Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin

What’s So Great About Turmeric?

 

In short…. a lot:

 

 

 

The spice we refer to as Turmeric is actually the dried and ground rhizome of a plant in the same family as ginger. It is used and prized for its color and earthy flavor in culinary traditions around the world. Modern medicine recognizes its health benefits and it has been used extensively in natural and folk medicine for centuries.

The secret of this ancient spice is curcumin, a compound well-studied for its health benefits. Turmeric contains up to 3% curcumin by weight.

Curcumin is believed to halt an enzyme that may be responsible for turning environmental toxins into carcinogens in the body. (This is one reason turmeric has long been a folk remedy for helping protect the body from the affects of smoking or chewing tobacco.)

Curcumin may also improve digestion of fats and sugars and help alleviate inflammation in the digestive system. It is even used in the mouth to help alleviate gum problems!

The benefits attributed to this bright yellow spice are often the result of the curcuminoids it contains. The most common curcuminoid is curcumin, which is now available as a supplement and in many remedies. While turmeric has many benefits, it is only about 3% curcumin by weight, and often more concentrated curcumin supplements are used.

Health Benefits of Turmeric

Largely due to its curcumin content, Turmeric is often credited with these benefits:

1. Fighting inflammation
2. As an antioxidant
3. Protects the heart in various ways
4. Helpful for arthritis
5. Brain boosting
6. May be helpful for fighting diabetes and cancer

Curry Powder

This vibrant and earthy spice already has a reputation as a staple in many cuisines and I love cooking with it! One of my favorite ways to incorporate small amounts of this power spice is by making a homemade curry powder. This uses a host of powerful spices and provides awesome flavor to many dishes.

 Sunrise Smoothie

Not all smoothies have to taste like a pina colada. One of my favorite smoothies has a hint of sweet nestled among earthy spices.

To Make: Blend 1 cup of pecan/almond/coconut milk with 1/2 cup frozen pineapple, the juice of one lemon and one orange, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, a tiny pinch of black pepper, and about a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger root. Add a natural sweetener like stevia if desired.

Acne Gel

Just like in the face mask above, the anti-inflammatory properties of this unique spice makes it beneficial to help cool and stop acne. I make a paste of honey and turmeric (2 parts honey to 1 part turmeric) and dab on to spot treat.

More uses at: wellnessmama.com