Household Spice May Be the Golden Elixir for Indigestion, Comparable to Drugs: Study

A remedy for indigestion may be cheap, delicious, and readily available.

A new study published in the BMJ suggests that turmeric, which contains a compound called curcumin, may potentially treat indigestion. NADKI/Shutterstock

A remedy for indigestion may be cheap, delicious, and readily available.

New research reveals that turmeric, the sunny yellow spice that gives curry its vibrant color and zesty flavor, may be just as effective as medication in easing this common abdominal discomfort affecting about a quarter of Americans.

Turmeric Matches Standard Medication for Treating Indigestion

Turmeric is a spice from the rootstalks of the Curcuma longa plant, which belongs to the ginger family of herbs. Curcumin—the active ingredient in turmeric—has powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.