Among other findings, researchers discovered that turmeric (especially the curcumin component) has rich stores of antioxidants. In the body these important disease-fighting substances mop up unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals that can otherwise damage cells and cause diseases such as cancer.

Test-tube studies done in the ***0s indicate that curcumin is as powerful an antioxidant as vitamins C and E, and even beta-carotene. Antioxidants are also powerful preservatives, which helps explain why turmeric has long been sprinkled on food to help retain its freshness.

In animal studies and in one human trial published in ***2, turmeric also showed promise in lowering cholesterol levels and fighting atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries that can lead to heart attack. Preliminary studies in mice indicate that the curcumin in turmeric may even block the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS).

The interest in the plant's potential for preventing neurologic diseases, such as MS and even Alzheimer's, was spurred by the realization that elderly Indian populations that consume considerable amounts of turmeric in their diet are far less likely than their Western counterparts to develop such ailments. Scientists conjecture that turmeric benefits such neurologic illnesses by minimizing inflammation, a theory supported by recent findings that people (Westerners in this case) taking anti-inflammatories regularly for arthritis are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. More research in this area is clearly needed before any specific recommendations can be made.

Today, turmeric is widely recommended for myriad ailments, from stomach ulcers and skin infections to eye conditions (such as chronic anterior uveitis). The evidence for it actually working for any of these conditions is mixed. For example, there's no evidence that turmeric will help heal stomach ulcers but, when it's applied as a paste, it may well eliminate scabies, an itchy skin condition caused by parasitic mites.