Turmeric - What is Turmeric Good For?

Turmeric, or Curcuma longa, is a golden-orange spice that has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and cooking. Originating from Southeast Asia, it's a key ingredient in curry. But what is turmeric good for? Here, we explore the various benefits and uses of this fantastic spice.

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a root plant belonging to the ginger family. The active compound in turmeric is called curcumin, which possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric is used not only as a spice but also as a food supplement in the form of capsules and powders.

Turmeric's Health Benefits

Anti-inflammatory Properties

One of the most well-known benefits of turmeric is its anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that curcumin appears to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. It also contributes to the normal function of the immune system, the normal function of joints, and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

According to a 2008 study by Hatcher et al., published in Cell Mol Life Sci, turmeric is one of the most studied plants, with curcumin being the key compound possessing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Research by Greg Cole indicates that curcumin may protect the brain by inhibiting the formation of amyloid plaques in rodents. A 2013 study led by Small G confirms similar effects in humans, including reduced blood lipid levels and oxidative stress.

Professor Stig Bengmark from University College London highlights turmeric's anti-inflammatory effect through its regulation of up to 1,300 inflammation-driving genes. He notes that, unlike some anti-inflammatory drugs, turmeric has no reported harmful side effects. Turmeric contains about twenty anti-inflammatory substances, with curcumin being the most prominent, making it a safe and effective natural option for managing inflammation.

Antioxidant

Turmeric is rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body.

Turmeric as a Food Supplement

Taking turmeric as a food supplement can be a convenient way to benefit from its health properties. At Great Earth, we offer turmeric in capsule form, which you can find HERE. Our Turmeric contains the patented turmeric extract Curcumin C3 Complex®, which provides a high concentration of 95% curcuminoids – the active compounds in turmeric. Curcumin C3 Complex® is the most studied and clinically documented turmeric extract on the market. Our product also includes a black pepper extract to enhance the absorption of turmeric in the body.

Dosage and Use

It is important to follow the recommended dosage when taking turmeric food supplements.

Turmeric During Pregnancy

The use of turmeric during pregnancy is a topic that requires caution. While small amounts used in cooking are generally considered safe, it is best to consult a doctor before taking turmeric food supplements during pregnancy.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Turmeric

What is turmeric good for?

Turmeric is beneficial for several reasons; it contributes to the normal function of the immune system, the normal function of joints, and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

Can you take turmeric when pregnant?

It is best to consult a doctor before taking turmeric food supplements during pregnancy. Small amounts used in cooking are generally safe.

How should you take turmeric as a food supplement?

Turmeric can be taken as capsules or powder. Always follow the recommended dosage.

What is the difference between turmeric in cooking and as a food supplement?

Turmeric in cooking is used as a spice to add flavour and colour to dishes. Turmeric food supplements are concentrated forms of turmeric taken for their health benefits.

Summary

Turmeric is a versatile spice with several health benefits, from helping to manage inflammatory responses and combatting free radicals to supporting digestion and the immune system. Whether you choose to use turmeric in your cooking or as a food supplement, it can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.

Scientific References and Sources

Hatcher H, Planalp R, Cho J, Torti FM, Torti SV. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2008 Jun;65(11):1631-52. doi: 10.1007/s00018-008-7452-4. PMID: 18324353.

Cole GM, Teter B, Frautschy SA. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2007;595:197-212. doi: 10.1007/978-0-387-46401-5_8. PMID: 17569225.

Small GW, Siddarth P, Li Z, Miller KJ, Ercoli L, Emerson ND, Martinez J, Wong KP, Liu J, Merrill DA, Chen ST, Henning SM, Satyamurthy N, Huang SC, Heber D, Barrio JR. J Prev Alzh. Dis. 2018;5(3):175-183. doi: 10.14283/jpad.2018.15. PMID: 30056419.

Bengmark, Stig. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 30.1 (2006): 45-51.

Aggarwal, Bharat B., and Kuzhuvelil B. Harikumar. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology 41.1 (2009): 40-59.

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Aggarwal BB, Yuan W, Li S, Gupta SC. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2013 Sep;57(9):1529-42.