If you've been searching for a healthy way to spice up your meals, then you may want to find out more about the health benefits of turmeric.
Although turmeric is aggressively promoted as a ‘superfood’ that does wonders, do any of the health benefits exist? Let’s find out!
Turmeric's roots date back thousands of years; it was first used as medicine in India over 2,000 years ago.
In fact, turmeric has become so popular in modern times that numerous companies produce products containing extracts made from the plant.
A member of the ginger family, turmeric grows as an annual herbaceous plant native to tropical regions around the world, particularly in Asia.
It is thought that turmeric enhances digestion and prevents diseases along with reducing inflammation in joints and muscles.
Studies suggest that it may ease symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory acne, and psoriasis.
It may even offer protection against kidney stones, lung infections, colon cancer, diabetes, obesity, heart failure, and high blood pressure.
Turmeric was initially found effective in preventing colon and stomach cancers.
Studies suggest curcumin, the compound responsible for turmeric's medicinal qualities, helps block carcinogens from attaching to DNA, thus protecting cells.
Turmeric contains polyphenols and antioxidants that help prevent atherosclerosis or clogging of arteries.
If you suffer from chronic pain, fatigue, or allergies, you may want to limit your turmeric intake altogether.
Some chefs recommend sprinkling diced pieces of onion, leek, celery, carrots, and chicken tikka masala.
Another option involves making homemade almond milk. Just add ¼ cup of raw turmeric to the final product.
With many health benefits, turmeric remains an ideal herb to add to your dishes.