Curcumin kills cancer cells - effect of main curry spice ingredient confirmed

An extract found in the bright yellow curry spice turmeric can kill off cancer cells, scientists have shown and suggested that that the findings can be used in further cancer treatment research.

Researchers from the Cork Cancer Research Centre (Ireland) reported curcumin started killing cancer cells within 24 hours of administration in laboratory tests. They investigated the phytochemical commonly found in the curry spice turmeric and its effects on esophageal cancer, which they said is increasingly prevalent and has poor survival rates.

Scientists have known for a long time that natural compounds have the potential to treat faulty cells that have become cancerous. The chemical - curcumin - has long been thought to have healing powers and is already being tested as a treatment for arthritis and even dementia. Dr Sharon McKenna, who run the study in Ireland, is of the opinion that their findings could help doctors find new treatments.

The scientists concluded curcumin represents “a promising anticancer agent for prevention and treatment of esophageal cancer.”

Each year around 500,000 people are killed by oesophageal cancer in the world. Tumors are especially lethal, and the rate of survival within five years ranges between 12 and 31%.