Turmeric is often added to beverages such as smoothies, juices, and waters as a tea, it is a staple in many cultures. Its bright yellow color has earned it the nickname “Indian saffron,” as the spice is often used in place of the significantly more expensive saffron. It is widely used in rice dishes, Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine, soups, stews, and nearly all curry dishes. The research is currently ongoing and expanding.Ĭulinarily, turmeric is a rich, flavorful spice that is often the main ingredient in curry powder blends. While the data on turmeric’s efficacy to date is largely anecdotal, there is enough interest in its healing properties to generate scientific research as to its impact on cognitive function, cardiovascular health, blood glucose levels (already in normal range), managing oxidative stress, and a number of additional benefits. Modern science has begun to explore the benefits of this ancient healing compound which is packed with antioxidants, and there is a great deal of current support for its use as an immune system booster. For centuries it has been used to support respiratory tract, skin health, joint health, and digestive health. Historically, turmeric has been used in both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for its healing properties. It is part of the ginger family and has underground roots with a pungent, odorous orange flesh that is either used fresh or turned into a golden powder that is the spice known as turmeric. Nearly 75% of the world’s turmeric is grown in India. Katherine Zeratsky, R.D.N.Turmeric is a popular spice that is native to Southeast Asia. You also should talk to your health care team about turmeric if you take an anticlotting medication or at any point require additional chemotherapy, as the supplement may interact with your medication. I would recommend that you discuss with your medical team using it as a compliment to mainstream medical treatment. Turmeric, or curcumin, may be a complimentary therapy that is valuable for you. High doses or long-term use may cause gastrointestinal upset for some people - even damage to the liver. That said, different amounts often are recommended depending on the health condition being addressed, and higher doses have been used for limited periods of time. When taken by mouth or applied to the skin, turmeric - and the curcumin it contains - appears to be generally safe when limited to less than 8 grams a day. Noncurcumin compounds, such as turmerin, turmerone, elemene, furanodiene, curdione, bisacurone, cyclocurcumin, calebin A and germacrone, also have been shown in animals to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, like many plants, it is not just one component that may have beneficial effect. However, more research is necessary to confirm these effects.Īlthough there are supplements available, the data is not conclusive and supplements are not regulated. There are various studies looking at the benefits of turmeric, including several that showed turmeric to be just as effective as ibuprofen for reducing inflammation, swelling and pain. Other areas of investigation include curcumin’s effect on Crohn’s disease, certain cancers, depression, diabetes, joint pain and irritable bowel syndrome. In addition, it may lessen some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint swelling and morning stiffness. Other research suggests that curcumin may reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for a number of health conditions, including pain, asthma and decreased movement in people with osteoarthritis. Turmeric's main active component - curcumin - is what gives the spice its yellow color. Or they may be made into a paste to apply to the skin. The underground portions of the plant can be dried and made into capsules, tablets, extracts, powders or teas. It's a major ingredient in curry powders - common in many Indian and Asian dishes - and is often used as a coloring for foods, fabrics and cosmetics. Turmeric, which is a plant related to ginger, is grown in many Asian countries, as well as other tropical areas. Can you tell me more about this supplement? Is it something I can add into my diet to feel better?ĪNSWER: Turmeric is becoming a common spice in many home pantries, especially since people are hearing of its many purported health effects, including reducing inflammation. I'm committed to making this new year a healthier one, and I want to improve my overall health and diet. A friend told me that her arthritis pain improved after she started taking turmeric. DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I am a breast cancer survivor who still suffers from various aches and pains, including arthritis.
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