Adelaide researchers believe a turmeric extract may be the key to curing dozens of cancers.

Tumeric has been used in curries for centuries, but new research shows one of its compounds actually kills cancer cells in the lab.

Cancer specialist Brandon Coventry said researchers believe it can be effective against any type of cancer, including melanoma, prostate, breast and colon cancer.

“This molecule actually targets cancer cells and leaves normal cells alone,” he told 7News.

New drugs are still a few years away, and more funding is needed to continue this vital research.