Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. “It has been found to have a measurable effect on mood; it induces neural growth factors in the brain, mimicking the action of the anti depressant Prozac.”
PROZAC® (fluoxetine capsules, USP) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor for oral administration. It is also marketed for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (Sarafem®, fluoxetine hydrochloride), OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) and/or major depression.
Yu Jin is the Chinese Pinyin for wild Turmeric. It has long been a medicinal herb in Chinese Medicine used for a variety of problems. One of it’s major functions is to decrease unwanted perimenstrual symptoms and modify symptoms of anxiety, agitation or mental derangement. All effects very similar to the functions of Prozac BUT without the side effects.
Chinese Herbs are almost always used in combination with several herbs to reduce possible side effects and enhance the function of the main herbs. This is what makes Chinese herbal Formulas extremely safe as long as a Practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine prescribes them.
At Avicenna Acupuncture Clinic we use Yu Jin on a daily basis.
I am glad western research is finally catching up 😉
In good health and with love,
Igor and Petra
Resources:
Article in Psychology Today 12/2012
www.rxlist.com/prozac-drug.htm