A Primer on Turmeric

A Primer on Tumeric[1]

Turmeric, a plant in the ginger family and used for curry production, is native to Southeast Asia and is grown commercially in that region, primarily in India. Its rhizome (underground stem) is used as a culinary spice and traditional medicine. Turmeric — and especially its most active compound, curcumin — have many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health and prevent against Alzheimer's and cancer. It's a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis. Most of the highlights below are not well researched, partly because the active ingredient, curcumin, is not biostable.

1. Increases Antioxidants in Your Body --- The antioxidant effect of turmeric is one of its greatest claims to fame. Oxidative damage is one of the mechanisms responsible for aging and many diseases. Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that can protect from free radicals by neutralizing them. Curcumin also stimulates antioxidant mechanisms in the body.

2. Can Help Control Diabetes --- Turmeric boosts glucose control and augments the effects of medications that treat diabetes. This powerful herb can supplement mainstream diabetes treatments by helping moderate insulin levels. It also lowers resistance to insulin, which can help to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

3. Might Prevent Cancer --- There are many types of cancer, but they share common features that curcumin and turmeric could help address. The herb may be able to influence the growth, development, and spread of breast, colon, stomach, and skin cancer cells at a molecular level. Help limit metastasis.

4. Helps Lower Cholesterol --- High cholesterol has many poor health consequences. Studies show using turmeric to season your food can significantly lower blood cholesterol levels and suppress plaque build-up in the arteries.

5. Can Help Prevent and Treat Alzheimer's Disease --- One of the most common neurodegenerative diseases in the world and the leading cause of dementia, Alzheimer's is dreaded by many but still has no known cure. Turmeric reduces inflammation and oxidative damage, which researchers believe play a role in the development of the disease.

6. Can Treat Skin Conditions --- Turmeric offers many benefits for the outsides of our bodies, too, including speeding up wound healing and calming the pores to help reduce acne.

7. Can Benefit Depression --- Many studies offer promising results regarding turmeric and the treatment of depression.

8. Can Treat Gastrointestinal Conditions --- Curcumin can help control inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, and even Crohn's disease so well that some people have been able to wean themselves off other medication. As an added benefit, curcumin doesn't cause the side effects many people complain of with gastrointestinal medicines.

9. Can Help Relieve Arthritis --- People suffering from both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis can benefit from using turmeric.

10. Can Help Control Weight --- The components in turmeric help calm the low-grade inflammation associated with obesity and promote fat loss. People who would like to lose a couple of pounds may benefit from drinking turmeric tea in addition to following a healthy diet and exercise routine.

[1] Compiled from various sources.

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