Hooked on Turmeric
Ground turmeric can be put into smoothies, made into teas, put in soups, and used as a seasoning in everyday recipes! Click HERE to order our recommended ground turmeric from Amazon.
Turmeric, also known as Curcuma longa, is a plant that belongs to the ginger family (Aggarwal et al., 2013). It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, where it has been used for thousands of years as a spice, dye, and medicinal herb (Singh et al., 2007).
In recent years, turmeric has gained popularity in the Western world due to its potential health benefits. In this article, we will explore the various benefits of turmeric and how it can improve your overall health.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a wide range of health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Consuming turmeric regularly may help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent the onset of these chronic conditions (Jurenka, 2009).
Boosts brain function
Several studies have found that curcumin can increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that stimulates the growth of new brain cells and promotes brain function. This may improve memory, mood, and cognitive function (Goozee et al., 2018).
May lower the risk of heart disease
Turmeric may help improve heart health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors that contribute to the development of heart disease. Studies have also shown that turmeric may improve cholesterol levels, which is another risk factor for heart disease (Aggarwal et al., 2013).
May reduce the risk of cancer
Curcumin has been shown to have anti-cancer properties in laboratory and animal studies. It may help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells and even induce apoptosis, a process that causes cancer cells to self-destruct. While more research is needed, consuming turmeric may be beneficial in reducing the risk of certain types of cancer (Menon & Sudheer, 2007).
May help manage arthritis
Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties may also benefit those with arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints. Studies have found that turmeric may help reduce joint pain and improve mobility in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (Daily et al., 2016).
May improve digestion
Turmeric has long been used as a digestive aid in traditional medicine. It may help stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. This may lead to improved digestion and reduced symptoms of digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (Prasad & Tyagi, 2015).
May benefit skin health
Turmeric has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may help reduce inflammation and bacteria on the skin, leading to improved skin health (Vaughn et al., 2016).
Find turmeric as a gummy, a capsule, or a spice, making it easy to work into your daily routine.
In conclusion, turmeric is a powerful herb with numerous health benefits. It may help reduce inflammation, improve brain function, lower the risk of heart disease and cancer, manage arthritis, improve digestion, and benefit skin health. Consider adding turmeric to your diet in the form of supplements or by using it as a spice in your cooking. As with any supplement, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking turmeric to ensure that it is safe for you to use.
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Sources:
Aggarwal, B. B., Harikumar, K. B., & Sung, B. (2013). Pharmacological basis for the role of curcumin in chronic diseases: an age-old spice with modern targets. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 34(10), 545-555.
Daily, J. W., Yang, M., & Park, S. (2016). Efficacy of turmeric extracts and curcumin for alleviating the symptoms of joint arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Journal of Medicinal Food, 19(8), 717-729.
Goozee, K. G., Shah, T. M., Sohrabi, H. R., Rainey-Smith, S. R., Brown, B., Verdile, G., ... & Martins, R. N. (2018). Examining the potential clinical value of curcumin in the prevention and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. British Journal of Nutrition, 119(6), 647-655.
Jurenka, J. S. (2009). Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a major constituent of Curcuma longa: a review of preclinical and clinical research. Alternative Medicine Review, 14(2), 141-153.
Menon, V. P., & Sudheer, A. R. (2007). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 595, 105-125.
Prasad, S., & Tyagi, A. K. (2015). Ginger and turmeric: The role of spices in inflammation and chronic disease. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 929, 69-81.
Singh, S., Aggarwal, B. B., & Singh, R. (2007). Curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric: a potential for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammopharmacology, 15(5), 248-255.
Vaughn, A. R., Branum, A., & Sivamani, R. K. (2016). Effects of turmeric (Curcuma longa) on skin health: a systematic review of the clinical evidence. Phytotherapy Research, 30(8), 1243-1264.
