Introduction
According to Brown, the active component in turmeric is a polyphenolic natural substance called curcumin, which possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics.
According to Brown, not all curcumin’s biological functions are fully understood. Like other vibrant plant-based meals, turmeric is packed with phytonutrients that may buffer the body from harm by scavenging and neutralising free radicals (pollution, sunshine) and neutralising them. Preventing diseases like cancer & heart disease is linked to diets high in plant-based foods.
According to Brown, “Anyone attempting to manage inflammation might profit from adding a little turmeric to their foods.” She mentions inflammatory illnesses like allergies, infections, colitis, arthritis, and other joint problems.
The deep golden-orange spice known as turmeric gives food colour, flavour, and nutrients. Turmeric, an ancestor of ginger, is a native Asian herb whose rhizome (root) has been utilised for cooking for hundreds of years. It is also used in Ayurveda and other traditional medical practices in China and India.
Oncology clinical dietitian and nutritionist Mary-Eve Brown offers details on the health advantages of the spice turmeric, ways to use it in cooking, and two recipes that incorporate the spice.
The Science of Turmeric
Studies in the scientific community have focused on curcumin and other components of turmeric.According to some research findings, consuming turmeric in recipes decreased joint discomfort in osteoarthritis patients, according to Brown.
More research will be necessary to determine whether turmeric has any benefits for treating mood disorders, depression, or dementia.
Medicines containing turmeric
Turmeric pills, according to Brown, were likely not an excellent idea. Despite the potential beauty of turmeric’s nutritional advantages, too much curcumin can be harmful.
For instance, if kidney stones run in your family, taking turmeric pills may raise your risk of developing them. The substance in curcumin pills is far more than one would get from eating food seasoned with spice or drinking turmeric tea.
“Curcumin and other active components in turmeric are not bioavailable, which means the body does not quickly absorb them. Additionally, according to Brown, these healthy molecules are broken down by the digestive process and promptly eliminated.
Nutrient value
The typical dosage is 500 mg, taken twice daily with food. However, the amount that is best for you depends on your general health. Speak to your doctor because sometimes less is better.
Even though there is little chance of adverse effects and drug interactions, you should discontinue turmeric if you experience any adverse symptoms. Turmeric can trigger bloating; theoretically, it may interfere with drugs that prevent blood clotting. Additionally, if you have a gallbladder condition, avoid it.
Before beginning a nutritional supplement, always see your doctor because they can interact with your other prescriptions. Although it can support your current medical treatment, turmeric isn’t a substitute for medication.
Hopsecger advises that “no nutritional supplement can replace prescription drugs or even a healthy diet.” “Taking a curcumin supplement won’t do anything miraculous if your diet is poor,” the author states.
The advantages of turmeric
| It acts as a natural pain reliever |
| Turmeric’s primary compound, curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory properties |
| Possesses antioxidant qualities |
| It might lessen the chance of getting heart disease |
| Reduces the symptoms of arthritis |
| It could perhaps stop cancer |
| Decreases depressive symptoms |
| Supports mental well-being |
| It may help with weight loss |
The following are just a few advantages of using curcumin supplements
Inflammation reduction: Numerous disorders are linked to chronic inflammation. Studies suggest that taking supplements containing curcumin may lower levels of inflammatory markers and treat or lessen the symptoms of inflammatory diseases, including bowel cancer, arthritis, psoriasis, depression, & atherosclerosis, all of which are characterised by inflammation.
Enhancement of antioxidant status: Strong antioxidants like curcumin and other curcuminoids may help your antioxidant level. Antioxidants shield cells from the cellular damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Enhanced blood vessel performance: According to studies, taking curcumin supplements may encourage blood valve dilatation, increasing blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Decreased risk of a heart attack: Additionally, they might reduce the risk of heart attacks by reducing inflammation, enhancing endothelial function, or lowering cholesterol.
Anti-cancer qualities: Curcumin may aid in promoting cancer cell death and slowing cancer cell proliferation. The effectiveness of curcumin as a treatment for many cancers, such as breast, prostate, pancreatic, colorectal, & lung cancers, is now being studied.
Aid in maintaining brain health: Supplemental curcumin may lessen the symptoms of neurological illnesses like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, & Alzheimer’s disease.
Negative aspects of turmeric
About 2% of turmeric is oxalate. This may cause kidney stones when taken in excessive dosages in predisposed people.
Additionally, not all turmeric powder sold commercially is pure. Some are tampered with. This indicates that components that are less expensive and can be harmful have been added but are not specified on the label.Studies show commercial turmeric powders might have fillers such as cassava starch, barley, wheat, or rye flour.
Celiac disease or gluten intolerance patients may experience adverse side effects from consuming turmeric-containing barley, wheat, or rye flour.Once the powder is mixed with flour, certain turmeric powders may contain dubious food colourings to enhance colour.
In India, a typical food colouring is metanil yellow, often called acid yellow 36. Large doses of metanil yellow may disrupt the neurological system and cause cancer, according to a study on animals.
Although metanil yellow’s toxicity has not been studied in humans, using it is prohibited in both the USA and Europe. Lead is a form of metal that is particularly hazardous to the neurological system, and specific turmeric powder may also contain significant lead levels.
Conclusion
Turmeric provides various medical benefits in Ayurvedic traditions, including boosting bodily energy, reducing gas, getting rid of worms, enhancing digestion, controlling menstruation, removing gallstones, and alleviating arthritis.
Turmeric may restore your skin’s natural brightness. Try a face mask at home to see whether turmeric positively affects your complexion.
Information By – Aayushi Bhanu
