Turmeric and its unique yellow color are alien to none. The way it colors our dishes and skin is just amazing. Most of us might know about its rich history suiting its hue. Eastern philosophers are known to base their medications and potions on the various benefits of turmeric. Explore the incredible health benefits of turmeric In this Article.
While we think almost all of you are well aware of it, we would still like to think that at least some are unversed and for those, we present our article. As you may have guessed by now, this one will talk elaborately about turmeric and how it has been beneficial to humans for centuries to come.
10 health benefits of turmeric
Turmeric is an Indian spice whose roots are considered to be extremely valuable. The strong yellow color and its pleasant odor make it popular among skincare lovers as well as healers. These days turmeric is used in multiple products including talcum powders and scrubs. However, let’s look at the main benefits that can make it stand out
1. Powerful anti-inflammatory properties
It has always been a part of ancient medicinal disciplines such as Ayurveda and Unani. If you are wondering why, we are about to tell you why! Not only does it have an irresistible fragrance, but it is also known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties. Many times our organs and tissues can undergo swelling when we ingest toxins through food, but eating turmeric can destroy or dissipate the toxin and make the product healthy for us.
2. Anti-oxidant property
Its curcumin content leaves it potent enough to fight off free radical cells and prevent their deoxygenation, and flush with enough oxygen so that they don’t lead to multiple problems.
3. Joint health
Many of us could be living lives in excruciating pain and this is especially true for the elderly. As they grow old their joints and muscles start deteriorating which leads to diseases such as arthritis and rheumatism. However, turmeric is known to strengthen the joints and make them less prone to ailments of this nature.
Related Article: Turmeric And Joint Health – Is Turmeric Good For Joint Pain?
4. Digestive Health
Again the curcumin in turmeric kills the harmful bacteria in the stomach that may prevent it from performing to the optimum level. It also helps smoothen the release of gastric acids and ensures optimum digestion.
5. Liver health
Turmeric supports the secretion of bile and other gastric acids, a blockage that could lead to various problems including disproportionate blood sugar levels. And as we all know irregular levels of sugar can lead to diabetes.
6. Heart health
It is known that the heart is primarily affected by the increase in cholesterol levels that block the passages in them. This could restrict the blood flow and lead to heart attacks as well. Eating turmeric can lower the chances of this significantly.
7. Brain health
The brain is the ruler of our body and when it breaks down most of us cannot survive therefore to keep the neurons healthy, neurotransmitters flowing, and nerve endings prompt, consuming turmeric is considered to be ideal.
8. Cancer
This is new but there are pieces of evidence to support the claim that it can prevent cancer. Though how it can affect us alone is still a puzzle, it can work in tandem with other active compounds and be effective.
9. Skin health
Most of the organic soaps, lotions, and creams have turmeric in them which helps the skin retain its natural oils and even prevent toxins from working on the layers.
10. Anti-aging properties
If there is an elixir it would probably have turmeric in it as it is already known to have anti-aging properties by helping us get back the lost collagen. Collagen ensures our skin is elastic and also displays the luster it showcases.
How to consume turmeric for health benefits?
Consuming turmeric for health benefits can be done in the following ways:
1. Turmeric latte– To make this, one has to warm milk which could be dairy or plant-based, add a teaspoon of turmeric, and then some sugar if you want to. You could also garnish it with saffron.
2. Turmeric tea– Brewing the tea is a soothing process in itself and can be extremely beneficial when it has turmeric in it. To brew the tea, add a root of turmeric to the hot water after removing its skin. Now add equal parts of ginger, lemon, and honey. Strain it and then the tea is good to go.
3. Smoothies– You could either make a smoothie by mixing the roots with some milk and cream or add a pinch of powder to the already-made smoothie of your choice.
4. Curries and soups– Every curry and soup can be garnished with 1-2 teaspoons of turmeric powder. However, you must be careful to use the organic ones and not the ones with additives.
5. Roasted veg/tables– Choose an assortment of vegetables that are healthy and roast them with a pinch of turmeric and salt to get the perfect stirfry.
6. Salad dressings– A salad could perhaps use some color and turmeric would be the best way to add some natural color to it.
7. Turmeric paste– Making a fresh paste from the roots of turmeric could have multiple uses. This could be applied on the skin as well as used in some dishes you may want to prepare.
8. Turmeric supplements– You should be careful before consuming this and may want to talk to a doctor before eating tablets or supplements with turmeric in them
Read More: Is It Safe To Take Curcumin Daily? Exploring The Benefits
Conclusion
Now that we are familiar with the specialty of turmeric as an anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory. Though it has so many benefits, it might not work for everyone. One should also believe that consistency is what will help you to achieve the desired results.
However, the dosage and the frequency should be left to your dietitian and doctors to deal with. Using it in casual curries and soups once in a while is not what we are talking about but sprinkling it in curries in reckless amounts just because you want to get rid of something. Always eat it minimally.
References
- Adhvaryu M. R., Reddy N., Vakharia B. C. (2008). Prevention of hepatotoxicity due to anti tuberculosis treatment: a novel integrative approach. World J. Gastroenterol. 14, 4753–4762. 10.3748/wjg.14.4753 [PMC free article]
- Abdeldaiem M. (2014). Use of Yellow Pigment Extracted from Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) Rhizomes Powder as Natural Food Preservative. Am. J. Food Sci. Technol. 2, 36–47. 10.12691/ajfst-2-1-6 [CrossRef]
