Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in India and other Asian countries. It’s best known for its ability to add flavor to food, but it also has many health benefits! From its anti-inflammatory properties to its ability to reduce cancer risk, turmeric has been shown to do many good things for your health. In this article, we’ll explore some of the proven health benefits of turmeric.

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a plant whose root can be used as a spice. It comes from the same family as ginger, and it has similarly pungent flavors. The two are often compared since they’re both common spices in many Asian cuisines. Turmeric is a spice that most commonly comes from India and has been used for cooking in the region for at least 4000 years! With its bright yellow color, turmeric powder can add flavor and visual appeal to recipes such as curry dishes.

Turmeric was also traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine (a holistic system of health native to South Asia) where its medicinal properties were employed by healthcare practitioners. Today, small studies have begun looking into some of the potential benefits of including this herb in our diets whether we currently suffer from certain medical conditions or not; after all, turmeric has been used for centuries and is generally safe to consume.

The Health Benefits of Turmeric

Improves Memory

One study showed that turmeric improved memory function in rats. This is likely due to the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the brain from damage. It also has anti-oxidant properties, which can help keep the brain healthy. According to studies, curcumin’s antioxidant qualities and brain inflammation reduction resulted in less cognitive deterioration. Curcumin may also contribute to the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, although more study is needed in this area.

Lowers Risk Of Heart Disease

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties might help reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that turmeric and curcumin can reduce the buildup of plaques in arteries, which may help prevent heart attacks. This plant extract has also been found to help lower LDL cholesterol levels without lowering HDL (good) cholesterol levels. If you already have heart disease, turmeric and curcumin may help lower your risk of a stroke.

Lowers Cancer Risk

Turmeric might also reduce the risk of certain cancers thanks to its antioxidant properties. It can protect cells from free radicals that cause damage and mutation. This is especially important in preventing prostate, lung, breast, stomach, and colon cancer because these are all associated with oxidative stress caused by inflammation; it’s thought that curcumin helps prevent this oxidative stress-induced cell damage. Some studies suggest that turmeric could even kill existing tumor cells!

Helps Fight Depression

Turmeric has been shown to reduce depression by an average of 42% in people with mild to moderate stress and anxiety. This is thought to be due to turmeric’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s believed that curcumin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions reduce stress by inhibiting the release of certain neurotransmitters.

Improves Liver Health

Curcumin might help protect your liver from damage caused by toxins, heavy metals, alcohol abuse, or other factors like obesity; it may also improve liver function in people with chronic hepatitis C infections. Turmeric can even prevent some types of chemical-induced liver cancers! While more studies are needed on humans before turmeric is used as a treatment for these conditions, there have been promising results so far.

Lowers Risk Of Diabetes

It has also been found that curcumin can help lower blood sugar levels in people with type II diabetes, according to a 2012 study published in the “Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine.” The research showed that patients who took an extract containing 95% curcumin had reduced fasting blood sugar, improved cholesterol levels, and decreased markers for inflammation associated with obesity compared with those given placebo pills. A number of other studies have shown that taking turmeric or curcumin supplements may improve glycemic control in diabetics.

Improves Skin Health

Turmeric is a common ingredient in Indian cosmetics because its anti-oxidant properties can protect cells from damage caused by pollutants and UV rays. It also fights acne thanks to antibacterial qualities that reduce inflammation associated with breakouts. If you have sensitive skin, adding turmeric or curcumin supplements to your diet may be helpful for treating eczema as well as improving general irritation from rashes or other blemishes.

Helps fight Inflammation

Taking turmeric may be beneficial for persistent conditions that cause inflammation to spread throughout your body. It can help fight against autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory effect of turmeric can be attributed to curcumin’s ability to inhibit the expression of several genes involved in inflammation regulation. If you’re looking for a natural way to reduce inflammation, adding turmeric or curcumin supplements to your diet may be the solution you’ve been searching for!

Side Effects Of Turmeric And Curcumin

Turmeric and curcumin supplements are generally considered safe for adults to take as long as they’re used in normal dosages. In rare cases, turmeric can cause nausea or diarrhea because of its similar effect on the digestive tract compared with certain types of medication like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If you have a history of gallstones, talk with your doctor before taking turmeric since it might increase your risk of developing stones.

Curcumin may also interfere with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin; if you’re currently taking any prescriptions that affect bleeding times, discuss adding curcumin to your daily regimen with your prescribing physician. Note: It’s important to speak about all medications and herbal remedies you’re taking with your doctor before you start adding turmeric or curcumin to your diet.

How To Incorporate Turmeric and Curcumin In Your Diet?

There are a number of ways to add turmeric and curcumin supplements to your diet. You can find them in capsule or tablet form at most health food stores, or you could try adding the fresh root to soups, stews, or rice dishes. Just be sure not to overcook it since heat can destroy some of the beneficial compounds. If you’re looking for an easy way to get more turmeric into your life, consider mixing up a Golden Milk Latte using almond milk, honey, and turmeric powder—it’s delicious and incredibly good for you!

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a number of amazing benefits to taking turmeric or curcumin supplements. Whether you’re looking for ways to stop inflammation, reduce your risk of chronic disease, or protect yourself from environmental damage and free radicals—this powerful anti-inflammatory spice has the power to help you achieve optimal wellness and health!