Turmeric, often referred to as Indian saffron or even the golden spice large plant that is cultivated across Asia in both Central America. Turmeric reduces inflammation and enhances the liver's function, bringing pain relief and many more.
The turmeric you see on the spice cabinets' shelves is composed of the plant's roots. The vibrant yellow color of turmeric processed has inspired numerous cultures to use it to dye their clothes. Ground turmeric also serves as a key component in curry powder.
Powders, capsules, teas and extracts are just a few commercially available products from turmeric.
Curcumin is the main ingredient in turmeric, a powerful nutrient with biological properties. Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system of treatment, suggests turmeric for a range of health issues, including chronic pain and inflammation. Western medicine is beginning to research turmeric as a pain-relieving agent and a healing ingredient.
This article focuses on the nutritional benefits of turmeric and the ways it can benefit health and also some of its adverse consequences.
Nutritional value of turmeric
As per the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database 1 teaspoon (tbsp) of powdered turmeric has:
- 29 calories
- 0.91 grams (g) of protein
- 0.31 g of fat
- 6.31 grams of carbohydrates
- 2.1 grams of fiber
- 0.3 grams of sugar
The same serving of 1 tablespoon provides:
- 26 percent of the manganese content in our daily requires
- 16 percent of the daily iron
- 5 percent of the daily dose of potassium
- 3 percent of your daily vitamin C
Positive side effects
Although it is a delicious spice that is healthy to eat It has also traditionally been utilized to treat Ayurvedic and Chinese treatment for inflammation, skin disorders and wounds, digestive disorders and liver diseases.
Anti-inflammatory properties
The Arthritis Foundation cites several studies that show turmeric can reduce inflammation.
This ability to reduce inflammation could help ease the pain that sufferers of arthritis experience in their joints.
The foundation recommends taking 400-600 milligrams (mg) of turmeric capsules three times daily to relieve inflammation.
Pain relief
Turmeric is believed to be an anti-inflammatory. It is also believed to ease arthritis pain, too.
Research suggests that turmeric is effective to ease pain in one study, noting that it appeared to work along with Ibuprofen (Advil) for people suffering from knee arthritis.
Although dosing guidelines appear to differ, participants in the study consumed 800 mg turmeric capsules daily.
Enhancing the function of the liver
Turmeric has received a lot of more attention lately due to its antioxidant properties.
Turmeric's antioxidant properties are so potent that they could prevent your liver from being damaged by toxic substances. This could be a great benefit for those who are taking strong medications for diabetes or other ailments that can cause liver damage with long-term usage.
Perhaps reducing the chance of developing cancer
Curcumin is a promising treatment for cancer. Research suggests that it can provide beneficial effects against prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer and multiple myeloma.
Digestion
Turmeric enhances the taste of food items, which is why it's inclusion in the curry powder. However, it can play a significant role in the digestion of food.
The spice is a great aid to healthful digestion because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Turmeric is utilized in Ayurvedic treatment as a digestive healing agent. Western medicine is now beginning to research how turmeric could help reduce gut inflammation and permeability, two aspects of digestion effectiveness.
The spice is also being studied as a cure for IBS, also known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Included in the diet is turmeric
Turmeric is a versatile spice which can be added to dishes in many ways such as:
- Incorporating turmeric into spice mixes like curry or rub for barbecue
- Making a homemade dressing with some oil, a little vinegar and some seasonings, including turmeric
- Make your favorite marinades more interesting using turmeric.
Alternately, you can try these delicious and healthy recipes created by dietitians who are registered:
- Mason jar lentil salad
- Cumin-lime turmeric vinaigrette
- Mango and turmeric smoothie
- Turmeric milk
- Gold rush soup
Turmeric can also be found as a supplement to powders, capsules, liquids, extracts and tinctures. Bromelain, an extract of protein that is derived from pineapples, enhances the absorption of and effects of turmeric and is commonly used in conjunction with turmeric in these items.
Turmeric powder and supplements are available online for purchase.
You should consult with an experienced physician before using any supplements to ensure they are safe to take.
The adverse effects of turmeric
While it is true that turmeric has potential positive health effects, it poses some dangers to be considered prior to eating large amounts.
Stomach upsets
The same compounds in turmeric that support digestion health can cause irritation if taken in large quantities. Certain participants in research studies investigating the use of turmeric in cancer treatment had to cut out turmeric because their digestion was adversely affected.
The stomach is stimulated by turmeric in producing more acid for the stomach. While this can aid certain patients' digestive health, it could adversely affect other people.
The properties of blood thinners
The properties of turmeric that purify could also facilitate bleeding and more quickly. The reason behind this isn't clear. Other suggested benefits include lowered cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, which could be related to the way that turmeric works in your blood.
Patients who are taking blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin) is advised to be careful not to consume large amounts of turmeric.
Inducing contractions
You've probably heard that eating food seasoned with curry may increase labor. While there isn't much research to support the claim, research suggests that turmeric may ease symptoms of PMS.
Pregnant women should not take turmeric supplements due to its effects on blood thinners. The addition of tiny amounts of turmeric in foods as a spice will not cause any health issues.
Takeaway
Incorporating turmeric in your daily diet is believed to have numerous health benefits. The golden spice boosts immune health, relieves discomfort, and aids in digestion and other matters. However, due to certain of its negative effects, it may not be a good choice for certain people.
It is essential to exercise cautiously when deciding if turmeric is something you want to test. Like all alternative therapies consult your physician prior to using the spice to cure any medical problem you may have.
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