You already know that many foods can keep one’s body in good shape, but spices also contain amazing benefits for your health. Turmeric spice is truly making a name for itself in the mainstream medicine.
Based on several studies, the main substance in turmeric, curcumin, is both antioxidant-rich and an amazing daily supplement for stimulating a healthy inflammation response in the body. This spice has received much attention not only from culinary enthusiasts but also from the medical and scientific worlds. Spices are one of the most important ingredients in cooking, as they can enhance the taste of any food. In some countries, spices play a big part in their cuisine and are deeply-rooted in their culture.
Turmeric, which is largely associated with Indian culture for thousands of years, has been used in ancient medicine as well. Indians used it as an antiseptic for wounds and burns, a cure for gastrointestinal discomfort and respiratory conditions, and much more. But what really makes turmeric a valued spice?
With the advancements in technology, our modern medicine has revealed that turmeric contains a special compound called curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory agent that is the source of its various benefits. Several studies by The Arthritis Foundation mentioned that curcumin can profoundly help reduce joint inflammation. It is a recommended treatment for rheumatoid, arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Turmeric contains flavonoid curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Apart from that, the spice contributes in detoxifying the liver, fighting allergies, stabilizing cholesterol levels, heightening immunity, and stimulating digestion. Curcumin is a natural polyphenol which has a highly powerful antioxidant effect to one’s body.
Researchers have found in a study conducted, which involves 5 people affected with inflammatory bowel disease, that the curcumin is able to help improve the symptoms of the partakers. It is suggested that adding a turmeric supplement to your diet can also upkeep a healthier gut.
In several ways, this spice helps the stomach lining. It constrains the enzymes that compromise stomach health and enhances the secretion of stomach mucous which is the main defense against damage from gastric acid. It is also used to reduce digestive and menstrual cramping as turmeric is an antispasmodic that helps sooth the muscles. Therefore, it can reduce the cramps' severity, if not, alleviating it completely.
Turmeric which is also known as Indian saffron, has the main active ingredient called Curcumin or diferuloyl methane. This component based on laboratory studies have shown to have an anti-cancer effects on cancer cells. With this being said, it is also observed that curcumin impedes the transformation of cells to tumor. It helps destroy mutated cancer cells, hence, preventing it from spreading throughout the body. This also stimulates anti-angiogenesis, which is actually the deterrence of additional blood necessary for growth of cancer cell.
Curcumin may help in the reversal of many steps in the heart disease process. Studies show that the primary gain from curcumin when it comes to heart disease is improving the function of the endothelium - lining of your blood vessels. One of the major triggers of a heart disease is known as endothelial dysfunction. This involves the inability of the endothelium to regulate the blood pressure, clotting and numerous other factors.
As it is known that Curcumin can really help avoid heart disease, skin problems, digestive problems, even cancer and Alzheimer’s, it would obviously have benefits for longevity as well, given that oxidation and inflammation are believed to play a role in aging. For this reason alone, curcumin has become very popular as an anti-aging supplement in the market.
In most scientific researches, it is proven that turmeric has a lot of positive impacts to health. Many believe that it also has several beneficial uses for the skin. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components contribute to positive effects to the skin and gives it it's natural glow.
The curcumin found in turmeric can help wounds heal by decreasing inflammation and oxidation. It also lowers the response of your body to cutaneous wounds. This results in your wounds healing more quickly. Studies have found that turmeric can positively affect tissue and collagen as well.
On Psoriasis - The National Psoriasis Foundation states that you can use it as a supplement or by adding it to food. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities of turmeric may help your psoriasis by controlling flares and other symptoms.
One study theorized that the curcumin spice can improve one’s immune system. The medicinal properties or turmeric may be able to boost the immune system even in people with immune disorders.
In view of these effects, it is true that this golden spice is worth giving a try and a must-add in your daily diet.