It’s a strong pain-killer that doctors are now using to treat pain due to everything from Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis to osteoarthritis and dental procedures. In fact, research shows that curcumin can be even more effective than the prescription drug Voltaren in reducing arthritis pain.

It helps prevent diabetes or reduce complications from the disease. Curcumin fights diabetes in a variety of ways—for instance, by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, lowering blood glucose, and helping to prevent the formation of molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that do serious damage to the body.

It fights cancer by inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells. Studies show that curcumin, either alone or in combination with other substances, can help fight colorectal, pancreatic, breast, brain, and head and neck cancers.

It’s thermogenic, which means that it encourages your body to “heat up” and burn more energy—and that translates into a slimmer belly.

It lowers total cholesterol while raising levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

It speeds the healing of wounds and protects against sun-related skin damage.

It can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

It makes your gut healthier. Research shows that curcumin can increase bacterial richness (one key to a healthy microbiome) and foster the growth of beneficial bacteria.

It protects neurons from damage and may help to prevent or slow Alzheimer’s disease.

It helps prevent dangerous blood clots.

It helps prevent dangerous blood clots.

And if your kids are prone to ear infections, it may help to reduce this problem.

It’s a detoxifier that can help protect your cells against damage due to heavy metals such as mercury.