For centuries, turmeric has been revered for its earthy and slightly peppery flavor, adding the perfect aromatic kick to any dish. But this golden spice from India is not just prized for its taste. It contains curcumin, a compound that delivers many therapeutic benefits. The unique combination of delectable flavor and wellness properties makes turmeric an exceptional ingredient inside and outside the kitchen. Let’s look at some of the most common ways turmeric promotes optimal health and well-being.
Stomach pain
Turmeric offers the potential to improve gastrointestinal health. It boasts natural antibacterial compounds that eradicate harmful bacteria in the stomach lining. Turmeric-infused beverages such as turmeric latte are known to potentially reduce the discomfort that is typically associated with excessive gas and bloating. Incorporating this natural remedy into your wellness routine or diet can potentially improve your gut health and well-being. Just make sure that you do not use it directly. Taking the spice alone, without some extra ingredients, like milk, can make your stomach pain worse.
High cholesterol
Studies show that curcumin could potentially play a crucial role in reducing high blood lipid levels and enhancing the overall performance of the cardiovascular system. This potent compound protects the heart and other vital components of the cardiovascular system from free radical proliferation caused by chronic disease and the natural aging process. With regular consumption of turmeric in fresh or powder form, individuals can reduce bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels over time.
If you take a look at the numerous products on the market meant to help you lose weight, you will see that many have turmeric or curcumin in them. It is because of the effect of the spice on bad cholesterol levels.
Mouth ulcers
Our ancestors used turmeric for centuries as a potent natural remedy for mouth ulcers. This age-old cure has potential anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate the discomfort and pain typically associated with active mouth ulcers and canker sores. Besides consuming turmeric, mouth sore sufferers may apply turmeric paste directly onto the affected area to speed up the healing process.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a medical condition that can cause debilitating symptoms that reduce a patient’s quality of life. Individuals seeking an all-natural and safe treatment can turn to turmeric to potentially manage its debilitating symptoms. Numerous studies reveal that osteoarthritis patients consuming turmeric regularly reported significantly reduced discomfort. Additionally, patients note that regular turmeric supplementation helped improve their overall functionality over the long term.
We need to add that turmeric was also shown to help with rheumatoid arthritis. And, although we do need to know more to come to a conclusion and discuss other types of arthritis, there is a possibility turmeric will help with arthritis as a whole, especially when referring to dealing with the discomfort.
Psoriasis
Studies reveal that topical application of turmeric paste in individuals with plaque psoriasis has significantly improved their quality of life. Curcumin extract helped soothe persistent pain and itching and improve skin cell production. Applying turmeric paste regularly on affected skin has been shown to potentially affect the protein directly involved with the overproduction of skin cells in psoriatic patients.
Heart Disease
The curcumin present in turmeric is very important for our health and it can help improve our heart health. This is because of improving endothelial function, which practically means making the membrane covering our blood vessels and the heart’s inside stronger. The membrane is vital when we want to have regular blood pressure.
People who have low endothelial function have a higher risk of developing heart disease. Turmeric will help protect our bodies from loss of function associated with age. And as an extra benefit, we reduce the possibility of being affected by heart disease. But, it has to be highlighted that more scientific research is necessary in order to be 100% sure that long-term use of curcumin is safe when you suffer from heart disease.
Diabetes
Turmeric has been shown to potentially prevent diabetes or even treat it. Also, some associated disorders can be positively affected, like diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy).
The problem is that we are not 100% sure that these effects will work on people. Most studies conducted until now were done on animals. However, this does not mean that you cannot try it and see if there are positive results. The trick is to use turmeric in your meals for at least 16 weeks. If you see that your blood insulin levels go down, you know it works for you.
Just make sure that you never substitute regular medication with anything alternative, including the use of turmeric.
Depression
Similarly to Alzheimer’s, the wide-spread depression problem humanity has is often associated with low BDNF levels. Turmeric has a natural ability to quickly boost BDNF levels. We are thus faced with a very promising premise of helping people affected by depression.
There was a study done on humans published in the recognized Phytotherapy Research magazine. In it, it was shown that there are improvements in people with depression using turmeric as an anti-depressant option. The effects of the spice were compared to the popular medication Prozac, with very positive results.
The problem is that we do not understand how turmeric helps in treating the condition of the century. There is more research needed. But, we have to highlight that it could work in your case. Just make sure that you talk to your practitioner so that they know and there is no potential negative interaction with the medication you take.
Conclusion
Before you begin using turmeric for any of the conditions listed above, it is best to consult with your doctor first. During your visit, your doctor will determine whether you have allergies to any of turmeric’s bioactive compounds. Additionally, your doctor can help identify the most effective dosage and form for your specific needs. When buying fresh turmeric or turmeric supplements, it is crucial to be discerning. Only purchase from reputable sellers to ensure that it has sufficient bioactive compounds that can deliver maximum results. Lastly, turmeric supplements must be taken with meals to make them more bioavailable and easily metabolized by the body.
