Turmeric, also known as Curcuma longa, is a spice that has been used for centuries in Asian cuisine, specifically in Indian dishes. Besides its culinary use, turmeric is also known for its healing properties and health benefits.

In fact, more and more studies are coming out that demonstrate how turmeric can reduce inflammation, act as an antioxidant, and possibly even prevent and treat disease.

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a yellow spice that comes from the root of a plant in the ginger family. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which gives it its distinctive yellow color.

The root is typically harvested, dried, and then ground up to be used in cooking or medicinal purposes.

Turmeric’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is the body’s response to an injury or infection, but when inflammation continues for a long time, it can lead to chronic health conditions. Turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body.

A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology found that curcumin could help decrease joint inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Another study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry in 2016 found that curcumin could help improve gut health and reduce inflammation in individuals with ulcerative colitis.

Turmeric as an Antioxidant

Antioxidants are molecules that help protect cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are molecules with unpaired electrons that can contribute to inflammation and the development of chronic diseases.

Turmeric is a potent antioxidant with the ability to scavenge free radicals throughout the body. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2014 found that curcumin could increase antioxidant levels in healthy individuals.

Turmeric and Cancer Prevention

There is also evidence to suggest that turmeric could help prevent certain types of cancer. A 2018 study published in the journal Cancer Medicine found that curcumin could inhibit the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.

Another study published in the Journal of Cancer Prevention in 2016 found that curcumin could help prevent the development of colon cancer in individuals with a family history of the disease.

Related Article Curcumin: A Natural Health Remedy

Turmeric and Brain Health

Turmeric may also have benefits for brain health. A 2018 study published in the journal Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology found that curcumin could help improve memory function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Another study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2015 found that curcumin could help improve mood and cognitive function in healthy individuals.

Turmeric and Heart Health

Turmeric may also have benefits for heart health. A study published in the journal Nutrition Research in 2012 found that curcumin could help improve cholesterol levels and blood pressure in individuals with metabolic syndrome.

Another study published in the American Journal of Cardiology in 2014 found that curcumin could help reduce the risk of heart attack in individuals undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery.

Turmeric and Digestive Health

Turmeric may also have benefits for digestive health. A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology in 2015 found that curcumin could help improve gut health, reduce inflammation, and prevent the development of certain diseases.

Another study published in the Journal of Digestive Diseases in 2016 found that curcumin could help improve symptoms in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome.

How to Take Turmeric

There are many ways to take turmeric. It can be used as a spice in cooking, added to smoothies, or taken as a supplement.

It is important to note that curcumin is not easily absorbed by the body, so it is often recommended to take turmeric with black pepper, which contains piperine, a compound that enhances the absorption of curcumin.

Conclusion

Turmeric is a powerhouse spice that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and more recently in Western medicine.

It has many proven health benefits, including reducing inflammation, acting as an antioxidant, and possibly even preventing and treating disease. Turmeric is easy to incorporate into the diet or taken as a supplement to reap the numerous health benefits it offers.