Research Highlights

Spice in Indian food fights Alzheimer's plaques in mice

December 31, 2004

Curcumin, a yellow pigment found in turmeric, one of the spices that make up curry powder, reduced the build-up of beta-amyloid proteins in the brains of elderly lab mice in studies at the Greater Los Angeles VA Healthcare System. Beta-amyloid plaques, or patches, are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers also found that curcumin could stop plaques in test-tube samples of human beta-amyloid. Curcumin is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and has long been used in Indian medicine. Scientists recently became interested in its potential to prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease after noting the low prevalence of dementia among the elderly in India, where curry is a staple.