Researchers in Britain are investigating whether a curry ingredient can improve the treatment of patients with advanced bowel cancer.
Scientists will supplement standard chemotherapy with pills containing curcumin, a compound found in the yellow curry spice turmeric.
Laboratory tests have suggested curcumin can boost the ability of chemotherapy drugs to kill bowel cancer cells, the BBC reports.
The compound is known to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and also acts as an antioxidant.
Some studies have indicated it may slow the spread of cancer, improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy and protect healthy cells.