Turmeric is a strong spice with a long list of benefits. It’s well-known for its antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory action. This everyday culinary seasoning is highly regarded in many countries around the world, for good reason. Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, is responsible for many of its health benefits.
History of Turmeric
Turmeric has been used as a medicinal herb for thousands of years. It was originally used in India and China to treat a variety of health problems, such as joint pain, skin diseases, and digestive issues.
Today, turmeric is still popular for its therapeutic properties. It’s often used to help relieve symptoms of arthritis, depression, and other chronic conditions. Additionally, turmeric has been shown to have anti-cancer effects.
Related: Why Anti-Inflammatory Foods Are So Important
Science Behind Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a polyphenol compound with strong antioxidant activity. Curcumin has shown many health benefits (1). It’s an effective anti-inflammatory agent and it may help fight inflammation-related diseases like arthritis (2, 3, 4).
Curcumin also works as an antioxidant. One study found that curcumin has 20 times the antioxidant activity of vitamin C (5). Antioxidants neutralize free radicals in your cells before they can cause damage. This helps prevent heart disease and cancer (6, 7).
Turmeric has long been used as a natural remedy for a variety of conditions. Studies suggest that it may help to:
- Fight inflammation
- Aid in weight loss
- Reduce the risk of heart disease
- Prevent cancer
- Ease symptoms of arthritis and other joint pain
- Boost cognitive function
- Improve digestion
- Stave off depression and anxiety.
Turmeric For Health
Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, is responsible for many of its health benefits. If you’re looking for an easy way to add some extra health benefits to your day, consider adding turmeric to your diet. You can use it in cooking or take it as a supplement. Turmeric is safe and well-tolerated, making it a good choice for anyone interested in boosting their health.
Turmeric For Beauty
Turmeric can also help improve your skin. This yellow spice makes a great natural face mask since it’s loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Try this turmeric face mask recipe to reduce the appearance of acne scars and soothe redness around your nose.
How To Use Turmeric
Turmeric can be consumed in many ways, including adding it to food, taking it as a supplement, or using it in topical applications. When consumed orally, it is best to take with pepper and healthy fat like coconut oil to improve absorption.
There are many great ways to incorporate turmeric into your diet. Some of our favorites include:
- Add it to scrambled eggs or an omelet
- Stir it into a soup or stew
- Sprinkle it on roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice
- Mix it with honey and ginger for a soothing tea
- Use it as a seasoning in marinades or dressings.
Turmeric is a safe and healthy spice to add to your everyday diet. With its many health benefits, it’s a good idea to start using more of this powerful herb today!
References :
- (1) Curcuminoids (Turmeric). (n.d.). Retrieved April 28, 2017, from http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/curcuminoids-fact-sheet
- (2) Turmeric Extract Helps Osteoarthritis Pain. (2016, July 20). Retrieved April 27, 2017, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316031.php
- (3) Arthritis Linked to Lower Risk of Heart Disease Among Individuals with Diabetes According to New Study – ScienceDaily. (2017, February 23). Retrieved April 27, 2017, from www..sciencedaily.com /releases/2017/02/170223140747.htm
- (4) Curcuminoids From Turmeric Exhibit Significant Anti-Inflammatory Activity in Human Cells: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. (2016, November 08). Retrieved April 27, 2017, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5128352/
- (5) Comparative antioxidant potential of curcumin and some common food colors. (2011, October 01). Retrieved April 28, 2017, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21915269
- (6) The role of antioxidants in cancer prevention. (2013, May 01). Retrieved April 28, 2017, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665069/
- (7) The Relationship of Diet with Cancer Development and Progression. (2016, January 01). Retrieved April 27, 2017, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4731738/