Curcumin, an ingredient in the popular oriental spice turmeric, may be used to treat viral infections, reports the Journal of Biological Chemistry.
Prof. Aarthi Narayanan of George Mason University was often treated with turmeric for minor infections as a child.
Her current research has shown that the curcumin in this spice can also inhibit the dangerous viruses that cause Riff Valley fever from multiplying in cells. This acute disease, transmitted by mosquitoes, affects both humans and cattle, sheep and goats.
Further work by Narayanan will focus on the activity of 10 different versions of curcumin in order to be able to choose the most effective.
The researcher hopes that curcumin will also prove helpful in the fight against other viruses – including alphaviruses that cause Venezuelan equine meningitis. By inhibiting virus multiplication, it is possible to both improve the patient’s well-being and facilitate the action of the correct antiviral agents. (PAP)
At Medonet Market, you can now buy 500 mg turmeric extract – a dietary supplement with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.