Turmeric is a spice that has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. It is known for its bright yellow colour and distinct flavour, but it also offers a range of health benefits. Here are some of the main health benefits of turmeric:
1. Anti-inflammatory Properties
Turmeric contains a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin. This can help to reduce inflammation in the body and may be helpful for conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other chronic inflammatory conditions. Chronic inflammation contributes to some common health conditions. Curcumin can suppress many molecules known to play major roles in inflammation, but its bioavailability needs to improve.
2. Improved Brain Function
Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone which increases the growth of new neurons and may help fight various degenerative processes in your brain. Studies have shown that curcumin may have a positive effect on brain function and could help to improve memory and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
3. Lowered risk of Heart Disease
Turmeric is linked to reducing oxidative stress on vascular tissues that can increase the risk of chronic diseases. And as a shield for heart health, curcumin may stall the onset of heart disease by improving the function of the lining of your blood vessels. This further helps regulate your blood pressure. Also, it stops platelets from clumping together and prevents blood clots from building up along the walls of arteries.
4. Antioxidant Properties
Turmeric is a potent antioxidant, which means that it can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals and oxidative stress. Oxidative damage is believed to be one of the mechanisms behind ageing and many diseases. It involves free radicals, highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons. Free radicals tend to react with important organic substances, such as fatty acids, proteins, or DNA. The main reason antioxidants are so beneficial is that they protect your body from free radicals.
5. Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties
While more research is needed, some studies have suggested that curcumin may have anti-cancer properties. It could also help to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells. But most evidence about turmeric and cancer comes from studies on animals or cells in the lab. With those studies, it’s not clear what these studies mean for people who have cancer or those who are trying to avoid getting it.
Turmeric Side Effects
While turmeric is safe for most people when enjoyed in tea or food, if you are allergic to the spice, eating it may cause a rash, hives or abdominal pain. Most of the side effects are associated with very high concentrations of curcumin found in supplements (pills, capsules and gummies).
How to Enjoy Turmeric
Because turmeric is a plant in the ginger family, it also looks and tastes similar to ginger. So, just treat fresh, raw turmeric like you would with a knob of fresh ginger—just peel it, then slice, dice, or grate it. However, know that turmeric in all forms may stain anything it touches (hence its brilliant yellow colour).
Turmeric comes in a variety of forms, including raw and powder forms. With an earthy, bitter flavour, this bold-tasting herb can spice up your cooking and add vibrant colour to foods. The many ways to eat it range from curries, soups, and scrambled eggs to smoothies, marinades, and muffins. Although you can eat and cook with it, the body does not easily absorb it. You can find a more potent form of this herb in turmeric supplements.
Overall, turmeric is a powerful spice that offers a range of health benefits and is a great addition to a healthy diet.
