7 Surprising Turmeric Benefits You Should Know About

Turmeric is a Hindu spice that has been used since ancient times in gastronomy and alternative medicine. It is characterized by its particular orange color, its aroma and flavor. It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, like ginger.

It is believed that it was used for the first time in India in 610 BC. C, time in which it began to be valued as a coloring for various foods. Since then, and until today, it has been a staple of the kitchen in many places around the world.

Many call it “the queen of spices” because of its large amount of nutrients and its promising effects on the body. According to data from the  Journal of the American Chemical Society , turmeric is credited with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, among others.

As we know that many are unaware of them, below we want to review in detail the 7 main benefits. Discover them!

7 surprising benefits of turmeric

1. Protects the liver

Many of the active ingredients in turmeric help improve liver health. This excretory organ of the body is responsible for eliminating toxins through the production of enzymes that support the digestion process.

Actives such as curcumin, caffeic acid, and borneol help increase enzyme action to help break down waste easily. They also have anti-inflammatory actions on this organ that help guarantee its function, according to a study published in 2019.

2. Strengthens the immune system

The antibacterial and antiviral properties of turmeric work to support the immune system in fighting thousands of pathogens that affect health.

Due to its contribution of a substance called lipopolysaccharide, including it in the diet helps to increase the action of antibodies against foreign agents that attack the body. Turmeric intake could reduce the severity of various types of pneumonia, according to an article published in the journal “Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology & Physiology.”

Thanks to these qualities, their inclusion in the diet can help reduce the risks of contracting flu, colds and other types of respiratory and viral diseases.

3. Turmeric supports digestive function

Curcumin, one of the most important active compounds in this spice, stimulates the production of bile by the gallbladder, which is key to better digestion.

Due to its anti-inflammatory action, it works as a remedy to help improve intestinal conditions, such as ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and parasites. It is recommended as a supplement to relieve chronic gastritis, dyspepsia and digestive gases.

However, patients with gallbladder disease should not ingest it, as it could worsen their condition.

4. Could prevent and help slow tumor progression

Turmeric root has more than 10 active substances that act against cancer cells that form tumors.

The most prominent are:

• Curcumin.
• Beta-carotene.
• The curdiona.
• Limonene.
• Curcumenol.

According to an article published in the magazine “Aging”, turmeric could have anticancer effects that slow down tumor reproduction, thanks to a reduction in inflammation and an antioxidant effect.

In addition, everything indicates that the provision of small doses helps patients to mitigate the negative effects of the drugs used in the treatment of this pathology. However, larger trials in humans are necessary to demonstrate these effects and to establish a protocol on the clinical use of turmeric in this type of pathology.

5. Turmeric could ease arthritis

People with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis have long turned to alternative treatment with this ingredient to reduce pain and inflammation.

Its powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic action serves as a natural reliever of the main symptoms of these chronic diseases.

On the other hand, due to its richness in antioxidants, it inhibits the negative impact of free radicals on the cells of the body, which also supports the treatment.

6. Helps prevent oxidation of cholesterol

Including this spice in meals is very healthy for the cardiovascular system. Its properties favor the reduction of the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a lipid substance that accumulates in the blood vessels, increasing the risk of obstruction.

7. Could be useful in treating diabetes

People diagnosed with type 2 diabetes could benefit from incorporating this ingredient into their eating plan.

Its richness in nutrients and antioxidants serves to optimize the function of insulin in the blood, a key factor in lowering glucose levels.

However, it is essential to consult your doctor before ingesting it, since its combination with some medications can cause hypoglycemia.

Turmeric, a promising spice.

As you can see, turmeric is an amazing spice when it comes to health. Feel free to incorporate it into your smoothies, salads, soups, and many other recipes.

However, this food does not have magical properties, it should not replace any pharmacological treatment. In addition, it must be framed within a healthy lifestyle to be able to develop its functions. Larger human studies are needed to confirm its possible application in some clinical settings.