Turmeric is derived directly from the Curcuma longa plant. The root of turmeric, also known as rhizome, is underground and is similar to ginger.
While it can be found throughout Southeast Asian countries, India is the world’s largest producer of turmeric and was since the beginning of time.
Turmeric has been utilized for its medicinal properties for over 4000 years. Healers have utilized the plant to help treat respiratory issues and gastric disorders, as well as improve digestion, and ease arthritis among other things.
What is it that makes that golden spice potent? Curcumin, the bioactive ingredient in turmeric.
With thousands of scientific studies proving the health benefits of turmeric, It’s not difficult to conclude that the fact that this spice is a powerhouse. Here are the most compelling benefits of turmeric and why it should be an integral part of your diet.
1. Turmeric helps fight inflammation
Inflammation is a body’s response to infection and injury. It triggers the body’s immune system to fight to treat or repair the injury or defend against invaders such as viruses or bacteria.
Although some inflammation is essential, chronic inflammation may result in a myriad of chronic illnesses including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and even cancer.
Due to the curcumin compounds, it is a potent anti-inflammatory. A study showed that the effectiveness of turmeric (and curcumin) is similar to anti-inflammatory medications with the added benefit of not having any adverse consequences, so it’s like having a 21 hand in blackjack.
2. Turmeric can help prevent and treat Alzheimer’s disease.
Damage to the oxidative system and inflammation are the two main causes of Alzheimer’s disease. Alongside its anti-inflammatory properties, research suggests that curcumin may help prevent the development and breakdown of amyloid-beta plaques linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Turmeric is a potent cancer fighter
From stopping the death of cancerous cells to limiting cancer growth, and even stopping cancer’s spread, research has shown that curcumin could accomplish all of these.
Curcumin is one of the most effective treatments for cancer of the bowel, breast stomach cancer, skin cancer cells
Additionally, less than 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric daily decreases the ability to mutate the DNA of the substances that cause cancer.
4. Turmeric is great for arthritis
As mentioned earlier, the natural ingredient turmeric is an anti-inflammatory. This herb has been utilized in the treatment of arthritis.
Curcumin was tested, and the study’s results revealed that the group receiving curcumin had the highest rate of improvement. The study also mentions that curcumin treatment was confirmed to be secure and not associated with any adverse reactions.
5. Turmeric may help reduce depression symptoms
Research suggests that curcumin may be beneficial in the treatment of depression.
Researchers from India provided study participants with Prozac or curcumin; or a combination of both. The outcome? Curcumin was as efficient as Prozac.
Two additional studies, one involving women and men, and one focused on only men have similar results.
6. Turmeric is good for heart health
Heart disease has been identified as the leading reason for death across the world and has claimed the lives of more than 15 million, people but turmeric might aid in reducing the risk.
Curcumin can enhance the endothelium, this thin, thin layer of tissues that forms the blood vessels.
A study tracked the function of the endothelial lining in a tiny group of women who are postmenopausal and the endothelial function. A group of women exercised aerobically while the other group ingested curcumin. After eight weeks, those who took curcumin had improved their endothelial cell functions just like the people who were exercising.
Another study suggests that curcumin can work exactly the same way as Atorvastatin, which is a medication commonly prescribed to treat heart-related problems.
7. Turmeric helps in PMS
If you are suffering from menstrual cramps or any other PMS-related symptoms, such as headaches or back pain The turmeric supplement could provide needed relief.
In a double-blind, randomized investigation, the women that took two curcumin capsules daily throughout the day, seven days prior to their period and three days following for three consecutive cycles, experienced a reduction in PMS symptoms.
8. Turmeric is great for your skin
Turmeric isn’t the same beautyberry as acai. However, it is still able to enhance your skin.
Curcumin is an effective antioxidant and can stop free radicals. In addition, due to the anti-inflammatory qualities, it could be helpful in the treatment of Psoriasis.
It’s also believed that the combination of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents can help bring your skin’s natural glow.
How do I use Turmeric?
In Europe, you’re likely to see turmeric powdered.
A disadvantage of turmeric is that curcumin isn’t easy to be absorbed into the bloodstream. But, when combined along with black pepper it boosts the bioavailability by more than 2000 percent.
A teaspoon in Golden Mellow to smoothies, oatmeal or lattes, snacks, and even hummus, will allow you to find peace amid the chaos!
