Turmeric
Updated Dec. 18th, 2023
You are probably familiar with turmeric as the spice that gives curried dishes their characteristic colour and flavour. Turmeric contains antioxidant chemicals, called curcuminoids, for neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause damage to the body’s tissues when they bump into healthy cells.
Thus turmeric can be used to stop infections, protect the liver from toxins and may be useful for unhealthy cells. The same molecules inhibit inflammation, thus acting as pain relieving agents. Turmeric has been shown to improve joint mobility and reduce the pain and swelling associated with all forms of arthritis. This activity is equivalent to the effect of some NSAID drugs. Turmeric lowers the level of harmful, or LDL, cholesterol and increases the level of helpful, or HDL, cholesterol. It also increases circulation and blood flow. All of these properties make turmeric a good choice for individuals with compromised circulation, heart disease and high cholesterol.
Turmeric can be used as a spice, encapsulated herb, dried herb, tincture or liquid extract. Better quality supplements are standardized which is an assurance that the product contains turmeric and has some active properties. Turmeric is found as a component of pain relieving, anti-inflammatory and cholesterol lowering formulas. Turmeric may be found in topical creams or gels for pain relief. Turmeric supplements are sometimes labelled as curcumin.
Turmeric contains substances that decrease your blood clotting ability therefore those with active bleeding, or those who use blood thinners, aspirin or NSAIDs should use caution. For the same reason, stop using turmeric 2 weeks prior to surgery or dental procedures. Turmeric may alter the effectiveness of some heart and cholesterol medications. Turmeric may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and liver or gallbladder, in some individuals, because it causes the release of digestive juices.
In our household, I use turmeric quiet often. If I am not using it to make wonderful skin products, I am using it to cook and sometimes to bake even. I have to admit that my favourite brand is the Organic Traditions. It does wonders and tastes like perfection. I have recommended it to many family members and they also enjoy it. Overall, I am just happy to know that turmeric can be used for all sorts of things. If you have never tried it, don’t be afraid. Give it a try. It is totally worth it.
I had a Parasite and developed H-Pylori from it. Tumeric helped me heal my body after taking the Antibiotics. I would highly recommend for anyone who has Gastrointestinal Disorders.
Hello Jayne,
Sorry to hear that. Turmeric does have many healing properties, fights inflammation and its antioxidant capabilities support healthy cell formation. When on strong antibiotics or having had an intestinal parasite, probiotics are an important part in the healing protocol and daily maintenance for overall health. Here's our article on probiotics for you to enjoy:
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/supplements/probiotics/
Stay healthy & well
I use a lot of Turmeric powder in my cooking. Since I enjoy it this way, I do not take pills. Sometimes, I use just a sprinkle but depending on what I am making, I may use a lot more. Turmeric is not only good in curries, but is versatile in many things I make such as casseroles and oven baken fish, chicken along with sauces. Turmeric is great for health and great for pain as it is an anti inflammatory.
Hello Roger,
Turmeric is great when used in recipes. It's aromatic and delicious and as you mentioned can be used in curries, soups, casseroles or in a seasoning or marinade for protein. When mixed with black pepper, it provides higher absorbability of the turmeric and its health benefits. This great antioxidant provides support for healthy cell production and has anti-inflammatory benefits. You may also enjoy our article on curcumin, the main medicinal component of turmeric.
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/supplements/curcumin/
Stay healthy & well!
My sister with myotonic dystrophy was able to lower her C-RP inflammation marker by more than half after only 6 weeks of taking 2 turmeric gummies a day! Outstanding results. Her C-RP dropped from 9 to 4.23.
Hello, Marni,
Thank you for sharing. Many studies have been done on Curcumin to test its anti inflammatory effects and the results were promising. If you'd like to learn more about Curcumin, check out our new articles on this supplement here: https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/research/
Have a healthy day!
The term "superfood" is often thrown around with little regard in today's cultuure: heck, even processed nonsense comprised of patched together "powerhouse" ingredients gets a "superfood" sticker slapped onto it.
Tumeric is a TRUE superfood-a root which harbours potential backed up not only by Ayruvedic wisdom but also scientific study. The antiinflammatory effects of tumeric, which you mention, are remarkable and give tumeric a great role in supporting both health and healing from diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and unhealthy cells. Also, thank you for the note that turmeric contains substances that decrease blood clotting ability. I did not know this! I actually recently had a dental procedure but next time will bear in mind your note, "For the same reason, stop using turmeric 2 weeks prior to surgery or dental procedures."
Hello Rachel,
You're absolutely right about the overuse of the term "superfood" in today's culture.
Turmeric has been revered for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and its health benefits are now being supported by scientific research. The active compound in turmeric called curcumin has been extensively studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and these effects are remarkable.
These properties not only contribute to reducing inflammation but also play a role in supporting immune function and promoting overall well-being.
We’re glad you enjoyed learning new things about turmeric as well. We have a whole article series on curcumin we think you’ll enjoy, check it out, https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/research/