In the realm of natural remedies, turmeric has long been celebrated as a potent healer. Its roots in traditional medicine go back hundreds of thousands of years. Turmeric is not only known for its medicinal properties but also for its culinary uses. What's fascinating is that its versatility continues beyond there. Recently, turmeric's importance due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties has become known worldwide. Researchers are developing novel formulations incorporating curcumin or turmeric for a broad spectrum of uses, sparking curiosity and eagerness to explore its potential further.
What is the active ingredient in turmeric that offers health benefits?
Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, belongs to the ginger family Zingiberaceae. The rhizomes of Curcuma are harvested and dried to form a powder, which is generally used in cooking and other medicinal preparations. The primary active ingredient present in turmeric is curcumin. By neutralising free radicals, curcumin helps protect cells from damage and supports overall health. Moreover, its potent anti-inflammatory properties make it a promising aid in managing conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders. Tetrahydrocurcumin is one of the derivatives of curcumin. Unlike conventional curcumin, which is yellow, tetrahydrocurcmin is a whitish or pale yellow powder. Tetrahydrocurcmin also has de-pigmentation properties.
Top 5 Health Benefits Of Turmeric
As we already know, turmeric has a lot of benefits; here are a few mentioned benefits:
Anti-inflammatory: Curcumin is widely known for its anti-inflammatory action. It reduces chronic inflammation, which is linked to various diseases, such as Cancer, Alzheimer's, and other degenerative conditions.
Anti-oxidant: Turmeric elevates the activity of the body's antioxidant enzymes, providing a double defence against free radicals.
Cancer prevention: Curcumin can halt the spread of cancer and reduce angiogenesis (growth of blood vessels in tumours).
Pain relief: It can help in reducing muscle soreness or arthritis pain.
Improved gut health: Studies show that turmeric can help alleviate the symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It also increases bile production, resulting in better digestion and less bloating.
Antifungal: India has traditionally used turmeric for its wound-healing properties. Turmeric's antifungal properties are also used to cure acne and mouth ulcers.
How To Consume Turmeric Daily?
Including turmeric daily in our daily life can be beneficial in more than one way. Here are some quick tips:
Cooking: A pinch of turmeric in food, such as soups, curries, and eggs, will boost your immune system. You can also add turmeric to your rice or quinoa to give a vibrant colour and subtle earthy flavour.
Beverages: Warm milk mixed with turmeric and honey can soothe throat infections and help you sleep better at night. Turmeric tea and a combination of fresh fruit smoothies with curcumin are also better options. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy turmeric-infused beverages. They will not only hydrate but also curb turmeric's healing benefits, making them ideal companions in this summery weather.
Supplements: A variety of turmeric supplements, like tablets and capsules, are available on the market. However, it is important to consult your doctor before eating them.
DIY turmeric mask: Applying turmeric with milk on the face and body can help rejuvenate your skin. It is also known for its exfoliating properties. A few traditional practices include applying turmeric powder directly on the wounded area to cease any further bacterial or fungal infection.
What Are The Possible Side Effects?
Although turmeric is safe in most people, a large dose of intake might be harmful. Here are a few possible side effects of turmeric:
Gastrointestinal issues: Eating large amounts of turmeric can lead to nausea, diarrhoea, and acid reflux. Some people might also experience bloating.
Allergies: Turmeric may also cause skin allergies, such as rash or redness. It is always recommended to perform a skin patch test before applying it to a large surface of your body. While it is rare to have food allergies due to turmeric, if you show any symptoms, always consult your doctor immediately.
Gall bladder issues: As turmeric influences the production of bile, it can exacerbate gallstones or bile duct destruction.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Some studies show that taking copious amounts of turmeric during pregnancy or lactation can result in a risk of uterine contractions.
To conclude, turmeric stands as a beacon of natural healing that offers numerous benefits, from its anti-inflammatory properties to its ability to help us digest. From soothing drinks to enhancing daily meals, incorporating turmeric into our daily lives helps us lead a healthier and more vibrant life. However, always remember that moderation is the key and embrace this versatile spice in balanced amounts.
