Curcumin May Offer Potential to Mimic the Effects of Anti-Depressive Medications

(Newswire.net — March 22, 2017) Orlando, FL — While not many people are aware of the dangerous effects of depression, it is undeniable that it is one of the most common causes of suicide-related deaths in many areas around the world. The good news is that there are certain natural alternatives believed to be helpful for the condition.

Curcumin may offer the potential to mimic the effects of anti-depressive medications. Depression is a psychological condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as hectic life, low social support, unhealthy lifestyle, or the occurrence of medical conditions.

According to statistics, 15-20% of the global population is impacted by major depression. This psychological condition may develop from factors such as minor causes to undesirable life-changing events.

Depression is believed to be triggered by hormonal imbalance, genetic changes, challenging life situations, and medical problems. Some of the medical problems that may contribute to depression are diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or a stroke.

Individuals who suffer from depression usually experience other negative emotions. This may include guilt, frustration, anger, sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.

There are even depressed individuals who suffer from weight loss, tiredness, body aches, and changes in sleep pattern. While there are pharmaceutical drugs formulated to fight depression, sufferers should be vigilant about the side effects they may cause.

Curcumin is a phytochemical that can be found in turmeric. Turmeric is an ancient spice that is believed to offer a variety of health benefits. It may potentially contain antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic properties. 

Major depression has been linked with reduced concentration of some antioxidant enzymes. These enzymes work by offering protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are believed to damage proteins, fatty acids, and DNA.

It is important to remember that low levels of antioxidants have been associated with oxidative stress in the brain. The potential antioxidant properties of curcumin may be able to help fight oxidative damage, which has been linked with depression and other neurodegenerative disorders.

According to researchers, these possible antioxidant properties may increase antioxidant levels, scavenge free radicals, and repair the destruction caused by free radicals.

The protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) takes care of controlling nerve cell growth.  It also takes control of mood, learning, and long-term memory. Experts stressed that poor learning and depression have been linked with reduced BDNF levels.

Curcumin is found to have potential anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effects. It may be able to help inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. This powerful phytochemical may also have the potential to boost levels of BDNF as well as promote the creation of new nerve cells in the hippocampus.

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