Botanicals: Garlic and Turmeric - Essay Example

Botanicals: Garlic and Turmeric Although we commonly think of a healing agent as a drug that is manufactured in a pharmaceutical factory, plants and their derivatives that have been used since the beginning of recorded history to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and treat innumerable health conditions. The extracts from these plants and plant parts are reduced to the essential oils or dried and processed for use and storage. Many of these substances have a strong aroma and a pungent taste. Because of their flavor, and the health benefits that are associated with them, they have found their way into our diet over the centuries and remain there today. Along with their continued use as a spice, many are processed for sale as dietary and medicinal supplements. Two of these spices, garlic and turmeric, have been used by healers for centuries and their use continues today as science confirms and unlocks the mysteries behind their healing powers. Garlic and turmeric have both received increased attention in recent years as science has studied their healing properties. They are interesting healing agents as they have been used for over two thousand years in Chins, India, and throughout Asia. In addition, recent scientific studies have confirmed the positive effects of garlic and turmeric, while demonstrating the underlying mechanisms by which they work. They are also of a culinary importance and are common spices that are found in many home kitchens today. With a basic understanding of their qualities and the associated health benefits, garlic and turmeric can be incorporated in just about anyones diet. Garlic, a pungent bulb, is a spice often associated with Italian cooking, but its value goes beyond its pleasant flavor. It has been used by the ancient Egyptians and has been known by just about every civilization as a curing and healing agent (Rivlin 713S). According to Amagase, "It prevents cold and flu symptoms through immune enhancement and exhibits anticancer and chemopreventive activities" (716S-717S). It is theorized that garlic fortifies the immune system by reducing free radicals or diminishing the negative impact that they have on the body. (Amagase 722S). However, it should be noted that the health benefits of garlic typically require a long term supplemental use, and is considered preventative rather than therapeutic (Amagase 721S). Garlics health benefits to the immune system are best acquired through the regular consumption of garlic or its derivatives. Garlic not only enhances the immune system, but recent studies have indicated that garlic is successful at lowering a persons cholesterol level. However, the form and processing of the garlic may be an important aspect of its value. While dried garlic powder has shown inconclusive results in lowering cholesterol, aged garlic extract (AGE), "…has consistent effects on risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including cholesterol and others" (Amagase 721S). Processing garlic has a significant effect on the chemical structure and alters many of its key compounds. If garlic is taken to reduce cholesterol, it must be taken in the form of aged garlic extract. The same level of care that is required when taking a conventional drug needs to also be afforded when using garlic as an herbal remedy or herbal supplement. Garlic extracts are one of the herbal remedies that are known to have a high potential for interacting with therapeutic drugs (Rapaka and Coates 2031). In addition, because of the differing compounds in the various preparations, "…the safety and effectiveness of each product must be examined through toxicological and pharmacological tests" (Amagase 720S). For many of the garlic products a dose-response has not been clarified and dosages have not been established in relation to toxicity and side effects. Along with garlic, turmeric is another culinary spice whose medicinal qualities have been recognized since the beginning of recorded history. Turmeric is known around the world for its distinctive yellow coloring and is used widely in India as an ingredient in curry sauces. Curcunim is the active compound in turmeric and has been shown to provide a wide range of medicinal uses (Chattopadhyay et al. 44). Traditional uses of turmeric include the treatment of asthma, acne, insect bites, and dental diseases (Tilak 798). It is also used an effective anti-inflammatory and is believed that in the near future curcunim will be used as a basis for a clinical application in mainstream medicine (Chattopadhyay et al 50). Turmeric is one of the most widely used botanicals in the world. It is highly regarded in India, where it is used, "…in the form of paste as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent for smearing on the swollen parts of the skin" (Tilak 798). Recent scientific research has confirmed the therapeutic effects of curcunim when used as an anti-inflammatory, as well as establishing it as extremely safe in regards to side effects and toxicity. Historical experience and scientific studies imply that a regular meal of Indian curry may be beneficial to your health. Both garlic and turmeric are regulated by the FDA, but they are considered foods and not drugs. Because of the extensive and complicated process involved to determine the efficacy and safety of a medicinal product, labeling for this use is limited. Though research has increased in recent years, it is recommended that garlic be considered as a supplement or complimentary medicine, and not an alternative form of treatment (Rivlin 715S). In addition, the proper processing and consumption needs to be observed when using these spices as a traditional remedy. In conclusion, two common household spices, garlic and turmeric, have been used for centuries for the treatment of a wide range of diseases and ailments. Only recently has science been able to confirm the effectiveness and describe the mechanism for their use. Still, the complexities of their chemical structures and need for thoroughness have limited their use as mainstream medicines. Recent research has been able to provide hope and optimism that they will provide a basis for novel drugs sometime in the future. As science continues to confirm the safety and validate the effectiveness of these important botanicals, consumers may have the choice of shopping for their drugs in the produce section of their grocery store. Works Cited Amagase, Harunobu. "Clarifying the Real Bioactive Constituents of Garlic." The Journal of Nutrition 136.3 (2006): 716S-25S. 5 Apr. 2008 . Chattopadhyay, Ishita et al.. "Turmeric and Curcumin: Biological Actions and Medicinal Applications." Current Science 87.1 (2004): 44-53. 5 Apr. 2008 . Rapaka, Rao S., and Paul M. Coates. "Dietary Supplements and Related Products: A Brief Summary." Life Sciences 78.18 (2006): 2026-32. Elsevier. 5 Apr. 2008. Rivlin, Richard S. "Is Garlic Alternative Medicine?" The Journal of Nutrition 136.3 (2006): 713S-5S. 5 Apr. 2008 . Tilak, Jai C. "Antioxidant Availability of Turmeric in Relation to its Medicinal and Culinary Uses." Phytotherapy Research 18 (2004): 798-804. Wiley InterScience. 5 Apr. 2008. Read More