Scientists Reveal Turmeric May Contain Potential Antidepressant Compounds

(Newswire.net — May 6, 2017) Orlando, FL — Depression is a psychological condition that should not be overlooked or dismissed. There are anti-depressant medications available but there are also natural alternatives thought to have possible therapeutic effects that may help fight the condition.

Scientists reveal that turmeric may contain a potential antidepressant compound. Depression is characterized by the state of loss of interest, low mood, loss of appetite, feeling of low self-worth, fatigue, disturbed sleep, and poor concentration.

Depressed individuals often suffer from irritation, restlessness, or anxiety. There are even those who contemplate suicide due to the condition. Depression is usually considered to be one of the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

There are many factors that influence the development of depression, such as bereavement, genetics, medication side effects, hypertension, and abuse of substances.

Certain forms of depression include seasonal affective disorder (SAD), post-natal depression, and bipolar depression. One of the approaches in treating depression is to simply regulate the serotonin levels in the brain.

Researchers conducted a study over the span of 6 weeks to determine the potential effectiveness of curcumin in the treatment of MDD. Curcumin is a bioactive ingredient in turmeric, and is believed to be the source of many of the spice’s potential benefits. Curcumin is believed to contain anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antibiotic, antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-carcinogenic properties.

The study involved 60 individuals with MDD who were given doses of curcumin, a certain pharmaceutical drug, or a combination of both.

The most positive results came from the combination of curcumin with the pharmaceutical drug. Curcumin may offer antidepressant properties, which are thought to help maintain the high levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain.

There are many pharmaceutical drugs that are used against depression. However, some of these drugs may cause side effects. Curcumin is both non-toxic and safe and makes an excellent alternative to these medications.

After learning about the possible antidepressant effects of curcumin, the scientists then proceeded in investigating the effects of turmerone, which is a potential antidepressant-like property found in turmeric oils. Turmerone is believed to have chemo-preventive, anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative activities.

Today, more and more people are turning to the use of curcumin supplements. Supplements are believed to contain high levels of curcumin and its potential therapeutic effects.

Individuals who suffer from depression may want to consider incorporating curcumin in their diet. One of the most popular curcumin supplements available in the market contains black pepper extract, which is believed to increase curcumin absorption inside the body.

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