo. Read the post below and see what you think. I would be interested in others thoughts on this also. Again, God Bless you on this journey.
Jan
Post from another board:
"was at my Oncologist this morning, and she told me a story of one of her patients who has Stage IV colon cancer, with inoperable tumors, numerous mets to liver, etc. Apparently, he went through the folfox, xeloda, avastin and other chemotherapys. Nothing was helping. He took it upon himself to start a regimen of drinking Aloe Vera Juice, I believe it was as pure as possible if not a mix he did himself with the Aloe Vera Gel and water and honey, and at this point, he is NED for three years. So I get home and pop on the internet and find what seems like zillions of articles about Aloe Vera and cancer... talking about the anti-cancer properties and how it controls and shrinks tumors, as well as keeping the healthy cells healthy etc. I was blown away. It went on to say its used in treatment of cancer in animals. So what are we? So, has anyone tried Aloe Vera? I certainly am going to give it a try. Since the only possible side effects are nausea and diarrhea, I'm going to wait until I get through my first full dose of xeloda to make sure I dont mix up any side effects. Any input would be appreciated."
Sloan Kettering:
Warnings
Aloe vera gel should not be confused with aloe juice or aloe latex, both of which contain anthraquinone, a cathartic laxative. Aloe vera taken for internal use should be discouraged due to possible adverse effects and inconclusive clinical data. Aloe vera injections for cancer patients have resulted in several deaths.
The FDA rules that aloe is not safe as a stimulant laxative.
(14)
Adverse Reactions
Topical administration of aloe vera gel is considered safe but oral consumption of aloe can cause gastrointestinal upset and electrolyte abnormalities.
Inappropriate use of aloe vera supplements has been linked to thyroid dysfunction (10), acute hepatitis (11), and perioperative bleeding (12). Parenteral administration of aloe should be avoided due to potential toxicities and lack of clinical efficacy in humans.
A case of hypokalemia has been reported with use of aloe vera during chemotherapy (19).
Three cases of toxic hepatitis were reported following use of aloe preparations. Liver function was normalized after discontinuing aloe (22).
Herb-Drug Interactions
Oral
Glyburide: Aloe may increase hypoglycemic effects.
Diuretics: Aloe may have additive hypokalemic effect due to diarrhea if used for a prolonged period.
Digoxin: Aloe may have additive hypokalemic effect due to diarrhea if used for a prolonged period.
Topical
Hydrocortisone: Aloe may increase anti-inflammatory effects.
(15)
Sevoflurane:Aloe may have additive antiplatelet effect causing excessive bleeding during surgery. (12)
Cancer.org:
Overview
Available scientific evidence does not support claims that aloe can treat any type of cancer. In fact, used as a cancer treatment, aloe is dangerous and may even be deadly.
The gel inside aloe leaves may be effective in treating minor burns and skin irritations. There are mixed reports about its use as a laxative. Available scientific evidence does not support claims that aloe can treat any type of cancer. In fact, used as a cancer treatment, aloe is dangerous and may even be deadly.
How is it promoted for use?
Aloe juice or latex is used mostly for constipation, whereas aloe gel is used for skin conditions. However, proponents of alternative treatments claim aloe also boosts the immune system and acts directly on abnormal cells, thus preventing or treating cancer.
The main aloe product promoted as a cancer cure is an unapproved drug called T-UP, which comes in an oral form or can be injected. Aloe proponents claim it is effective against all types of cancer, including liver and prostate cancer, although available scientific evidence does not support these claims.0 -
Hey everyoneBuckwirth said:Aloe @ Sloan and cancer.org
Sloan Kettering:
Warnings
Aloe vera gel should not be confused with aloe juice or aloe latex, both of which contain anthraquinone, a cathartic laxative. Aloe vera taken for internal use should be discouraged due to possible adverse effects and inconclusive clinical data. Aloe vera injections for cancer patients have resulted in several deaths.
The FDA rules that aloe is not safe as a stimulant laxative.
(14)
Adverse Reactions
Topical administration of aloe vera gel is considered safe but oral consumption of aloe can cause gastrointestinal upset and electrolyte abnormalities.
Inappropriate use of aloe vera supplements has been linked to thyroid dysfunction (10), acute hepatitis (11), and perioperative bleeding (12). Parenteral administration of aloe should be avoided due to potential toxicities and lack of clinical efficacy in humans.
A case of hypokalemia has been reported with use of aloe vera during chemotherapy (19).
Three cases of toxic hepatitis were reported following use of aloe preparations. Liver function was normalized after discontinuing aloe (22).
Herb-Drug Interactions
Oral
Glyburide: Aloe may increase hypoglycemic effects.
Diuretics: Aloe may have additive hypokalemic effect due to diarrhea if used for a prolonged period.
Digoxin: Aloe may have additive hypokalemic effect due to diarrhea if used for a prolonged period.
Topical
Hydrocortisone: Aloe may increase anti-inflammatory effects.
(15)
Sevoflurane:Aloe may have additive antiplatelet effect causing excessive bleeding during surgery. (12)
Cancer.org:
Overview
Available scientific evidence does not support claims that aloe can treat any type of cancer. In fact, used as a cancer treatment, aloe is dangerous and may even be deadly.
The gel inside aloe leaves may be effective in treating minor burns and skin irritations. There are mixed reports about its use as a laxative. Available scientific evidence does not support claims that aloe can treat any type of cancer. In fact, used as a cancer treatment, aloe is dangerous and may even be deadly.
How is it promoted for use?
Aloe juice or latex is used mostly for constipation, whereas aloe gel is used for skin conditions. However, proponents of alternative treatments claim aloe also boosts the immune system and acts directly on abnormal cells, thus preventing or treating cancer.
The main aloe product promoted as a cancer cure is an unapproved drug called T-UP, which comes in an oral form or can be injected. Aloe proponents claim it is effective against all types of cancer, including liver and prostate cancer, although available scientific evidence does not support these claims.
Thanks for the advice. Currently I am not on chemo so I think it would be safe to take the tumeric but I won't combine it with aspirin. Haven't heard of the aloe and honey but I'm gonna look into that too. Thanks again :)Melissa0 -
Sloan Kettering on HoneyLilmiss82 said:Hey everyone
Thanks for the advice. Currently I am not on chemo so I think it would be safe to take the tumeric but I won't combine it with aspirin. Haven't heard of the aloe and honey but I'm gonna look into that too. Thanks again :)Melissa
Although Manuka honey is promoted to cancer patients, it is unclear if it has any anticancer effects. There is an ongoing trial of Manuka Honey's effect on oral mucositis following radiation therapy (19).0 -
This comment has been removed by the ModeratorBuckwirth said:Sloan Kettering on Honey
Although Manuka honey is promoted to cancer patients, it is unclear if it has any anticancer effects. There is an ongoing trial of Manuka Honey's effect on oral mucositis following radiation therapy (19).0 -
FDA and Supplementsunknown said:This comment has been removed by the Moderator
"This is very true because our FDA will not do any testing on it so scientific evidence would be kind of impossible."
Graci,
Science is not under the control of the FDA, despite those who believe in the grand conspiracy.
The FDA regulates vitamin and mineral supplements only if harm (or death) is reported. It is an issue in the US that the supplement industry is essentially unregulated. I can manufacture a pill, claim it is 40% turmeric, and not put any turmeric in it.
Here is a description of the legislation from Wikipedia:
The DSHEA (the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act), passed in 1994, was the subject of lobbying efforts by the manufacturers of dietary supplements and restricted the ability of the FDA to exert authority over supplements so long as manufacturers made no claims about their products treating, preventing or curing diseases. According to Consumer Reports, "The law has left consumers without the protections surrounding the manufacture and marketing of over-the-counter or prescription medications" and it became the FDA's responsibility to prove that a supplement wasn't safe. While pharmaceutical manufacturers must demonstrate their products are effective as well as being safe, supplement manufacturers are not required to demonstrate efficacy. The FDA has only ever found one dietary supplement to be unsafe, the weight loss/energy supplement ephedra.[16] Discussing the legislation, Time referred to the DSHEA as "ill-conceived and reprehensible", that "gives the industry virtually free reign [sic] to market products defined as dietary supplements, while severely limiting the FDA's ability to regulate them".[17] The DSHEA was heavily lobbied for by the supplement industry, and was criticized for exposing the public to worthless compounds that bilked consumers out of money to no benefit.[16][17] Because of the requirements put into place by the DSHEA, the FDA must demonstrate that individual supplements are unsafe using their adverse events reporting system, which it is estimated captures only 1% of all adverse events linked to supplements.[citation needed] The FDA has also lacked the funding to undertake the rigorous tests to meet the standards for a supplement to be considered "hazardous" and thus removed from the market; in the one situation where this standard was reached (ephedra), the agency faced significant opposition from the supplement industry and the United States Congress, instead limiting themselves to making announcements about problematic supplement safety records on their website.[18]0 -
aspirin and tumeric
You may wish to check out Essiac Tea. There is a GREAT deal of info on the internet, and was a proven cure for all types of cancer many years back.
You can google it, and find out much. It's inexpensive,hardly any taste to it, and many books state that many people were cured in years past.
I am a big proponent of nutritional supplements and alternative medicine.0 -
Be careful with turmeric .Just google and see it's highlyEddieB said:aspirin and tumeric
You may wish to check out Essiac Tea. There is a GREAT deal of info on the internet, and was a proven cure for all types of cancer many years back.
You can google it, and find out much. It's inexpensive,hardly any taste to it, and many books state that many people were cured in years past.
I am a big proponent of nutritional supplements and alternative medicine.
contraindicated in case of any hepatic disease,!.
Hope it helped!0 -
hepatic disease and curcuminpepebcn said:Be careful with turmeric .Just google and see it's highly
contraindicated in case of any hepatic disease,!.
Hope it helped!
It is my understanding that just the opposite is true - curcumin is helpful in mitigating some types of liver disease by short-circuiting inflammation pathways (ppar-gamma inhibition of TNF-alpha induced inflammation). Here is a study on a potential mouse model of primary sclerosing cholangitis:
http://gut.bmj.com/content/59/4/521.full
It also seems to help liver damage from high levels of fructose in mice ("fatty liver"):
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20222050
as well as fibrosis in fatty liver disease:
http://endo.endojournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/151/9/4168
A review article:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19811613
Overall, it seems to be a great supplement to combat both liver disease and cancer (which hijacks inflammation pathways).
Best,
Jeremy0 -
Take a look to contraindications Jeremy.jscho said:hepatic disease and curcumin
It is my understanding that just the opposite is true - curcumin is helpful in mitigating some types of liver disease by short-circuiting inflammation pathways (ppar-gamma inhibition of TNF-alpha induced inflammation). Here is a study on a potential mouse model of primary sclerosing cholangitis:
http://gut.bmj.com/content/59/4/521.full
It also seems to help liver damage from high levels of fructose in mice ("fatty liver"):
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20222050
as well as fibrosis in fatty liver disease:
http://endo.endojournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/151/9/4168
A review article:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19811613
Overall, it seems to be a great supplement to combat both liver disease and cancer (which hijacks inflammation pathways).
Best,
Jeremy
Curcumin & Cancer
Also see commercial Turmeric Curcumin Supplements
Curcumin & Cancer - Clinical Summary
Derived from the rhizome and root. Turmeric is routinely used as a spice and coloring agent. Oral administration of turmeric is well tolerated, but bioavailability is relatively low (5) (15). Following absorption, turmeric is rapidly metabolized. In vitro and animal studies suggest anti-proliferative and preventative effects of turmeric against cancer (10) (11) (12) (13) (16) (17). Results from a pilot study indicate that turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (14). No significant adverse events have been reported. Patients with gastrointestinal disorders should not take curcumin. Recent animal studies indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer (3). More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. Data from an epidemiological study are suggestive of improved cognitive performance in elderly Asians who consumed turmeric in the form of curry powder (18).
Purported Uses of Curcumin
* Cancer prevention
* Infections
* Inflammation
* Kidney stones
* Stomach and intestinal gas
Mechanism of Action ot Curcumin
The mechanism of action is not fully understood. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and choleretic action. Anti-inflammatory action may be due to leukotriene inhibition. Its curcuminoids (curcumin) and volatile oil are both partly responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuminoids induce glutathione S-transferase and are potent inhibitors of cytochrome P450. Turmeric acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. It also inhibits activation of NF-kB4, c-jun/AP-1 function, and activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. In vitro and animal models of breast cancer show turmeric may inhibit chemotherapy-induced apoptosis via inhibition of the JNK pathway and reactive oxygen species generation. The isolated constituent alpha r-turmerone has been shown to arrest the reproduction and slaughterer activity of human lymphocytes, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory action. Curcumin is more effective by parenteral injection than by oral ingestion. Curcumin has displayed antitumor activity and may be protective against some cancers, such as colon cancer. In laboratory tests, curcumin's antitumor actions appear to be due to interactions with arachidonate metabolism and its in vivo antiangiogenic properties.
Pharmacokinetics of Curcumin
Bioavailability of curcumin is approximately 60-65% following oral administration. Metabolism is primarily via glucuronidation to glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate metabolites (4). In vitro studies indicate inhibition of Cytochrome P450 1A1. Excretion of parent compound is primarily in the feces with metabolites present in the urine (5).
Warnings of Curcumin
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
Contraindications of Curcumin
Patients with bile duct obstruction, gallstones, and GI disorders (including stomach ulcers and hyperacidity disorders) should not take curcumin(6).
Adverse Reactions of Curcumin
None known
Herb-Drug Interactions
Reserpine: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Indomethacin: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Anticoagulants / Antiplatelets: Turmeric may increase risk of bleeding (7).
Camptothecin: Turmeric inhibits camptothecin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Mechlorethamine: Turmeric inhibits mechlorethamine-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Doxorubicin: Turmeric inhibits doxorubicin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Cyclophosphamide: Dietary turmeric inhibits cyclophosphamide-induced tumor regression in animal studies (3).
Literature Summary and Critique
Human data:
James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
A randomized study of 38 patients to either high-dose or low-dose turmeric powder. Following 8 weeks of treatment, there was no demonstrated effect of turmeric on HIV viral load. A small increase in CD4 cells in the high-dose group and a consistent fall of CD4 cells in the low-dose group were documented, but neither result was statistically significant. This report of an abstract presented at the third annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections demonstrated no efficacy of turmeric in treating HIV.
Animal / In vitro data:
Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
Curcumin has shown anti-carcinogenic activity in animals as indicated by its ability to block colon tumor initiation by azoxymethane and skin tumor promotion induced by phorbol ester TPA. Recently, curcumin has been considered by oncologists as a potential third-generation cancer chemopreventive agent, and clinical trials using it have been carried out in several laboratories. Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory activity and is a potent inhibitor of reactive oxygen-generating enzymes, such as lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase, xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Curcumin is also a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C and EGF-receptor tyrosine kinase. It is proposed that curcumin may suppress tumor promotion by blocking signal transduction pathways in the target cells.
Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
This study investigated the effect of curcumin on Adriamycin (ADR) nephrosis in rats. The results indicate that ADR-induced kidney injury was remarkably well prevented by treatment with curcumin. Treatment with curcumin markedly protected against ADR-induced proteinuria, albuminuria, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipidemia. Curcumin restored renal function in ADR rats, as judged by the increase in GFR. The data also demonstrate that curcumin protects against ADR-induced renal injury by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing kidney glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase activity. This suggests that administration of curcumin is a promising approach in the treatment of nephrosis caused by ADR.
Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of curcumin when administered (late in the premalignant stage) during the promotion/progression stage of colon carcinogenesis in male F344 rats. The study also monitored the modulating effect of this agent on apoptosis in the tumors. The results showed that the administration of 0.2% curcumin during both the initiation and post initiation periods significantly inhibited colon tumorigenesis. In addition, administration of 0.2% and of 0.6% synthetic curcumin in the diet during the promotion/progression stage significantly suppressed the incidence and multiplicity of noninvasive adenocarcinomas and also strongly inhibited the multiplicity of invasive adenocarcinomas of the colon.
Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
The antiproliferative effects of curcumin against several breast tumor cell lines, including hormone-dependent, hormone-independent, and multidrug lines, were studied. Curcumin preferentially arrested cells in the G2/S phase of the cell cycle. Curcumin-induced cell death was due neither to apoptosis nor to a significant change in the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-2 p53, cyclin B and transglutaminase.
Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of dietary curcumin on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis and the modulating effect of curcumin on the colonic mucosal and tumor phospholipase A2, phospholipase C gamma 1, lipoxygenase, and cyclooxygenase activities in male F344 rats. The results indicate that the administration of curcumin significantly inhibited incidence of colon adenocarcinomas (p<0.004) and the multiplicity of invasive, non-invasive, and total adenocarcinomas. Curcumin also significantly suppressed the colon tumor volume by more than 57% compared to the control diet. Although the precise mechanism by which curcumin inhibits colon tumorigenesis remains to be elucidated, it is likely that the chemopreventive action, at least in part, may be related to the modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism.
References
1. Leung AY, et al. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: Wiley; 1996.
2. Blumenthal, et al. Herbal Medicine, Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council; 2000.
3. Somasundaram S, et al. Dietary curcumin inhibits chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in models of human breast cancer. Cancer Res 2002;62:3868-75.
4. Asai A, Miyazawa T. Occurrence of orally administered curcuminoid as glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate conjugates in rat plasma. Life Sci 2000;67:2785-93.
5. Ravindranath V, Chandrasekhara N. Absorption and tissue distribution of curcumin in rats. Toxicology 1980;16:259-65.
6. McGuffin M, et al. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Florida: CRC Press; 1997.
7. Brinker F. Herbal ContrCurcumin & Cancer
Also see commercial Turmeric Curcumin Supplements
Curcumin & Cancer - Clinical Summary
Derived from the rhizome and root. Turmeric is routinely used as a spice and coloring agent. Oral administration of turmeric is well tolerated, but bioavailability is relatively low (5) (15). Following absorption, turmeric is rapidly metabolized. In vitro and animal studies suggest anti-proliferative and preventative effects of turmeric against cancer (10) (11) (12) (13) (16) (17). Results from a pilot study indicate that turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (14). No significant adverse events have been reported. Patients with gastrointestinal disorders should not take curcumin. Recent animal studies indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer (3). More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. Data from an epidemiological study are suggestive of improved cognitive performance in elderly Asians who consumed turmeric in the form of curry powder (18).
Purported Uses of Curcumin
* Cancer prevention
* Infections
* Inflammation
* Kidney stones
* Stomach and intestinal gas
Mechanism of Action ot Curcumin
The mechanism of action is not fully understood. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and choleretic action. Anti-inflammatory action may be due to leukotriene inhibition. Its curcuminoids (curcumin) and volatile oil are both partly responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuminoids induce glutathione S-transferase and are potent inhibitors of cytochrome P450. Turmeric acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. It also inhibits activation of NF-kB4, c-jun/AP-1 function, and activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. In vitro and animal models of breast cancer show turmeric may inhibit chemotherapy-induced apoptosis via inhibition of the JNK pathway and reactive oxygen species generation. The isolated constituent alpha r-turmerone has been shown to arrest the reproduction and slaughterer activity of human lymphocytes, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory action. Curcumin is more effective by parenteral injection than by oral ingestion. Curcumin has displayed antitumor activity and may be protective against some cancers, such as colon cancer. In laboratory tests, curcumin's antitumor actions appear to be due to interactions with arachidonate metabolism and its in vivo antiangiogenic properties.
Pharmacokinetics of Curcumin
Bioavailability of curcumin is approximately 60-65% following oral administration. Metabolism is primarily via glucuronidation to glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate metabolites (4). In vitro studies indicate inhibition of Cytochrome P450 1A1. Excretion of parent compound is primarily in the feces with metabolites present in the urine (5).
Warnings of Curcumin
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
Contraindications of Curcumin
Patients with bile duct obstruction, gallstones, and GI disorders (including stomach ulcers and hyperacidity disorders) should not take curcumin(6).
Adverse Reactions of Curcumin
None known
Herb-Drug Interactions
Reserpine: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Indomethacin: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Anticoagulants / Antiplatelets: Turmeric may increase risk of bleeding (7).
Camptothecin: Turmeric inhibits camptothecin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Mechlorethamine: Turmeric inhibits mechlorethamine-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Doxorubicin: Turmeric inhibits doxorubicin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Cyclophosphamide: Dietary turmeric inhibits cyclophosphamide-induced tumor regression in animal studies (3).
Literature Summary and Critique
Human data:
James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
A randomized study of 38 patients to either high-dose or low-dose turmeric powder. Following 8 weeks of treatment, there was no demonstrated effect of turmeric on HIV viral load. A small increase in CD4 cells in the high-dose group and a consistent fall of CD4 cells in the low-dose group were documented, but neither result was statistically significant. This report of an abstract presented at the third annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections demonstrated no efficacy of turmeric in treating HIV.
Animal / In vitro data:
Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
Curcumin has shown anti-carcinogenic activity in animals as indicated by its ability to block colon tumor initiation by azoxymethane and skin tumor promotion induced by phorbol ester TPA. Recently, curcumin has been considered by oncologists as a potential third-generation cancer chemopreventive agent, and clinical trials using it have been carried out in several laboratories. Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory activity and is a potent inhibitor of reactive oxygen-generating enzymes, such as lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase, xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Curcumin is also a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C and EGF-receptor tyrosine kinase. It is proposed that curcumin may suppress tumor promotion by blocking signal transduction pathways in the target cells.
Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
This study investigated the effect of curcumin on Adriamycin (ADR) nephrosis in rats. The results indicate that ADR-induced kidney injury was remarkably well prevented by treatment with curcumin. Treatment with curcumin markedly protected against ADR-induced proteinuria, albuminuria, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipidemia. Curcumin restored renal function in ADR rats, as judged by the increase in GFR. The data also demonstrate that curcumin protects against ADR-induced renal injury by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing kidney glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase activity. This suggests that administration of curcumin is a promising approach in the treatment of nephrosis caused by ADR.
Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of curcumin when administered (late in the premalignant stage) during the promotion/progression stage of colon carcinogenesis in male F344 rats. The study also monitored the modulating effect of this agent on apoptosis in the tumors. The results showed that the administration of 0.2% curcumin during both the initiation and post initiation periods significantly inhibited colon tumorigenesis. In addition, administration of 0.2% and of 0.6% synthetic curcumin in the diet during the promotion/progression stage significantly suppressed the incidence and multiplicity of noninvasive adenocarcinomas and also strongly inhibited the multiplicity of invasive adenocarcinomas of the colon.
Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
The antiproliferative effects of curcumin against several breast tumor cell lines, including hormone-dependent, hormone-independent, and multidrug lines, were studied. Curcumin preferentially arrested cells in the G2/S phase of the cell cycle. Curcumin-induced cell death was due neither to apoptosis nor to a significant change in the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-2 p53, cyclin B and transglutaminase.
Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of dietary curcumin on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis and the modulating effect of curcumin on the colonic mucosal and tumor phospholipase A2, phospholipase C gamma 1, lipoxygenase, and cyclooxygenase activities in male F344 rats. The results indicate that the administration of curcumin significantly inhibited incidence of colon adenocarcinomas (p<0.004) and the multiplicity of invasive, non-invasive, and total adenocarcinomas. Curcumin also significantly suppressed the colon tumor volume by more than 57% compared to the control diet. Although the precise mechanism by which curcumin inhibits colon tumorigenesis remains to be elucidated, it is likely that the chemopreventive action, at least in part, may be related to the modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism.
References
1. Leung AY, et al. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: Wiley; 1996.
2. Blumenthal, et al. Herbal Medicine, Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council; 2000.
3. Somasundaram S, et al. Dietary curcumin inhibits chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in models of human breast cancer. Cancer Res 2002;62:3868-75.
4. Asai A, Miyazawa T. Occurrence of orally administered curcuminoid as glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate conjugates in rat plasma. Life Sci 2000;67:2785-93.
5. Ravindranath V, Chandrasekhara N. Absorption and tissue distribution of curcumin in rats. Toxicology 1980;16:259-65.
6. McGuffin M, et al. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Florida: CRC Press; 1997.
7. Brinker F. Herbal Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
8. James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
9. Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
10. Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
11. Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
12. Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
13. Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
14. Bundy R, et al. Turmeric extract may improve irritable bowel syndrome symptomology in otherwise healthy adults: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Dec;10(6):1015-8.
15. Garcea G, et al. Consumption of the putative chemopreventive agent curcumin by cancer patients: assessment of curcumin levels in the colorectum and their pharmacodynamic consequences. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers aindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
8. James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
9. Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
10. Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
11. Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
12. Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
13. Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
14. Bundy R, et al. Turmeric extract may improve irritable bowel syndrome symptomology in otherwise healthy adults: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Dec;10(6):1015-8.
15. Garcea G, et al. Consumption of the putative chemopreventive agent curcumin by cancer patients: assessment of curcumin levels in the colorectum and their pharmacodynamic consequences. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers0 -
I've heard this before.pepebcn said:Take a look to contraindications Jeremy.
Curcumin & Cancer
Also see commercial Turmeric Curcumin Supplements
Curcumin & Cancer - Clinical Summary
Derived from the rhizome and root. Turmeric is routinely used as a spice and coloring agent. Oral administration of turmeric is well tolerated, but bioavailability is relatively low (5) (15). Following absorption, turmeric is rapidly metabolized. In vitro and animal studies suggest anti-proliferative and preventative effects of turmeric against cancer (10) (11) (12) (13) (16) (17). Results from a pilot study indicate that turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (14). No significant adverse events have been reported. Patients with gastrointestinal disorders should not take curcumin. Recent animal studies indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer (3). More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. Data from an epidemiological study are suggestive of improved cognitive performance in elderly Asians who consumed turmeric in the form of curry powder (18).
Purported Uses of Curcumin
* Cancer prevention
* Infections
* Inflammation
* Kidney stones
* Stomach and intestinal gas
Mechanism of Action ot Curcumin
The mechanism of action is not fully understood. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and choleretic action. Anti-inflammatory action may be due to leukotriene inhibition. Its curcuminoids (curcumin) and volatile oil are both partly responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuminoids induce glutathione S-transferase and are potent inhibitors of cytochrome P450. Turmeric acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. It also inhibits activation of NF-kB4, c-jun/AP-1 function, and activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. In vitro and animal models of breast cancer show turmeric may inhibit chemotherapy-induced apoptosis via inhibition of the JNK pathway and reactive oxygen species generation. The isolated constituent alpha r-turmerone has been shown to arrest the reproduction and slaughterer activity of human lymphocytes, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory action. Curcumin is more effective by parenteral injection than by oral ingestion. Curcumin has displayed antitumor activity and may be protective against some cancers, such as colon cancer. In laboratory tests, curcumin's antitumor actions appear to be due to interactions with arachidonate metabolism and its in vivo antiangiogenic properties.
Pharmacokinetics of Curcumin
Bioavailability of curcumin is approximately 60-65% following oral administration. Metabolism is primarily via glucuronidation to glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate metabolites (4). In vitro studies indicate inhibition of Cytochrome P450 1A1. Excretion of parent compound is primarily in the feces with metabolites present in the urine (5).
Warnings of Curcumin
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
Contraindications of Curcumin
Patients with bile duct obstruction, gallstones, and GI disorders (including stomach ulcers and hyperacidity disorders) should not take curcumin(6).
Adverse Reactions of Curcumin
None known
Herb-Drug Interactions
Reserpine: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Indomethacin: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Anticoagulants / Antiplatelets: Turmeric may increase risk of bleeding (7).
Camptothecin: Turmeric inhibits camptothecin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Mechlorethamine: Turmeric inhibits mechlorethamine-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Doxorubicin: Turmeric inhibits doxorubicin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Cyclophosphamide: Dietary turmeric inhibits cyclophosphamide-induced tumor regression in animal studies (3).
Literature Summary and Critique
Human data:
James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
A randomized study of 38 patients to either high-dose or low-dose turmeric powder. Following 8 weeks of treatment, there was no demonstrated effect of turmeric on HIV viral load. A small increase in CD4 cells in the high-dose group and a consistent fall of CD4 cells in the low-dose group were documented, but neither result was statistically significant. This report of an abstract presented at the third annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections demonstrated no efficacy of turmeric in treating HIV.
Animal / In vitro data:
Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
Curcumin has shown anti-carcinogenic activity in animals as indicated by its ability to block colon tumor initiation by azoxymethane and skin tumor promotion induced by phorbol ester TPA. Recently, curcumin has been considered by oncologists as a potential third-generation cancer chemopreventive agent, and clinical trials using it have been carried out in several laboratories. Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory activity and is a potent inhibitor of reactive oxygen-generating enzymes, such as lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase, xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Curcumin is also a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C and EGF-receptor tyrosine kinase. It is proposed that curcumin may suppress tumor promotion by blocking signal transduction pathways in the target cells.
Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
This study investigated the effect of curcumin on Adriamycin (ADR) nephrosis in rats. The results indicate that ADR-induced kidney injury was remarkably well prevented by treatment with curcumin. Treatment with curcumin markedly protected against ADR-induced proteinuria, albuminuria, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipidemia. Curcumin restored renal function in ADR rats, as judged by the increase in GFR. The data also demonstrate that curcumin protects against ADR-induced renal injury by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing kidney glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase activity. This suggests that administration of curcumin is a promising approach in the treatment of nephrosis caused by ADR.
Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of curcumin when administered (late in the premalignant stage) during the promotion/progression stage of colon carcinogenesis in male F344 rats. The study also monitored the modulating effect of this agent on apoptosis in the tumors. The results showed that the administration of 0.2% curcumin during both the initiation and post initiation periods significantly inhibited colon tumorigenesis. In addition, administration of 0.2% and of 0.6% synthetic curcumin in the diet during the promotion/progression stage significantly suppressed the incidence and multiplicity of noninvasive adenocarcinomas and also strongly inhibited the multiplicity of invasive adenocarcinomas of the colon.
Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
The antiproliferative effects of curcumin against several breast tumor cell lines, including hormone-dependent, hormone-independent, and multidrug lines, were studied. Curcumin preferentially arrested cells in the G2/S phase of the cell cycle. Curcumin-induced cell death was due neither to apoptosis nor to a significant change in the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-2 p53, cyclin B and transglutaminase.
Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of dietary curcumin on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis and the modulating effect of curcumin on the colonic mucosal and tumor phospholipase A2, phospholipase C gamma 1, lipoxygenase, and cyclooxygenase activities in male F344 rats. The results indicate that the administration of curcumin significantly inhibited incidence of colon adenocarcinomas (p<0.004) and the multiplicity of invasive, non-invasive, and total adenocarcinomas. Curcumin also significantly suppressed the colon tumor volume by more than 57% compared to the control diet. Although the precise mechanism by which curcumin inhibits colon tumorigenesis remains to be elucidated, it is likely that the chemopreventive action, at least in part, may be related to the modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism.
References
1. Leung AY, et al. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: Wiley; 1996.
2. Blumenthal, et al. Herbal Medicine, Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council; 2000.
3. Somasundaram S, et al. Dietary curcumin inhibits chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in models of human breast cancer. Cancer Res 2002;62:3868-75.
4. Asai A, Miyazawa T. Occurrence of orally administered curcuminoid as glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate conjugates in rat plasma. Life Sci 2000;67:2785-93.
5. Ravindranath V, Chandrasekhara N. Absorption and tissue distribution of curcumin in rats. Toxicology 1980;16:259-65.
6. McGuffin M, et al. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Florida: CRC Press; 1997.
7. Brinker F. Herbal ContrCurcumin & Cancer
Also see commercial Turmeric Curcumin Supplements
Curcumin & Cancer - Clinical Summary
Derived from the rhizome and root. Turmeric is routinely used as a spice and coloring agent. Oral administration of turmeric is well tolerated, but bioavailability is relatively low (5) (15). Following absorption, turmeric is rapidly metabolized. In vitro and animal studies suggest anti-proliferative and preventative effects of turmeric against cancer (10) (11) (12) (13) (16) (17). Results from a pilot study indicate that turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (14). No significant adverse events have been reported. Patients with gastrointestinal disorders should not take curcumin. Recent animal studies indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer (3). More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. Data from an epidemiological study are suggestive of improved cognitive performance in elderly Asians who consumed turmeric in the form of curry powder (18).
Purported Uses of Curcumin
* Cancer prevention
* Infections
* Inflammation
* Kidney stones
* Stomach and intestinal gas
Mechanism of Action ot Curcumin
The mechanism of action is not fully understood. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and choleretic action. Anti-inflammatory action may be due to leukotriene inhibition. Its curcuminoids (curcumin) and volatile oil are both partly responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuminoids induce glutathione S-transferase and are potent inhibitors of cytochrome P450. Turmeric acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. It also inhibits activation of NF-kB4, c-jun/AP-1 function, and activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. In vitro and animal models of breast cancer show turmeric may inhibit chemotherapy-induced apoptosis via inhibition of the JNK pathway and reactive oxygen species generation. The isolated constituent alpha r-turmerone has been shown to arrest the reproduction and slaughterer activity of human lymphocytes, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory action. Curcumin is more effective by parenteral injection than by oral ingestion. Curcumin has displayed antitumor activity and may be protective against some cancers, such as colon cancer. In laboratory tests, curcumin's antitumor actions appear to be due to interactions with arachidonate metabolism and its in vivo antiangiogenic properties.
Pharmacokinetics of Curcumin
Bioavailability of curcumin is approximately 60-65% following oral administration. Metabolism is primarily via glucuronidation to glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate metabolites (4). In vitro studies indicate inhibition of Cytochrome P450 1A1. Excretion of parent compound is primarily in the feces with metabolites present in the urine (5).
Warnings of Curcumin
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
Contraindications of Curcumin
Patients with bile duct obstruction, gallstones, and GI disorders (including stomach ulcers and hyperacidity disorders) should not take curcumin(6).
Adverse Reactions of Curcumin
None known
Herb-Drug Interactions
Reserpine: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Indomethacin: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Anticoagulants / Antiplatelets: Turmeric may increase risk of bleeding (7).
Camptothecin: Turmeric inhibits camptothecin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Mechlorethamine: Turmeric inhibits mechlorethamine-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Doxorubicin: Turmeric inhibits doxorubicin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Cyclophosphamide: Dietary turmeric inhibits cyclophosphamide-induced tumor regression in animal studies (3).
Literature Summary and Critique
Human data:
James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
A randomized study of 38 patients to either high-dose or low-dose turmeric powder. Following 8 weeks of treatment, there was no demonstrated effect of turmeric on HIV viral load. A small increase in CD4 cells in the high-dose group and a consistent fall of CD4 cells in the low-dose group were documented, but neither result was statistically significant. This report of an abstract presented at the third annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections demonstrated no efficacy of turmeric in treating HIV.
Animal / In vitro data:
Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
Curcumin has shown anti-carcinogenic activity in animals as indicated by its ability to block colon tumor initiation by azoxymethane and skin tumor promotion induced by phorbol ester TPA. Recently, curcumin has been considered by oncologists as a potential third-generation cancer chemopreventive agent, and clinical trials using it have been carried out in several laboratories. Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory activity and is a potent inhibitor of reactive oxygen-generating enzymes, such as lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase, xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Curcumin is also a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C and EGF-receptor tyrosine kinase. It is proposed that curcumin may suppress tumor promotion by blocking signal transduction pathways in the target cells.
Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
This study investigated the effect of curcumin on Adriamycin (ADR) nephrosis in rats. The results indicate that ADR-induced kidney injury was remarkably well prevented by treatment with curcumin. Treatment with curcumin markedly protected against ADR-induced proteinuria, albuminuria, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipidemia. Curcumin restored renal function in ADR rats, as judged by the increase in GFR. The data also demonstrate that curcumin protects against ADR-induced renal injury by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing kidney glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase activity. This suggests that administration of curcumin is a promising approach in the treatment of nephrosis caused by ADR.
Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of curcumin when administered (late in the premalignant stage) during the promotion/progression stage of colon carcinogenesis in male F344 rats. The study also monitored the modulating effect of this agent on apoptosis in the tumors. The results showed that the administration of 0.2% curcumin during both the initiation and post initiation periods significantly inhibited colon tumorigenesis. In addition, administration of 0.2% and of 0.6% synthetic curcumin in the diet during the promotion/progression stage significantly suppressed the incidence and multiplicity of noninvasive adenocarcinomas and also strongly inhibited the multiplicity of invasive adenocarcinomas of the colon.
Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
The antiproliferative effects of curcumin against several breast tumor cell lines, including hormone-dependent, hormone-independent, and multidrug lines, were studied. Curcumin preferentially arrested cells in the G2/S phase of the cell cycle. Curcumin-induced cell death was due neither to apoptosis nor to a significant change in the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-2 p53, cyclin B and transglutaminase.
Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of dietary curcumin on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis and the modulating effect of curcumin on the colonic mucosal and tumor phospholipase A2, phospholipase C gamma 1, lipoxygenase, and cyclooxygenase activities in male F344 rats. The results indicate that the administration of curcumin significantly inhibited incidence of colon adenocarcinomas (p<0.004) and the multiplicity of invasive, non-invasive, and total adenocarcinomas. Curcumin also significantly suppressed the colon tumor volume by more than 57% compared to the control diet. Although the precise mechanism by which curcumin inhibits colon tumorigenesis remains to be elucidated, it is likely that the chemopreventive action, at least in part, may be related to the modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism.
References
1. Leung AY, et al. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: Wiley; 1996.
2. Blumenthal, et al. Herbal Medicine, Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council; 2000.
3. Somasundaram S, et al. Dietary curcumin inhibits chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in models of human breast cancer. Cancer Res 2002;62:3868-75.
4. Asai A, Miyazawa T. Occurrence of orally administered curcuminoid as glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate conjugates in rat plasma. Life Sci 2000;67:2785-93.
5. Ravindranath V, Chandrasekhara N. Absorption and tissue distribution of curcumin in rats. Toxicology 1980;16:259-65.
6. McGuffin M, et al. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Florida: CRC Press; 1997.
7. Brinker F. Herbal Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
8. James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
9. Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
10. Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
11. Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
12. Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
13. Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
14. Bundy R, et al. Turmeric extract may improve irritable bowel syndrome symptomology in otherwise healthy adults: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Dec;10(6):1015-8.
15. Garcea G, et al. Consumption of the putative chemopreventive agent curcumin by cancer patients: assessment of curcumin levels in the colorectum and their pharmacodynamic consequences. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers aindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
8. James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
9. Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
10. Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
11. Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
12. Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
13. Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
14. Bundy R, et al. Turmeric extract may improve irritable bowel syndrome symptomology in otherwise healthy adults: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Dec;10(6):1015-8.
15. Garcea G, et al. Consumption of the putative chemopreventive agent curcumin by cancer patients: assessment of curcumin levels in the colorectum and their pharmacodynamic consequences. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers</p>
Thanks for the response. I am quite familiar with the Sloan-Kettering site. Reference 6 (McGuffin M, et al. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Florida: CRC Press; 1997.) suggests that curcumin is contraindicated in cases of blockage of bile ducts. I don't know what studies this handbook from 1997 references since I don't have access to the source. I have read many times on web sites selling herbal prodcuts that curcumin is contraindicated in the case of gall bladder disease or bile duct blockages, but they all seem to reference this handbook. I just don't believe it. My hepatologist has never mentioned the need to avoid curcumin even though we have discussed many supplements, including curcumin.
The PSC studies in mice and other studies on the protective effects of curcumin are very recent, but perhaps differ in that the whole point of the curcumin is to prevent the formation of strictures, blockages of bile ducts and other liver damage.
In any event, blockages in the bile ducts make you quite ill (jaundiced, feverish, itching, ....) so you would probably know about the blockage and would seek more dramatic treatment (stents, surgery, ...) than taking herbal supplements.
Best,
Jeremy0 -
i never knew i was walking with such a clever mindpepebcn said:Take a look to contraindications Jeremy.
Curcumin & Cancer
Also see commercial Turmeric Curcumin Supplements
Curcumin & Cancer - Clinical Summary
Derived from the rhizome and root. Turmeric is routinely used as a spice and coloring agent. Oral administration of turmeric is well tolerated, but bioavailability is relatively low (5) (15). Following absorption, turmeric is rapidly metabolized. In vitro and animal studies suggest anti-proliferative and preventative effects of turmeric against cancer (10) (11) (12) (13) (16) (17). Results from a pilot study indicate that turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (14). No significant adverse events have been reported. Patients with gastrointestinal disorders should not take curcumin. Recent animal studies indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer (3). More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. Data from an epidemiological study are suggestive of improved cognitive performance in elderly Asians who consumed turmeric in the form of curry powder (18).
Purported Uses of Curcumin
* Cancer prevention
* Infections
* Inflammation
* Kidney stones
* Stomach and intestinal gas
Mechanism of Action ot Curcumin
The mechanism of action is not fully understood. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and choleretic action. Anti-inflammatory action may be due to leukotriene inhibition. Its curcuminoids (curcumin) and volatile oil are both partly responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuminoids induce glutathione S-transferase and are potent inhibitors of cytochrome P450. Turmeric acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. It also inhibits activation of NF-kB4, c-jun/AP-1 function, and activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. In vitro and animal models of breast cancer show turmeric may inhibit chemotherapy-induced apoptosis via inhibition of the JNK pathway and reactive oxygen species generation. The isolated constituent alpha r-turmerone has been shown to arrest the reproduction and slaughterer activity of human lymphocytes, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory action. Curcumin is more effective by parenteral injection than by oral ingestion. Curcumin has displayed antitumor activity and may be protective against some cancers, such as colon cancer. In laboratory tests, curcumin's antitumor actions appear to be due to interactions with arachidonate metabolism and its in vivo antiangiogenic properties.
Pharmacokinetics of Curcumin
Bioavailability of curcumin is approximately 60-65% following oral administration. Metabolism is primarily via glucuronidation to glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate metabolites (4). In vitro studies indicate inhibition of Cytochrome P450 1A1. Excretion of parent compound is primarily in the feces with metabolites present in the urine (5).
Warnings of Curcumin
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
Contraindications of Curcumin
Patients with bile duct obstruction, gallstones, and GI disorders (including stomach ulcers and hyperacidity disorders) should not take curcumin(6).
Adverse Reactions of Curcumin
None known
Herb-Drug Interactions
Reserpine: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Indomethacin: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Anticoagulants / Antiplatelets: Turmeric may increase risk of bleeding (7).
Camptothecin: Turmeric inhibits camptothecin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Mechlorethamine: Turmeric inhibits mechlorethamine-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Doxorubicin: Turmeric inhibits doxorubicin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Cyclophosphamide: Dietary turmeric inhibits cyclophosphamide-induced tumor regression in animal studies (3).
Literature Summary and Critique
Human data:
James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
A randomized study of 38 patients to either high-dose or low-dose turmeric powder. Following 8 weeks of treatment, there was no demonstrated effect of turmeric on HIV viral load. A small increase in CD4 cells in the high-dose group and a consistent fall of CD4 cells in the low-dose group were documented, but neither result was statistically significant. This report of an abstract presented at the third annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections demonstrated no efficacy of turmeric in treating HIV.
Animal / In vitro data:
Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
Curcumin has shown anti-carcinogenic activity in animals as indicated by its ability to block colon tumor initiation by azoxymethane and skin tumor promotion induced by phorbol ester TPA. Recently, curcumin has been considered by oncologists as a potential third-generation cancer chemopreventive agent, and clinical trials using it have been carried out in several laboratories. Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory activity and is a potent inhibitor of reactive oxygen-generating enzymes, such as lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase, xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Curcumin is also a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C and EGF-receptor tyrosine kinase. It is proposed that curcumin may suppress tumor promotion by blocking signal transduction pathways in the target cells.
Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
This study investigated the effect of curcumin on Adriamycin (ADR) nephrosis in rats. The results indicate that ADR-induced kidney injury was remarkably well prevented by treatment with curcumin. Treatment with curcumin markedly protected against ADR-induced proteinuria, albuminuria, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipidemia. Curcumin restored renal function in ADR rats, as judged by the increase in GFR. The data also demonstrate that curcumin protects against ADR-induced renal injury by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing kidney glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase activity. This suggests that administration of curcumin is a promising approach in the treatment of nephrosis caused by ADR.
Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of curcumin when administered (late in the premalignant stage) during the promotion/progression stage of colon carcinogenesis in male F344 rats. The study also monitored the modulating effect of this agent on apoptosis in the tumors. The results showed that the administration of 0.2% curcumin during both the initiation and post initiation periods significantly inhibited colon tumorigenesis. In addition, administration of 0.2% and of 0.6% synthetic curcumin in the diet during the promotion/progression stage significantly suppressed the incidence and multiplicity of noninvasive adenocarcinomas and also strongly inhibited the multiplicity of invasive adenocarcinomas of the colon.
Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
The antiproliferative effects of curcumin against several breast tumor cell lines, including hormone-dependent, hormone-independent, and multidrug lines, were studied. Curcumin preferentially arrested cells in the G2/S phase of the cell cycle. Curcumin-induced cell death was due neither to apoptosis nor to a significant change in the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-2 p53, cyclin B and transglutaminase.
Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of dietary curcumin on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis and the modulating effect of curcumin on the colonic mucosal and tumor phospholipase A2, phospholipase C gamma 1, lipoxygenase, and cyclooxygenase activities in male F344 rats. The results indicate that the administration of curcumin significantly inhibited incidence of colon adenocarcinomas (p<0.004) and the multiplicity of invasive, non-invasive, and total adenocarcinomas. Curcumin also significantly suppressed the colon tumor volume by more than 57% compared to the control diet. Although the precise mechanism by which curcumin inhibits colon tumorigenesis remains to be elucidated, it is likely that the chemopreventive action, at least in part, may be related to the modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism.
References
1. Leung AY, et al. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: Wiley; 1996.
2. Blumenthal, et al. Herbal Medicine, Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council; 2000.
3. Somasundaram S, et al. Dietary curcumin inhibits chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in models of human breast cancer. Cancer Res 2002;62:3868-75.
4. Asai A, Miyazawa T. Occurrence of orally administered curcuminoid as glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate conjugates in rat plasma. Life Sci 2000;67:2785-93.
5. Ravindranath V, Chandrasekhara N. Absorption and tissue distribution of curcumin in rats. Toxicology 1980;16:259-65.
6. McGuffin M, et al. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Florida: CRC Press; 1997.
7. Brinker F. Herbal ContrCurcumin & Cancer
Also see commercial Turmeric Curcumin Supplements
Curcumin & Cancer - Clinical Summary
Derived from the rhizome and root. Turmeric is routinely used as a spice and coloring agent. Oral administration of turmeric is well tolerated, but bioavailability is relatively low (5) (15). Following absorption, turmeric is rapidly metabolized. In vitro and animal studies suggest anti-proliferative and preventative effects of turmeric against cancer (10) (11) (12) (13) (16) (17). Results from a pilot study indicate that turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (14). No significant adverse events have been reported. Patients with gastrointestinal disorders should not take curcumin. Recent animal studies indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer (3). More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. Data from an epidemiological study are suggestive of improved cognitive performance in elderly Asians who consumed turmeric in the form of curry powder (18).
Purported Uses of Curcumin
* Cancer prevention
* Infections
* Inflammation
* Kidney stones
* Stomach and intestinal gas
Mechanism of Action ot Curcumin
The mechanism of action is not fully understood. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and choleretic action. Anti-inflammatory action may be due to leukotriene inhibition. Its curcuminoids (curcumin) and volatile oil are both partly responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuminoids induce glutathione S-transferase and are potent inhibitors of cytochrome P450. Turmeric acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. It also inhibits activation of NF-kB4, c-jun/AP-1 function, and activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. In vitro and animal models of breast cancer show turmeric may inhibit chemotherapy-induced apoptosis via inhibition of the JNK pathway and reactive oxygen species generation. The isolated constituent alpha r-turmerone has been shown to arrest the reproduction and slaughterer activity of human lymphocytes, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory action. Curcumin is more effective by parenteral injection than by oral ingestion. Curcumin has displayed antitumor activity and may be protective against some cancers, such as colon cancer. In laboratory tests, curcumin's antitumor actions appear to be due to interactions with arachidonate metabolism and its in vivo antiangiogenic properties.
Pharmacokinetics of Curcumin
Bioavailability of curcumin is approximately 60-65% following oral administration. Metabolism is primarily via glucuronidation to glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate metabolites (4). In vitro studies indicate inhibition of Cytochrome P450 1A1. Excretion of parent compound is primarily in the feces with metabolites present in the urine (5).
Warnings of Curcumin
Recent laboratory findings indicate that dietary turmeric may inhibit the anti-tumor action of chemotherapeutic agents such as cyclophosphamide in treating breast cancer. More research is necessary, but it may be advisable for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to limit intake of turmeric and turmeric-containing foods. (3)
Contraindications of Curcumin
Patients with bile duct obstruction, gallstones, and GI disorders (including stomach ulcers and hyperacidity disorders) should not take curcumin(6).
Adverse Reactions of Curcumin
None known
Herb-Drug Interactions
Reserpine: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Indomethacin: Turmeric may reduce efficacy (7).
Anticoagulants / Antiplatelets: Turmeric may increase risk of bleeding (7).
Camptothecin: Turmeric inhibits camptothecin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Mechlorethamine: Turmeric inhibits mechlorethamine-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Doxorubicin: Turmeric inhibits doxorubicin-induced apoptosis of breast cancer cell lines in vitro (3).
Cyclophosphamide: Dietary turmeric inhibits cyclophosphamide-induced tumor regression in animal studies (3).
Literature Summary and Critique
Human data:
James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
A randomized study of 38 patients to either high-dose or low-dose turmeric powder. Following 8 weeks of treatment, there was no demonstrated effect of turmeric on HIV viral load. A small increase in CD4 cells in the high-dose group and a consistent fall of CD4 cells in the low-dose group were documented, but neither result was statistically significant. This report of an abstract presented at the third annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections demonstrated no efficacy of turmeric in treating HIV.
Animal / In vitro data:
Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
Curcumin has shown anti-carcinogenic activity in animals as indicated by its ability to block colon tumor initiation by azoxymethane and skin tumor promotion induced by phorbol ester TPA. Recently, curcumin has been considered by oncologists as a potential third-generation cancer chemopreventive agent, and clinical trials using it have been carried out in several laboratories. Curcumin possesses anti-inflammatory activity and is a potent inhibitor of reactive oxygen-generating enzymes, such as lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase, xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Curcumin is also a potent inhibitor of protein kinase C and EGF-receptor tyrosine kinase. It is proposed that curcumin may suppress tumor promotion by blocking signal transduction pathways in the target cells.
Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
This study investigated the effect of curcumin on Adriamycin (ADR) nephrosis in rats. The results indicate that ADR-induced kidney injury was remarkably well prevented by treatment with curcumin. Treatment with curcumin markedly protected against ADR-induced proteinuria, albuminuria, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipidemia. Curcumin restored renal function in ADR rats, as judged by the increase in GFR. The data also demonstrate that curcumin protects against ADR-induced renal injury by suppressing oxidative stress and increasing kidney glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase activity. This suggests that administration of curcumin is a promising approach in the treatment of nephrosis caused by ADR.
Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of curcumin when administered (late in the premalignant stage) during the promotion/progression stage of colon carcinogenesis in male F344 rats. The study also monitored the modulating effect of this agent on apoptosis in the tumors. The results showed that the administration of 0.2% curcumin during both the initiation and post initiation periods significantly inhibited colon tumorigenesis. In addition, administration of 0.2% and of 0.6% synthetic curcumin in the diet during the promotion/progression stage significantly suppressed the incidence and multiplicity of noninvasive adenocarcinomas and also strongly inhibited the multiplicity of invasive adenocarcinomas of the colon.
Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
The antiproliferative effects of curcumin against several breast tumor cell lines, including hormone-dependent, hormone-independent, and multidrug lines, were studied. Curcumin preferentially arrested cells in the G2/S phase of the cell cycle. Curcumin-induced cell death was due neither to apoptosis nor to a significant change in the expression of apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-2 p53, cyclin B and transglutaminase.
Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
This study was designed to investigate the chemopreventive action of dietary curcumin on azoxymethane-induced colon carcinogenesis and the modulating effect of curcumin on the colonic mucosal and tumor phospholipase A2, phospholipase C gamma 1, lipoxygenase, and cyclooxygenase activities in male F344 rats. The results indicate that the administration of curcumin significantly inhibited incidence of colon adenocarcinomas (p<0.004) and the multiplicity of invasive, non-invasive, and total adenocarcinomas. Curcumin also significantly suppressed the colon tumor volume by more than 57% compared to the control diet. Although the precise mechanism by which curcumin inhibits colon tumorigenesis remains to be elucidated, it is likely that the chemopreventive action, at least in part, may be related to the modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism.
References
1. Leung AY, et al. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York: Wiley; 1996.
2. Blumenthal, et al. Herbal Medicine, Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council; 2000.
3. Somasundaram S, et al. Dietary curcumin inhibits chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in models of human breast cancer. Cancer Res 2002;62:3868-75.
4. Asai A, Miyazawa T. Occurrence of orally administered curcuminoid as glucuronide and glucuronide/sulfate conjugates in rat plasma. Life Sci 2000;67:2785-93.
5. Ravindranath V, Chandrasekhara N. Absorption and tissue distribution of curcumin in rats. Toxicology 1980;16:259-65.
6. McGuffin M, et al. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Florida: CRC Press; 1997.
7. Brinker F. Herbal Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
8. James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
9. Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
10. Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
11. Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
12. Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
13. Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
14. Bundy R, et al. Turmeric extract may improve irritable bowel syndrome symptomology in otherwise healthy adults: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Dec;10(6):1015-8.
15. Garcea G, et al. Consumption of the putative chemopreventive agent curcumin by cancer patients: assessment of curcumin levels in the colorectum and their pharmacodynamic consequences. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers aindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
8. James J. Curcumin: clinical trial finds no antiviral effect. AIDS Treat News 1996;242:1.
9. Li JK, et al. Mechanisms of cancer chemoprevention by curcumin. Proc Natl Sci Counc Repub China B 2001;25:59-66.
10. Venkatesan N. Curcumin prevents adriamycin nephrotoxicity in rats. Br J Pharmacol 2000;129:231-4.
11. Kawamori T, et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999;59:597-601.
12. Mehta K, et al. Antiproliferative effect of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against human breast tumor cell lines. Anticancer Drugs 1997;8:470-81.
13. Rao CV, et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by dietary curcumin, a naturally occurring plant phenolic compound. Cancer Res 1995;55:259-66.
14. Bundy R, et al. Turmeric extract may improve irritable bowel syndrome symptomology in otherwise healthy adults: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2004 Dec;10(6):1015-8.
15. Garcea G, et al. Consumption of the putative chemopreventive agent curcumin by cancer patients: assessment of curcumin levels in the colorectum and their pharmacodynamic consequences. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers</p>
hi pepe and all,
As I mentioned earlier, I am waiting to finish folfox to start tumeric supplements.
Interest in the colon cancer prevention issue.
Note from anticancer is you need to have tumeric with pepper. just an fyi.
This paper indicates some forms of tumeric are more eaily absorbed.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19735646
Good luck to us all,
hugs,
Pete0
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