Turmeric is one of the very effective nutrients that exist. A lot of studies have proven the tremendous health benefits of turmeric. And Curcumin is the main active ingredient present in turmeric responsible for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-carcinogenic, anti-oxidant and many more other benefits.
Turmeric is a golden spice of India, and did you know that India is the number one consumer, producer and exporter of turmeric powder. Although turmeric is the most common spice found in every kitchen in the world, yes in every kitchen. But Asian kitchens have expanded their purpose of using turmeric for its extensive health benefits.
It is in use for thousands of years, and if I talk about the medicinal benefits of turmeric, it reduces the inflammation and oxidative stress on the body. Turmeric is a major part of Ayurveda, Siddha, Traditional Chinese and Unani medicine.
Types of turmeric
There are four types of turmeric:
- Curcuma Longa
- Mango ginger or Curcuma Aromatica
- Curcuma zedoaria
- Berberis Aristata
Not all of these types are edible because Curcuma zedorea, or wild turmeric, is used for colouring. Curcuma L. is mainly used for eating purposes and Berberis aristata has medicinal values.
What are the benefits of turmeric powder and root?
Turmeric has spiritual significance in Indian culture, it is mostly used on every auspicious occasion. It is commonly found in kitchens and is famous for making home remedies.
The healing properties of turmeric make it unique. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very robust antioxidant. Apart from this, turmeric also contains vitamin A, minerals and proteins.
Keep on reading to know the health benefits of turmeric and how you can make the most out of it.
1.Turmeric benefits for skin
Indians have been using turmeric for glowing skin for centuries. A special turmeric ‘Ubtan’ is applied before the wedding to brighten the skin of the bride and groom.
Turmeric helps to clear off acne and scars and is also beneficial in reducing inflammation in psoriasis.
2. Benefits for hairs
Have you ever thought that you can treat your scalp with turmeric, I am sure, no. Well, let me tell you turmeric not only treat dandruff but also reduce hair greying.
You can mix turmeric with apple cider vinegar or coconut oil, apply and leave on for an hour and wash off with a mild shampoo under tap water. Don’t forget to write your feedback in the comment section.
3. Turmeric benefits for Psoriasis
In psoriasis, the skin begins to scab over and there may also be a problem of itching with red rashes. Turmeric has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, due to which it can prove to be helpful in quick healing of skin wounds due to psoriasis.
4. Liver detoxification with curcumin
Curcumin is dietary supplement and protects liver from hepatic injuries caused by alcohol, oxidative liver disease, liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.
According to a study consuming a significant amount of curcumin in the daily diet or as a dietary supplement may provide true prevention and treatment for liver disorders with restricted therapeutic options.
5. Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory compound
Curcumin is a effective anti-inflammatory agent that help our body to fight chronic inflammation and prevent many inflammatory diseases like arthritis. Alzheimer’s, asthma and cancer.
One should use turmeric regularly in the diet or take curcumin supplements.
6. Curcumin benefits for heart
This amazing compound curcumin has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-thrombotic, and cardiovascular protective effects.
It can reduce serum cholesterol levels and protect against atherosclerosis which is one of the major causes of heart attacks.
According to a study, curcumin can also prevent cardiac deaths and is helpful in cardiac hypertrophy.
Seriously, nature has given us a lot of valuable remedies right in our kitchen but we have been stuck with our taste buds and invite diseases.
7. Turmeric may prevent cancer
Although a lot of studies are active to find how exactly turmeric s effective in cancerous cases. Studies have revealed that curcumin is the most promising group of bioactive compounds that help in treating several types of cancer.
Try to take turmeric with black pepper to increase its absorption.
8. Curcumin as an anti-ageing supplement
Providing so many benefits like prevention of arthritis, cardiovascular protection, anticancer and anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric improves health quality, which may aid longevity.
9. Turmeric improves digestion
Turmeric helps in improving digestion due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Berberis aristata has a great use in Ayurvedic formulations designed to improve digestion. It also helps with irritable bowel syndrome.
10. Antiseptic benefits of turmeric
Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent that works as an effective disinfectant. Before any other antiseptic products in the market, our ancestors has used turmeric as a antiseptic wash.
They were using turmeric as a topical treatment and a Turmeric latte or Golden milk to heal the wound.
Turmeric side effects
Excess of everything is bad and this phrase goes with turmeric as well. Recommended dose of turmeric is 500-2000mg per day.
Excessive dose or overconsumption of turmeric may cause few side effects like :
- Kidney stones
- Bleeding disorder
- Hypoglycemia
- Skin dryness
- Impair iron absorption
- It may cause gall bladder disease
Remember above-mentioned side effects are due to overconsumption of turmeric. As per guidelines an individual should consume at least one tablespoon of turmeric every day.
If you are taking blood thinners then do not take high doses of turmeric.
Best turmeric supplements
Turmeric supplements are potent extracts of turmeric. Make sure that if you are choosing a turmeric supplement, mix it with black pepper for better absorption.
Here are few best picks ups from HealthMonastery :
1. Gaia Herbs, Turmeric with Black Pepper*
This vegan Gaia Herb Turmeric* is a great choice for whole-body vitality and healthy response. It is a combination of curcumin and black pepper already, which improves its absorption.
2. Garden of Life Turmeric and Black Pepper Supplement*
This is also a great amazing pick, Garden of Life turmeric* is a pure curcumin extract from turmeric root that supports the body’s anti-inflammatory response. It comprises probiotics and black pepper to increase curcumin absorption and improve digestion.
I hope you all will include turmeric and curcumin in proper quantity to get the health benefits. You can send your queries and leave a comment below with your feedback. Be sure to sign up for my free newsletter to be the first to get new posts! You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.
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