Prior to the era of synthetic medication, the primary combatant against disease was food. In ancient times, foods were frequently prescribed as part of a treatment regimen, and were used to treat a wide range of ailments. As society became modernised however, so did medicine. Medical professionals began to move away from organic treatment protocols and began to rely heavily on fabricated medication.
This dependence on synthetic medication unfortunately continues today, however as of late there seems to be a renewed interest in the medicinal capacities of food. One food which seems to be getting an increasing amount of attention is turmeric, which is a herb that is frequently used in cooking and is popular in Asian cultures. It is the main spice in the famous Indian curries. It has been used there for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric and it is known for its many healing properties.
Turmeric is satiated with healthy nutrients and vitamins, and as such can offer a number of potent health benefits. It is also one of the most researched herbs on Earth. In this blog we will be sharing the top 3 health benefits of turmeric:
Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory
Turmeric has been shown to be a powerful anti-inflammatory, and has the capacity to reduce inflammation throughout the body. A 2004 study demonstrated that curcumin (one of the active ingredients in turmeric) has the same anti-inflammatory capabilities as aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications. In a clinical trial involving patients with rheumatoid arthritis, it was shown that those who took turmeric experienced a considerable reduction in joint stiffness and a decrease in swelling around the affected joints. These results have encouraged more research to evaluate the beneficial effects curcumin rich plants like turmeric can have on people suffering from arthritis.
An added benefit of turmeric is that it does not have any of the side effects that are typically associated with traditional anti-inflammatory medications, nor does it require a prescription to purchase. Turmeric can be obtained easily through reputable organic companies such as Superfood World.
Turmeric has antioxidant properties
Oxidative damage is often considered to be one of the predominant mechanisms that lead to the development of serious diseases and aging. Oxidative damage is connected to the presence of free radicals, which are incomplete molecules that are coursing through our system. These free radicals have the capacity to impede our internal processes, and can catalyse reactions that are detrimental to our health.
Antioxidants are our primary line of defense against these free radicals, which is why they are so critical to our overall health and appearance.
Wrinkles, sagging skin, age spots and hyper pigmentation occur generally due to loss of collagen and fat tissue and most dermatologists recommend you to start eating a diet rich in antioxidants.
A 2007 study showed that curcumin is a potent antioxidant, and has the ability to subdue free radicals. Curcumin has also been shown as a powerful anti-aging ally. Read our blog “Benefits of turmeric for skin and health” to learn more about it.
Turmeric has been shown to improve brain function
Contrary to popular belief, your brain actually has the capacity to formulate new connections and create new brain cells. This reconstructive process is regulated in the brain by the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). Studies show that individuals who are deficient in BDNF are at an increased risk for depression, Alzheimer's and other debilitating brain disorders. A 2006 study demonstrated that curcumin can actually increase BDNF levels, which could help delay the onset of brain disorders, decrease depressive symptoms and improve overall brain function.
Turmeric may be one of the most versatile and useful herbs on the planet. From its anti-inflammatory capacities to its antioxidant properties to its ability to bolster brain function, turmeric has a wide variety of applications that can boost overall health. It also has the added benefit of being devoid of side effects, and does not require a prescription to purchase. If you are someone who is interested in maintaining your health for the long term, it would behoove you to incorporate turmeric into your current health regiment. You can have a look at our blog for some tasty turmeric recipes.
For more information, download our free guide which articulates even more of the potential benefits of turmeric: “Top 10 Health Benefits of Turmeric”. You can buy Superfood World Organic Turmeric powder here
