Among the good news concerning well-being is that of a completely natural pill of origin that could soon be added to the ranks of the recommended prescriptions for depression .
Curcumin, an active compound derived from the Curcuma Longa plant, from which the spice used in cooking is derived, was tested in comparison with a traditional antidepressant, fluoxetine, in a study published in Phytotherapy Research .
A daily dose of curcumin of 1000 mg was only 2-5% less effective than the drug and, more importantly, did not show any adverse or unexpected side effects.
The author of the study Ajay Goel, PhD, director of epigenetics and cancer prevention at Baylor University Medical Center, says that synthetic options work well when considered as a single solution, but that side effects, toxicity and tolerance, they become real concerns when taking drugs for prolonged periods due to chronic symptoms.
Although curcumin has been considered as a promised alternative to antidepressants for years, this is the first time that researchers have been able to show and demonstrate the efficacy of the compound at work in humans, and its performance is very promising.
" From a clinical point of view, a 2% lower efficacy does not make any difference, " says Dr. Goel. "Curcumin has proven safe, even at high doses."
The benefits of curcumin
Researchers are still at work trying to pinpoint exactly how curcumin balances depressive symptoms but have some clues to follow. Curcumin is a natural inhibitor of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that at high levels is linked to depression and also blocks the release of substances known as cytokines, which can unbalance the delicate balance of the body's reactions to stress.
Although doctors will not prescribe this compound to patients any time soon, anyone can enjoy the health benefits of curcumin capsules that are available in most health food stores.
" It is a very strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound and is excellent as a daily health supplement, " says Dr. Goel. " People who do not have depressive symptoms can make this spice part of their daily diet. "
Read more: Benefits of Curcumin in the Treatment of Depression
Also read Curcuma, how much to take on a day >>
