Curcumin is a substance contained in Indian curry which – in turn – is an essential ingredient in traditional Indian Cusine.
Curcumin (1,7-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-2,5-dione) is the Indian herb used in curry powder and is a polyphenolic compound derived from turmeric, the dried rhizome of Curcuma longa L. (Fam. Zingiberaceae).1 Turmeric gives curry its yellow color and has been used as a food flavoring, preservative, and an herbal remedy for arthritis, cancer, and cardiac and other medical conditions.1
Memory and Brain Amyloid and Tau Effects of a Bioavailable Form of Curcumin in Non-Demented Adults: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled 18-Month Trial
Highlights
This is the first long-term (18 months) double-blind, placebo controlled trial of a bioavailable form of curcumin (Theracurmin® containing 90 mg of curcumin twice daily) in non-demented adults.
We found that daily oral Theracurmin led to significant memory and attention benefits.
FDDNP-PET scans performed pre- and post-treatment suggested that behavioral and cognitive benefits are associated with decreases in plaque and tangle accumulation in brain regions modulating mood and memory.
Curcumin’s cognitive benefits may stem from its anti-inflammatory and/or anti-amyloid brain effects.
Conclusions
Daily oral Theracurmin may lead to improved memory and attention in non-demented adults. The FDDNP-PET findings suggest that symptom benefits are associated with decreases in amyloid and tau accumulation in brain regions modulating mood and memory.
Source: Science Direct: The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry