Turmeric, also known as the Indian saffron and the golden spice, is a plant that grows in India and other parts of Southeast Asia. It’s cultivated from the roots of a flowering part and proves to have many beneficial properties for human health. The primary active component of turmeric is curcumin, a spice widely used for cooking and medication. Along with giving curry a vibrant yellow color, this component has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
However, this is not all there is to turmeric. This herb has many benefits and is recommended widely as a treatment for different medical conditions. In the following sections, we bring out more information about the plant, including the most important health benefits of turmeric, potential side effects, and some popular plant usages. Hopefully, the review will help you determine whether this plant will be beneficial for your particular purposes.
History of the Herb
The usage of turmeric dates back 4000 years to the Vedic culture in India, where it was used as a culinary spice. According to some studies, it was used in Ayurvedic traditional medicine for the first time for treating conditions such as food poisoning. Afterwards, turmeric served as a general-purpose herb for relieving pain, treating skin conditions, and much more.
Turmeric grows in tropical climates because it needs a temperature range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. It’s cultivated from rhizomes, or roots, of the plant that matures in the ground. When plant roots dry completely, they are crushed into a yellow powder that is further on used either as a medicine or a food spice.
Turmeric powder has a bitter yet sweet taste and makes a great addition to meals. It’s most commonly used as an ingredient in curry, but it can be found in capsules, teas, extracts, and other powder products as well.
Health Benefits of Turmeric
Anti-Inflammatory Compound
One of the main benefits of turmeric is its effectiveness against inflammation. Some studies show that the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties are almost more effective than those of ibuprofen and aspirin. Because chronic inflammation follows and adds up to chronic diseases, turmeric helps with treating conditions such as arthritis, pancreatitis, and more. The plant also might prevent various diseases when taken regularly. We’ll give a broader explanation below.
Powerful Antioxidant
Antioxidants are substances that protect your body cells against free radicals, which play a role in conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Your body produces free radicals while breaking down food or when exposed to tobacco smoke and radiation.
Turmeric is known to be a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals. It’s also easy to digest because it comes in the form of a powder. In fact, turmeric is a spice that adds amazing flavor to meals, and most people use it without even knowing about the plant’s health benefits.
Promotes Healthy Functioning
Turmeric also may help with brain disorders that occur due to decreased levels of the BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) hormone. The plant increases levels of BDNF, which is incredibly beneficial for different brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function. Although there’s no proof that turmeric can reverse conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, it does seem to help. For example, scientists noticed that the plant shows promise in treating major depressive disorders.
Reduces Risks of Diseases
Turmeric also may help in regulating blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. Because of the anti-inflammatory properties, it may also play a role in preventing cancer and type 2 diabetes. However, keep in mind that the overall effectiveness of turmeric in treating these conditions is not yet proven. Scientists need to perform more tests and researches to claim with certainty the general effect of turmeric on these health conditions.
Treats Skin Conditions
Lastly, because of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric may be a beneficial treatment for different skin conditions. Some people use it for treating acne, eczema, and psoriasis. However, turmeric has a bright yellow color, which makes it quite unappealing.
When it comes to general use, most people make turmeric balms for smoothing skin, removing imperfections, and healing wounds. If you want to try out turmeric for these purposes, you can take a look at some of these turmeric skin mask recipes.
Getting the Most Out of Turmeric
The key to releasing the full potential of turmeric as medicine might lie in the way you consume it. There are several options to taking the plant, and the most common ones include using the powder as a spice. That way, the plant releases all its potentials to the fullest and is easy to digest.
We recommend adding a pinch of turmeric in daily meals, just so you can taste the flavor and see whether it works for you. You can start by adding the powder to soups, rice, and tea. Once you determine what amount is perfect for you, experiment with other foods and beverages such as vegetables and smoothies. Here are some delicious recipes that include turmeric.
Why Choose Turmeric Vegetarian Capsules from Greenbush Natural Products
The most efficient way to take turmeric in high doses is by specially formulated capsules and extracts. Greenbush offers just a pack to boost the immune system and ensure easy plant intake. Unlike most commercial herb-based packs, this one contains a single-herb supplement for ultimate efficiency. The Greenbush Turmeric capsules don’t have any fillers or additives. They are made from pure and potent herbs and are safe for human consumption.
When it comes to the intake, Greenbush recommends taking one capsule up to three times a day. You’ll get instructions depending on your personal needs, so you’ll know how much to take.
Why choose Greenbush products, you may ask? The company has a long history of delivering top-notch natural products to its customers. It has earned its high place on the market by producing completely natural, herb-based products without any additives and harmful supplements. Also, Greenbush is open to give any information about its products. You can contact the company at any time and find out more about its products.
Commonly Asked Questions About Turmeric
Last but not least, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about turmeric. Hopefully, that will give you even better insight into all the health benefits of turmeric, as well as the proper usage and recommended intake. Our overall goal with this section is to cover all the possible doubts on using the plant and make sure you know how to use it.
Is curcumin the same as turmeric?
No, curcumin is just one component extracted from turmeric, which is derived from a root of a plant known as Curcuma Longa. Curcumin probably got its name from this scientific name for turmeric. Now, turmeric holds some other components, but scientists are not yet sure what all of them are.
What is turmeric used for in India?
In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is primarily used for skin conditions, particularly skin infections. It also serves as medication for coughs, colds, and liver tonic. Turmeric is also given to patients as an anti-ich medicine and a drug that treats urinary tract infections, gout, and even hemorrhoids.
As you can see, Ayurvedic medicine uses turmeric for a wide range of purposes. However, the plant is also used as a food coloring and flavoring spice and a dye for fabrics. Because of its vibrant yellow color, turmeric is a very popular dye in India.
Are there any side effects of turmeric?
Turmeric is safe for most people when consumed in light and medium doses and mixed with food. However, there might be some side effects for those who take highly concentrated supplements.
- Among the mild side effects people experience are stomach upset, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. These are not serious and tend to pass quickly. They are most commonly caused by intake of high doses.
- High doses of the plant can lower blood sugar and blood pressure, which means people with diabetes and low blood pressure should be extra careful with it.
- Turmeric is also not recommended for people preparing for surgery because it might increase the risk of bleeding.
- Another potential risk arises when taking turmeric during pregnancy because the plant tends to promote menstrual periods and stimulate the uterus.
- You should also take turmeric carefully if you have gallbladder problems or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What is the recommended turmeric dosage?
The turmeric dosage is recommended depending on the overall health and medical condition of each individual. It can vary between 500 and 2,000 mg per day. The most effective way to take such a high dosage of turmeric is by extracts and capsules. The laboratory processed plant is more concentrated than spice, but the powder used in foods is safer for long term use. High doses of turmeric are not recommended for extended use.
Is it safe to take turmeric every day?
Yes, turmeric is safe to use every day but in small doses. As we mentioned above, when used as a spice, the powder can be added to foods and meals regularly. However, in higher doses, it can cause some side effects and requires careful intake.
Can turmeric help you lose weight?
Because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric is highly recommended for dietary purposes. By reducing high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, the plant promotes a healthy metabolism. It seems that turmeric also suppresses fat tissue growth when taken regularly. Furthermore, turmeric is an easy-to-take supplement that doesn’t interfere with other foods but gives them a better, bitter-sweet taste.
Will turmeric interact with drugs and other supplements?
Turmeric shouldn’t interact with other herb-based supplements and drugs, but we still recommend caution. If you already take some medication, don’t forget to talk with your doctor or pharmacist. A health provider will know if there’s any interaction between turmeric and the drugs you’re already taking or planning to take in the future.
Especially take care if you’re using anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs, diabetes medications, and medications changed by the liver.
Health Benefits of Turmeric – Know Your Options To Feeling Your Best Naturally
Overall, turmeric is a powerful supplement that brings many benefits to the human immune system. By adding the powder to daily meals, people can significantly improve their health and potentially prevent some serious diseases. The golden spice relieves pain, enhances metabolism, and promotes weight loss. When used highly-concentrated, turmeric supplements can show improvements in overall health rather quickly.
However, it’s essential to take the supplement carefully and in proper doses. Everyone who wants to try turmeric should firstly consult a healthcare provider. It’s crucial to highlight medical conditions to make sure turmeric will help without causing side effects. Although there are many health benefits of turmeric, it should still be taken carefully and responsibly.
*INDIVIDUAL RESULTS MAY VARY. STATEMENTS IN THIS WEBSITE HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THE FDA DOES NOT EVALUATE OR TEST HERBS AND HEALTH FOODS. THESE PRODUCTS ARE NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. FOR DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN. USE HERBS IN MODERATION AND WATCH FOR ALLERGIC REACTIONS. REMEMBER THAT DIET, EXERCISE AND RELAXATION ARE EQUALLY IMPORTANT TO YOUR HEALTH.