In preliminary lab tests, a chemical in turmeric, one of the main ingredients in curry, helped rid the blood of a key ingredient in Alzheimer's brain plaque, according to media reports.

Curry is a blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander and other spices.

It's not yet clear if eating lots of the spice is effective against the disease; scientists haven't tried the curry chemical as an Alzheimer's treatment yet.

But that shouldn't stop you from enjoying the savory spice.

Tracy Rit, owner of The Chatta Box in Bridgewater, Mass., says the base of her savory dishes comes from a blend of one part curry paste and three parts coconut milk.

She said the simple base can be used with just about anything -- chicken, seafood, beef or just vegetables. Rit says to add what you want and simmer in a covered pot for at least an hour.

Cooks might have a problem finding curry paste. Rit said it's not widely available in stores. In a pinch, Rit said you can substitute curry powder for the paste. "It's close enough, but slightly different."

- Alice C. Elwell For Living Well

Source: The Patriot Ledger; Quincy, Mass. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. Powered by YellowBrix.

Curry can also help battle bugs.

Don't miss our recipe for vegetable curry.

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