Compound in turmeric could help brain heal

WASHINGTON — Turmerone, a compound found naturally in turmeric, could help the brain heal itself, according to a new study.

Researchers injected rats with aromatic-turmerone and found the compound encouraged the growth of nerve cells, Time reports.

The same researchers at the Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine in Julich, Germany, also found the neural stem cells of rats grew when the rats were bathed in a solution of aromatic-turmerone.

It’s not clear whether the research could translate to people and be used to stall or reverse the symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Turmeric is commonly used in making curry and is used for a number of health reasons, including arthritis and heartburn, according to WebMD.

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