Its colour and flavour give dishes height, but also a lot of freshness. This spice is inseparable from Indian cuisine and Asian gastronomy.
However, beyond its culinary interest, turmeric is also a medicinal plant of the first choice. It has long been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for its various health benefits.
And it is now found in the composition of many food supplements, whether in solid or liquid form.
The one that constitutes the main ingredient of curry has preventive and curative properties which we will come back to in detail in a few moments. Turmeric is one of the most powerful medicinal plants in the world.
It’s hard to put a date on the first use of turmeric. However, traces of its presence can be found in the writings of Sanskrit literature.
These date back to more than 2000 years before our era. If its temporal origins remain unclear, its geographical origins are very clear. This plant comes from the regions of southern and southeastern Asia, and more specifically India and Myanmar.
You should know that the story of turmeric is twofold. The plant has a very rich culinary past and an equally interesting medical past.
In cooking, turmeric is used to enhance the flavour of dishes, but also as a natural colouring and food preservative. It is the main ingredient in curry.
Within the framework of medicine, it is used in traditional uses, in herbal medicine and for some other notable effects.
But it is also considered to inhibit the development of several types of cancer. Anti-inflammatory, digestive regulator, natural antioxidant… It has many roles that we will detail. What are the health benefits of turmeric?
Main virtues of turmeric
•Powerful natural anti-inflammatory
•Contributes to the protection of the joints
•Improves digestive comfort
•Maintain liver health and facilitate fat loss
•Antioxidant properties to fight against oxidative stress
•Contributes to a good nervous balance
•Helps limit the accumulation of fat
Nutrition facts of turmeric
Turmeric stands out as one of the most powerful antioxidant plants in the world.
This property is mainly due to the presence of curcumin and curcuminoids in its composition. Curcumin is the major active ingredient in turmeric, often reduced to spice after harvest.
But the exceptional composition of turmeric is even richer than that. We can find in particular essential oils (3 to 5%) such as turmerones (a powerful antioxidant), curcumins, but also zingiberene and zingiberene (the latter two are also found in ginger).
These molecules make it a powerful medicinal plant. Also, turmeric contains vitamins (C, E, K, B1, B2), including vitamin B6 in large quantities, but also many minerals. The latter are zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, copper and potassium.
Other active ingredients complete this list: dihydro curcumin, desmethoxycurcumine and bisdemethoxycurcumin. There are added alkaloids, lignans, phenylpropanoids, steroids, benzenoids and some other quinoids.
Health Benefits of turmeric
1. Natural antioxidant
Curcumin and curcuminoids are active and particularly potent antioxidant components.
Both participate in the elimination of free radicals stored in our body. By acting against these harmful substances, the active principles of turmeric make it possible to limit the ageing of cells.
But these two elements are far from being the only antioxidants present in the composition of turmeric! Vitamin E, for example, is renowned for its antioxidant properties. It is the same for vitamin C (ascorbic acid), also present in turmeric.
You should know that free radicals are favoured by internal and external factors such as stress, pollution or the consumption of tobacco and alcohol.
Lack of sports activity or an unbalanced diet can also promote the proliferation of free radicals in the body.
The active ingredients in turmeric help the body to detoxify. They allow us to eliminate the free radicals present in excess in our body and thus, to preserve the cells from accelerated ageing and some other damage which they cause.
Also, the spice helps protect against external and internal aggressions (acidity of meals, stress, etc.) considerably.
2. Benefits of turmeric for inflammatory
Turmeric has been used for a long time as part of traditional medicine, especially because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The root of the plant can relieve pain caused by chronic inflammation such as tendonitis, lumbago, osteoarthritis and Rhumatism.
Turmeric is shown to be as effective in preventing as it is in relieving pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In general, turmeric is effective in all forms of inflammation.
Scientific studies have been able to demonstrate the regenerating and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and the benefits of its use on tendonitis and following an accident or a sports injury.
Turmeric and its curcumin increase recovery capacities and reduce muscle and joint pain. These substances also improve blood circulation, and therefore wound healing.
3. Benefits of turmeric for digestion
Scientists have demonstrated it benefits to the digestive system. The plant is particularly useful in the fight against gallstones, liver diseases and other diseases related to the functioning of the liver.
It can also fight some symptoms of fibromyalgia. The root of the plant therefore helps to promote digestion by increasing bile secretions.
Turmeric offers a certain intestinal comfort daily. It can be combined with the consumption of aloe vera juice to optimize its effects.
Also, the plant is able to act against the effects of drug or food poisoning. Its effects are also beneficial in the fight against constipation, inflammation and bowel disorders and in particular against irritable bowel syndrome.
It is shown to be extremely effective against gastroenteritis, digestive pain or even infectious diarrhoea.
Turmeric is often part of dietary rebalancing programs. And this, because of its capacity to participate in the destocking of fats via the liver. But also because it can rebalance the intestinal flora.
4. Benefits of turmeric for cholesterol
The spice has stood out on numerous occasions in preventing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which has the common nickname “bad cholesterol”.
It is known that turmeric has a beneficial influence on blood circulation, which helps limit the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
But it also acts on the general cholesterol level as well as on the metabolites. In short, turmeric reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and prevents the appearance of arteriosclerosis (oxidation of cholesterol).
On the other hand, various independent studies have demonstrated the ability of turmeric to lower LDL cholesterol levels in the body.
These studies show that it helps to better control blood sugar levels, which is an important point in diabetes. By increasing the enzymatic activity of cholesterol, curcumin promotes the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids in the liver. It thus helps to reduce bad cholesterol in the body more generally.
Besides, we must clarify that the curcuminoids that turmeric contains are among the most powerful natural antioxidants.
Curcumin is a kind of curcuminoid. And it is the antioxidant molecule par excellence. These compounds protect the cardiovascular system and prevent a large number of diseases.
5. Role of turmeric on cognitive functions
The benefits of turmeric are very numerous, and they also concern the brain system and cognition. Turmeric and its components show beneficial effects against certain memory disorders and various degenerative diseases.
The root of the plant can be particularly useful in the prevention and the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. It can also slow the progression of the disease as well as its development.
In areas where turmeric is consumed almost daily, the incidence of this disease is much lower. This is the case for the regions of origin of turmeric.
Besides, the spice can drain the heavy metals present in the body and clean it by eliminating amyloid plaques. These are clumps of proteins that are deposited on and damage nerve tissue.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are behind the benefits of turmeric on cognition. So it is the curcuminoids and curcumin that act here.
Finally, the association with omega 3 (hemp oil, in particular) generally reinforces the benefits of turmeric on the cerebral system and inflammation.
6. Turmeric and sport
Many athletes have integrated it into their diet or supplementation. Indeed, turmeric is an antioxidant that can be of interest in the context of physical recovery after exercise.
But also as a natural anti-inflammatory. It can be used for prevention or in case of pain, inflammation or injury.
It will support the body in its recovery and healing efforts, which can be decisive in sports and the repetition of more or less intense physical efforts.
Finally, thanks to its effects on vitality, it can also contribute to a significant energy gain. The benefits of turmeric are highly sought after by athletes looking for increased performance.
7. Benefits of turmeric for cancer
Cancer research is interested in the potential of all plants and foods. Those which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties stand out, particularly in this context.
The properties of turmeric in the context of cancer prevention have been studied since 1985 (R. Kultan “ Potential Anticancer Activity of Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) ”).
The results of experiments carried out on mice in vivo and in vitro have demonstrated the action of turmeric (and curcumin) on the development of certain tumours.
Precisely, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the plant make it possible to prevent and better treat several forms of cancer.
Subsequently, many studies have also been conducted on the inhibitory effects of turmeric and curcumin on the development of several types of cancer. Best of all, this tasty spice is believed to be able to stimulate the production of enzymes that block and kill cancer cells.
The results obtained during these studies have led organizations (including the American Cancer Society) to openly recommend turmeric as part of cancer prevention.
But also as part of chemotherapy. The preventive and curative properties of turmeric against cancer are taken very seriously by the scientific community. The spice is said to be very effective in stabilizing pancreatic and colon cancers.
8. Increased energy levels
One of the lesser-known benefits of turmeric is energy gain. If this does not generally correspond to the first effects sought during its consumption, turmeric can increase the energy levels of the body.
This effect stems from its beneficial action on the digestive system. Indeed, our digestive system is energy-intensive and can monopolize up to 90% of our physical energy.
Several methods and tips can help us optimize our digestion and thus reduce the energy consumption of the digestive system. Turmeric consumption/supplementation is of course one of them.
By improving our digestion and the general functioning of the digestive system, turmeric also indirectly increases energy levels as well as our vitality. More energy available daily results in less fatigue / less intense and more available energy.
9. Benefits of turmeric for heart
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world. Well, turmeric, in addition to helping to reduce inflammation and oxidation, improves the function of the endothelium.
When the vascular endothelium, which is the lining of the blood vessels, does not function properly (known as endothelial dysfunction), it can not regulate blood pressure, blood clotting, and several other factors that can lead to a heart disease.
In one study, patients who had consumed 4 grams of curcumin per day a few days before and after coronary artery bypass surgery had a 65% lower risk of having a heart attack in the hospital.
9. Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis
It is even more effective than an anti-inflammatory drug.
Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound capable of reducing inflammation and swelling in the joints and the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
10. Maintains remission of ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic condition that causes ulcers in the lower end of the gastrointestinal tract.
UC patients in remission who consume turmeric may have considerably lower relapse rates.
11. Benefits of turmeric for uveitis
Uveitis is an inflammation of the iris that usually appears suddenly and worsens quickly, causing the eye to become red, swollen, and have blurred vision.
Curcumin can be as effective a treatment as corticosteroids, but without the side effects.
12. Benefits of turmeric for stomach
Turmeric is a very effective natural remedy for an upset stomach.
Having anti-inflammatory properties, it prevents heartburn and calms heartburn, as well as digestive disorders in general.
It is recommended for people with poor appetite, dyspepsia, gastritis or slow digestion.
The active principles of this spice favor the production of gastric and pancreatic juices, which in turn helps to balance the pH of these organs.
It is also recommended to avoid gases that are produced in the intestine. Being carminative, it prevents flatulence and intestinal colic and is recommended for stomach atony.
It must be borne in mind that the correct amount must be taken, since its excessive consumption is counterproductive.
13. Benefits of turmeric for liver
Thanks to ‘curcumin’, turmeric is an excellent biliary tonic. Even the rest of its hepatoprotective components serve as adjuvants to eliminate stones in the gallbladder and promote hepatic drainage.
Having anti-inflammatory properties, it is recommended for people with jaundice, liver cirrhosis and gallbladder disorders.
14. Works as a natural antidepressant
For thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine has used turmeric to treatdepression, sadness and unhappiness.
Turmeric extract, or what is the same, turmeric powder, stimulates the nervous system, activates the immune system and wakes up the mood.
It is ideal for reducing stress levels, as it produces an increase in serotonin. For this reason, it is widely used in people with seasonal or emotional depression, as well as other related disorders.
15. Prevents Blood Clotting
Turmeric is a very powerful blood thinner thanks to curcumin. It clumps platelets together and prevents blood from clotting.
16. Benefits of turmeric for weight loss
Many people have attributed to turmeric thanks to its properties that help to lose weight. It notably helps to accelerate metabolism, allowing our body to burn a good amount of calories, which translates into weight loss.
It also helps reduce fat mass and detoxify the liver, essential aspects of a weight loss regimen. It also dramatically helps suppress muscle inflammation, allowing the body to focus on metabolizing fat.
17. Benefits of turmeric for Alzheimer’s
As we said before, the antioxidant properties of this herb can stimulate neuronal activity and prevent cognitive degradation, which can appear in the form of Alzheimer ‘s or Dementia.
A study conducted in California showed that curcumin is highly efficient at removing amyloid plaque, a critical indicator of Alzheimer’s progress.
Another study also found that turmeric also improves mood and cognitive function in older people with mild age-related memory problems (without dementia).
18. Benefits of turmeric for bone and joint
Curcumin is capable of improving symptoms associated with osteoarthritis such as inflammation, morning stiffness or decreased mobility.
Studies in patients with osteoarthritis have observed how the consumption of 1200 mg/day of curcumin is capable of improving these symptoms after 2 weeks of treatment.
A study conducted with a commercial brand of turmeric with enhanced absorption with phosphatidyl choline improved symptoms of osteoarthritis, pain, and inflammation after consumption of 1,000 mg of turmeric (75% curcumin).
Curcumin is also capable of reducing the destruction of cartilage by reducing the production of enzymes involved in its destruction (MMP’s).
Likewise, studies have also been carried out with good results in cases of rheumatoid arthritis both in animal models and in clinical studies in humans.
19. Muscle recovery.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory action, curcumin is being studied in the recovery of muscle damage and the prevention of sports injuries.
Preliminary studies in animal models support its effectiveness in reducing inflammation, muscle damage and oxidative stress produced by training, especially eccentric training.
Some references indicate that it can also be useful in the prevention of bursitis and tendonitis.
20. Nervous system.
New benefits have recently been added to the consumption of curcumin, including neuroprotective capacity.
Curcuminoids enhance the endogenous antioxidant capacity of the human body, improving defense capacity and reducing inflammation.
Different studies have been carried out in which it has been seen that curcumin can be useful in nervous system disorders such as brain tumors, ischemia, depression or brain trauma.
In vitro studies and in animal models offer encouraging data on the prevention and treatment with curcumin against symptoms associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
Contraindications and side effects
Turmeric is a safe substance as long as it is consumed in moderation. This is because taking too much turmeric can cause the following side effects :
- heart rate acceleration
- Stomach ache
- Ulcers, by increasing stomach acidity
- Sickness
- dizziness
- Diarrhea
In general, turmeric is contraindicated for people with:
- Inflammation of the gallbladder or stones in the gallbladder.
- Obstruction of the bile ducts.
- stomach ulcers
- Blood coagulation disorders.
- infertility
- Hormonal alterations.
- Treatments that involve taking anticoagulants, as it can thin the blood.
How to prepare and take turmeric to reduce inflammation?
There are two main ways to cook with turmeric.
Ground
It is the most common option when you want to cook with it.
Simply add turmeric powder to taste in cooked dishes, such as stews or woks, or cooked foods, such as brown rice or quinoa.
The amount to use will depend on the amount of food that is being prepared and the intensity of its flavor that you want to add.
If this is your first time or you’re not very familiar with its taste, start with very small amounts, like half a teaspoon.
Root
It’s as easy as peeling off the outer layer, grating the inside and adding it to soups, purees, stews, even healthy smoothies.
Remember to also add black pepper in both cases to activate the turmeric.
And apart from cooking with it, you can also prepare delicious infusions or turmeric teas.
How to make natural turmeric tea at night to lose weight
Drinking turmeric tea is a great way to boost the immune system and relieve pain and inflammation in the body.
To prepare natural turmeric and ginger tea at home for one person you must:
- Boil 500 ml of water. You can make it in a pot on the ceramic hob, in the microwave or, our preferred option, in a kettle .
- At the same time, thoroughly wash the turmeric root and ginger root with a brush and peel off their outer layers.
- Then, in a cup add 10 to 20 grams of the interior of the root of both foods. Another option, if you decide to heat the water on the stove, is to add the roots directly to the water and let it cook for 5 to 10 minutes over low heat.
- Later, when the water has already boiled, add it to the cup with the peeled roots and let them infuse for 10 minutes.
- Finally, include the juice of half a lemon.
You can also make turmeric tea with a vegetable drink made from almonds, soy or oats, instead of water. Or, use ground turmeric instead of the fresh root. Just add two small tablespoons of turmeric powder.
What is the best turmeric supplement?
The first thing you should know is that there are usually food supplements with both curcumin and turmeric and there is not enough scientific evidence to know which one is better.
Most of the analyzes that have shown beneficial effects have used turmeric extracted with a high concentration of curcumin or curcumin alone.
When choosing a supplement, the key is to buy one that:
- It has been clinically shown to be well absorbed by the body.
- Contains piperine or black pepper to activate curcumin, but no other ingredients such as artificial additives or preservatives.
- Its origin is from certified organic farming.
The truth is that curcumin is well tolerated by the body and has been tested in high daily doses of up to 12 grams . However, an overdose can cause some side effects such as intestinal discomfort and nausea.
In addition, minors, pregnant or lactating women should avoid its consumption, unless medically approved.
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