According to Dr. William LaValley, who focuses most of his clinical work on the treatment of cancer, curcumin – a derivative of turmeric and the pigment that gives the curry spice turmeric its yellow-orange colour – may fit the bill. It's a natural compound that has been extensively researched and has been found to have numerous health applications.

Like me, LaValley was trained in general medicine, but he's devoted a considerable amount of time to understanding the biochemical pathways that can support health nutritionally. In 1982, he participated in an exchange program to the People's Republic of China where he got first-hand experience with the ancient practices of traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.