Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is an age-old spice that has been used for centuries in India and China, to treat inflammation and cuts. It has been used extensively in both Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Turmeric was also considered to be useful in treating acne and scars. Homemade masks, scrubs and poultices that are made from turmeric are used even today in India.
Turmeric or curcumin is loaded with health benefits including:
Benefit #1 – Anti-inflammatory Properties
Perhaps the most known benefit of turmeric has to do with its anti-inflammatory properties. A study on rheumatoid arthritis patients revealed that 500mg of daily curcumin was more effective than the prescription drug Diclofenac when given to patients.
Benefit #2 – Digestive Aid
Turmeric has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years to improve digestion and heal the gut. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory nature and high levels of antioxidants contributes to a healthy digestion. A recent study found that turmeric might reduce bloating and gas symptoms. Research also shows that turmeric may help people with irritable bowel disease as well as inflammatory bowel disease. There is even some evidence that eating several doses per day of turmeric might help people that have stomach ulcers although further research is needed to verify this.
Benefit #3 – Good for your Complexion
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties are said to provide a glow to the skin. Try a mask made with turmeric for a natural glow (recipe below):
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 teaspoons gram flour (also known as besan or chickpea flour)
4 teaspoons yogurt
¼ teaspoon lemon (optional)
Mix well and apply to face for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. This mask adds a lovely natural glow to the face and also helps to lighten acne scars. Adding the lemon will naturally bleach your face as well.
Benefit #4 – Pain Relief
One study found that turmeric naturally activates the opioid system in rats. The endogenous opioid system is an innate pain-relieving system. Another study found that turmeric supports pain relief in people that have arthritis in their knees. The study claimed that turmeric worked as well as ibuprofen in this scenario.
Benefit #5 – Reduces Symptoms of Depression
Research shows that curcumin supplements can help to reduce depression symptoms in patients that are already using an antidepressant. One study found that curcumin was equally effective as PROZAC in treating depression at the six-week mark.
Benefit #6 – Boosts Immunity & Fights Allergic Rhinitis
Turmeric is said to increase the immunity-boosting proteins in our bodies. It is also said to help ward off sneezing, itching, congestion and sinus.
Benefit #7 – Detoxes the Body
The liver benefits from turmeric and its active compound curcumin as the two help the liver to detox the body and also rid the body of carcinogens. The natural detoxification system in our body is aided by the consumption of turmeric.
Benefit #8 – Supports Healthy Weight
One study by Korean researchers suggests that curcumin could effectively alter the composition of fat cells in our bodies. According to their research, this could be related to turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties. Another finding claims that turmeric can help balance stress hormones which in effect helps to keep our weight in check (as increased stress commonly causes sudden weight gain).
Benefit #9 – Sleep Aid
We all need a good night’s sleep to keep our hormones and our emotional and physical wellbeing in check. Without good quality sleep most of us cannot function well. In an animal study it was found that curcumin helped to protect sleep-deprived mice from symptoms of sleep deprivation.
One of my favorite bedtime drinks is Turmeric Milk – or golden milk, as it is more commonly known. It is simple to prepare and it is loaded with nutrients and antioxidants. The recipe for my version of Golden Milk follows:
Benefit #10 – Possibly Provides Protection Against Cancer
Several studies have been conducted on turmeric and cancer and the findings suggest that turmeric does in fact appear to fight against pancreatic cancer cells. An animal study found that turmeric effectively could kill tumors as well as stop tumor growth.
Benefit #11 – Lowers Cortisol
One study found that turmeric helps to lower cortisol levels. Increased levels of cortisol are linked to obesity and depression.
Benefit #12 – Heart Healthy
Levels of triglycerides seem to reduce with turmeric. However it is unknown which particular turmeric products are best at helping to lower levels of triglycerides. Besides this curcumin can improve the lining of blood vessels or endothelium. Blood pressure and clotting may occur when the endothelium is not working properly which could lead to heart disease.
Benefit #13 – Functions as an Antiseptic
Traditionally, turmeric was used to treat wounds in India. It is still believed that creating a paste with turmeric and water can heal minor cuts and wounds.
Benefit #14 – Helps to Regulate Blood Sugar
Turmeric is believed to help balance blood sugar and to fight insulin resistance.
Benefit #15 – Reduces Risk of Blood Clots
An animal study found that the compound curcumin from turmeric resulted in reduced platelet aggregation and thus also potentially reduced the risk of blood clots forming.
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Golden Milk
Serves 2
Ingredients
2 cups of organic milk (or Almond or Coconut Milk)
1 teaspoon of turmeric
2 teaspoons of maple syrup
1 teaspoon of grated ginger
Cinnamon for topping (optional)
Method
Bring all ingredients to a boil and pour into two cups. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired. (Other spices like cardamoms or ground peppercorns can also be added when boiling the milk for a spicier flavor.) This lovely turmeric milk does wonders for my sleep and is full of nutrients.
