Turmeric is a perennial plant that belongs to the ginger family. It is commonly used as a culinary ingredient in Asia, yet it possesses medicinal properties which can help your body fight toxins, bacteria and inflammation.
With the powerful health benefits of turmeric, it is no question that it became a popular and staple herbal medicine across Asia. Turmeric has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
Medical science has also acknowledged that curcumin, the compound responsible for the color of turmeric, contains anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It has the ability to protect you from a host of major illnesses including arthritis, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
Here are some of the striking health benefits of turmeric that you should know:
1. Turmeric helps to prevent Alzheimer’s disease
Turmeric may help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease due to the potential health benefits it possesses. The component of turmeric responsible for this potential benefit is curcumin, which has been linked to positively affecting the brain and its cognitive functions.
Essentially, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric are believed to help in the prevention of inflammation of the inner part of the brain. It is a condition that is suspected to be one of the factors that lead to Alzheimer’s disease.
Research suggests that using turmeric extract as a supplement could have a positive effect on memory and thinking skills in those at risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. While more research is needed to understand the full extent of the impact that turmeric has on preventing Alzheimer’s, current evidence shows promise for its effectiveness in slowing down the development of this condition.
It is also important for individuals looking to use turmeric extract as a preventative measure to consult with their healthcare provider before doing so.
2. It helps to relieve pain due to arthritis
Turmeric can help to relieve pain due to rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric is also known to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that may also help in reducing the pain associated with arthritis.
Thus, it will be able to suppress pain caused by osteoarthritis. It is also capable of reducing inflammation caused by asthma.
The best way to take turmeric is as a supplement; however, it can also be added to food or consumed as tea.
The benefits of turmeric are numerous and include not only its ability to reduce pain from arthritis but also its potential in improving digestion, aid in weight loss, and help with skin conditions.
Taking turmeric on a regular basis may be beneficial for individuals who suffer from arthritis and who want to reduce the amount of pain they experience due to this condition.
3. Turmeric helps to prevent or destroy cancer cells
The use of turmeric may be able to help prevent and destroy cancer cells, leading to a reduced risk of cancer in individuals who use it as part of their diet.
According to recent studies, turmeric plays a big role in the process that involves the self-destruction and removal of cancer cells from your body. The efficacy of turmeric in fighting cancer is still being studied, but preliminary research indicates that it may have effects on destroying certain cancers.
Though more research is necessary, the current evidence suggests that turmeric can be a beneficial addition to one’s diet that could help lower the risk of developing certain types of cancers.
4. Use turmeric to fight colds and Flu
Turmeric is a popular supplement that many people take to help fight colds and flu. Due to its anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties, turmeric can help your body fight common infections such as colds, coughs and flu.
To ensure optimal absorption of turmeric, most people opt to take turmeric powder. Taking this powder gives you all the benefits turmeric has to offer, including its yellow color and health benefits.
Studies have shown that taking a turmeric supplement can reduce inflammation in the body and provide relief from cold and flu symptoms. It is important to consult with your physician before adding any supplement to your diet as it may interact with medications or other supplements you are taking.
5. It may help to prevent type-2 diabetes
This herbal medicine is a powerful spice that has been used for centuries to help people with many health conditions. Turmeric’s benefits are numerous, and its beneficial effects on your health can be seen in how it helps to prevent type-2 diabetes.
The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, gives it many of its health benefits including helping to reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which can help to prevent the onset of type-2 diabetes.
Studies have also found that turmeric can help to increase the secretion of pancreatic enzymes that can aid in reducing the risk of diabetes. The antioxidants present in turmeric also help to prevent type-2 diabetes with its ability to reduce insulin resistance.
Always keep in mind that adding turmeric to your diet is an easy way to benefit your health and lower your risk of developing type-2 diabetes.
6. Turmeric promotes the healing of cuts, wounds and boils
Turmeric is a spice known for its ability to promote the healing of cuts, wounds and boils. It is commonly used in many traditional medicines and has been studied extensively in recent years.
The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin in turmeric help to facilitate the fast healing of wounds, cuts, skin infections and boils. It can also help to promote the healing of internal injuries such as fractures and sprains.
Studies have shown that regular use of turmeric can help reduce inflammation and oxidation associated with chronic inflammation such as inflammatory bowel disease. It may also help to reduce pain and swelling caused by these conditions.
Turmeric has also been linked to improved cognitive functioning, heart health and even weight loss. With all its potential benefits, it’s no wonder why so many people are turning to the use of turmeric to promote their overall health and well-being.
Turmeric is available in powder or capsule supplements. You should consult a medical professional before taking supplements to ensure that you will get the best benefits they can give.
Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin: Which is best to take?
Turmeric and curcumin are both derived from the same plant, Curcuma longa. However, they are not the same thing.
In this part, we aim to shed light on how turmeric and curcumin differ from one another. By doing so, you will be able to maximize their benefits and avoid confusion on how they can improve your health.
Basically, turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking, while curcumin is a chemical compound found in turmeric that contains many health benefits.
Curcumin has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits, and taking a curcumin supplement can help to increase your intake of this beneficial compound.
Studies suggest that curcumin may have anti-inflammatory effects, may be able to reduce symptoms of depression, and may even be effective in treating certain types of cancer.
Some research also suggests that when used in combination with traditional medical treatments, curcumin was equally effective in treating certain diseases.
The benefits of turmeric and curcumin go far beyond general health; they have also been linked to improved cognitive function, reduced risk of heart disease, lower levels of inflammation in the body, and more. But what’s good is that both turmeric and curcumin offer numerous health benefits that can improve overall well-being.
How much Turmeric Should You Take?
Turmeric is a popular spice that is known to offer many benefits. Depending on your individual health needs, the amount of turmeric you should take daily can vary.
Generally speaking, most people are recommended to take between 400 and 600 mg of turmeric per day. However, it is important to keep in mind that high doses of turmeric may cause side effects such as nausea or indigestion.
It is best to start with lower doses and speak with your doctor about the right amount for you. Additionally, some people find that taking smaller amounts throughout the day helps them get the most out of their turmeric supplement.
These are some of the health benefits of turmeric. Make it a regular part of your daily diet and you will be rewarded with good health. You can visit our food blog posts to learn more about how you can do this.
