Cancer is a life-threatening disease, and turmeric is often considered beneficial for health and wellness. However, consuming it recklessly, without medical guidance, can be dangerous. Oncologist Dr. Akshay Kelani recently highlighted a tragic case that illustrates this risk.
The Incident
An elderly woman diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) and lung metastasis was undergoing her third cycle of chemotherapy. Alongside her prescribed treatment, she was also consuming turmeric capsules, believing they would help combat her tumor. Tragically, she passed away during this period.
What Happened?
The doctors initially observed that her body had turned yellow, and she was experiencing difficulty breathing. This led them to suspect that the metastatic cancer had spread to her liver, causing jaundice. However, upon closer examination, her sclera (the white part of the eyes) was normal, indicating that the yellowing of her skin was not due to liver dysfunction.
The Discovery
After investigating with her caregivers, it was revealed that she had been taking high doses of turmeric capsules provided by a local physician who claimed to have treated multiple cancer patients using the same method.
Why Turmeric Appeared Harmful
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that gives it a bright yellow color. In this case, the excessive turmeric intake caused curcumin to accumulate in the subcutaneous tissue, giving her skin a yellow hue, which mimicked the appearance of jaundice.
Curcumin in Cancer Treatment
Laboratory studies have shown that curcumin can kill cancer cells in petri dishes. However, these preclinical results do not directly translate to humans, as turmeric’s bioavailability in the body is very low. Most of it is metabolized in the gut, and only a small fraction reaches the bloodstream or tumors. This is why the promising effects observed in lab trials are often not replicated in clinical settings.
Medical Advice
Dr. Kelani emphasizes that natural remedies, including turmeric, should never replace medically prescribed treatment. Patients should consult qualified healthcare professionals before attempting any alternative therapies.
Disclaimer: The claims mentioned in this article are based on information shared in an Instagram reel and are not verified by Navbharat Times. Readers are advised to seek professional guidance before trying any remedies.
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