Health Benefits of Turmeric
Health Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric, also known as the golden spice, is a bright yellow spice typically used to flavor and color various cuisines. It comes with an earthly aroma with a slightly peppery and bitter flavor profile with a subtle ginger taste. The spice contains three natural phytochemicals, including curcumin, which is the most researched of all. Multiple studies have found out that the phytochemical in this spice is safe, effective, and has several health benefits. Some outstanding health benefits include;
- Natural Anti-inflammatory Product
Inflammation is an essential process in the human body. It helps the body fight pathogens and stimulates the healing process. Without inflammation, bacteria and other foreign invaders can infect the body, causing death. Despite this importance, only low-level or chronic inflammation is beneficial.
That said, any component that helps in fighting chronic inflammation is beneficial in preventing and treating these diseases. According to the Arthritis Foundation, turmeric is effective in reducing inflammation. Curcumin is a strong anti-inflammatory agent that can match the effectiveness of some known anti-inflammatory drugs.
The phytochemical works by blocking the body’s NF-kB; this plays a significant role in most chronic inflammatory conditions. Curcumin fights inflammation at molecular levels.
- Improves Brain Function and Reduces Risks of Brain Diseases
Curcumin plays an essential role in boosting brain-delivered neurotrophic factors, which improves brain functions and reduces the risks of developing brain diseases. Initially, it was thought that brain neurons couldn’t divide or multiply after childhood. However, recent studies have concluded that this happens even in adulthood. Neurons can form new connections, multiply and increase in number.
For these brain processes to continue, neurotrophic factors (BDNF), which are growth hormones in the brain, are a prerequisite. Deficiency in these hormones is the reason behind most brain disorders, including depression and Alzheimer’s disease. Fortunately, curcumin significantly increases the brain levels of BDNF. This makes it effective in delaying and reversing several brain diseases and age-associated decreased brain function. Curcumin also improves memory and makes an individual smarter.
- Improves Digestion
One of the reasons why turmeric is included as curry powder when cooking, is because it adds some deliciousness to food. However, that aside, turmeric plays a significant role in digesting food as well. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of this compound make it an excellent contributor to healthy digestion.
Experts in Ayurvedic medicine also use it as a digestive healing agent. Recent studies have also tried to link turmeric’s effects in treating gut inflammation and permeability, which are the crucial measures of digestive efficiency. It is also being studied as a possible treatment alternative for irritable bowel syndrome.
Bottom Line
Turmeric, with curcumin as its active compound, has several scientifically proven health benefits. This golden spice significantly boosts the body’s immune health, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, relieves arthritic pain, and aids in digestion. However, even with these benefits, observe great caution before using it to treat any health condition. Despite that, there is no limit or recommended dosage instructions; some people experience nausea and diarrhea when they take excessive amounts. Be wary of such negligible side effects.
