Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is traditionally found in a spice cabinet, but did you know it actually has incredible healing properties? Not only does it boost the flavor of curry, but it also boosts your health! However, it’s important that you ensure the turmeric you consume—whether in supplement or spice form—comes from a high-quality source. For example, if the turmeric you have is sourced from China, it’s most likely going to have a higher volume of heavy metals in it than a turmeric sourced from regions of India that employ organic farming practices. This really comes down to the health of the soil, so just make sure to do your research and ask those hard questions before you purchase a turmeric supplement. Now, let’s dig into what turmeric is, what curcumin is, and how adding turmeric to your health regimen can be beneficial. 

Turmeric comes from the root of Curcuma longa, is related to our pal ginger—they come from the same plant family—and is native to Southeast Asia, primarily India. In traditional Indian medicine, turmeric was used to treat skin disorders, upper respiratory issues, joints, and the digestive system. Aside from its medicinal properties, Turmeric is also used in many dishes! It’s most popular in curry, but can be used to add flavor to mustard, butter, and more. 

While more research is needed, early indicators suggest that turmeric can be used to treat inflammation, especially in chronic conditions. These anti-inflammatory properties can be attributed to the active component in turmeric called curcumin. It’s possible that when dosed properly, curcumin can be a more effective anti-inflammatory than common medications such as Ibuprofen.

Curcumin/turmeric can also be beneficial in supporting endothelial health—aka the membrane around the heart. In one study, researchers compared the effects of an 8-week aerobic exercise group to an 8-week curcumin supplement round, and both groups saw improvement in endothelial function, while the control group—those who did neither the exercise or took the supplement—saw no change. Another study found that, in people with type-2 diabetes (a common comorbidity with heart disease), curcumin was equally effective as Lipitor in improving endothelial function. However, since studies are still ongoing it’s important to consult with your medical provider before taking turmeric/curcumin if you struggle with type-2 diabetes or heart disease.

In an analysis of nine studies, researchers found that turmeric/curcumin can have a positive effect on anxiety and depression. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric, research suggests that as inflammation decreases throughout the body and overall health increases, our mood gets boosted, too. Another study evaluated the use effects of curcumin on overall brain health, and found significant improvements in participants’ working memory. Additionally, participants of the study reported better moods and less fatigue.

While turmeric/curcumin can help with memory and mood, heart health, and more, these benefits ultimately come as a result of decreasing inflammation in the body. As inflammation goes down, our body is better equipped to fight anxiety, depression, heart conditions, chronic pain, and more. Adding turmeric to your health regimen can be beneficial to help you fight the inflammation throughout your body, and thus giving your body the support it needs to fight the different health concerns you may experience. Ultimately, turmeric is most effective for issues like joint paint when combined with supplements like glucosamine.