Turmeric is the golden spice of India. It belongs to the ginger family (zingiberaeceae) and is a rhizome, an underground stem. The Turmeric stem turns into orange-yellow shade. India is the leading producer of turmeric and it is the most common culinary spice in Indian cuisine, with a fragrant aroma and slightly bitter taste. 
Turmeric is a good source of dietary fibre, Vitamin C, Magnesium, Vitamin B6, Iron, Potassium and Manganese.
Health Benefits Of Turmeric
Powerful Medicinal Properties
Turmeric is the most comprehensive and powerful herbal ingredient in Ayurvedic treatments and traditional remedies. The active ingredient has been found to be curcumin. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.
Reduces Arthritis Pain
Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties that help ease inflammation and swelling in people with arthritis. Studies have found that the active compound in turmeric, curcumin - is effective in reducing pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
Prevents cancer
Contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to cancer prevention. Curcumin is anti-viral, anti-fungal and can help protect against cancer. The National Cancer Institutehas recognized curcumin as an effective anti-carcinogenic, or substance that helps prevent cancer.
Boosts the immune system
According to the study published in the journal PLOS ONE (Public Library of Science) curcumin in turmeric is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that helps boost immunity. The best way to reap the benefits is to mix turmeric with black pepper to increase the body's absorption greatly.
Lowers cholesterol
Turmeric is effective in lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) & helps reduce your risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Studies have found that a low dose of curcumin reduces LDL and total cholesterol levels.
Liver Health
Turmeric and its active organic compounds improves liver function and reduces toxicity level in the body. The antioxidant effect of turmeric is an ideal solution for liver ailments.
Curcumin helps with the pain occurring in PMS and alleviates mood changes and depression with its anti-inflammatory property.
A Word of Warning:
Even though turmeric does not have an allergic substance, it has certain side effects including nausea, dizziness or diarrhoea particularly if consumed in large quantities. So, it is best to consult a health care professional before including a powerful substance to your diet or supplement regiment, and remember to take it in moderation.
Disclaimer:
The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.
FAQs
It is a herb that has been revered for centuries and has played an important role in weddings, religious ceremonies, and other cultural practices. With its bright yellow color and unique flavor, turmeric has become a symbol of Indian heritage and tradition, and its popularity continues to grow worldwide.
What happens to your body when you start taking turmeric? ›
Turmeric usually doesn't cause serious side effects. Some people can experience mild side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea. These side effects are more common at higher doses.
What drugs cannot be taken with turmeric? ›
Turmeric may interfere with the action of these drugs, increasing the production of stomach acid:
- Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Famotidine (Pepcid)
- Ranitidine (Zantac)
- Esomeprazole (Nexium)
- Omeprazole (Prilosec)
- Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
High doses of turmeric and curcumin are not recommended long-term since research confirming their safety is lacking. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has determined 1.4 mg per pound (0–3 mg per kilogram) of body weight an acceptable daily intake ( 14 ).
What does turmeric do to the female body? ›
Through its rich and varied plant chemistry, it has a powerful anti-inflammatory (antioxidant) and immune-strengthening it can be a wonderful support for hormone balance at all life stages. Here are just a few of the ways turmeric is beneficial to women: Premenstrual symptoms and cycle balance.
Which is the no. 1 turmeric in the world? ›
The best turmeric in the world is found in this Indian state, here's all you need to know about the Lakadong turmeric. Lakadong turmeric is grown in a mall village in the western foothills of the Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya.
What are the negative side effects of turmeric? ›
Taking turmeric in large doses has potential risks:
- Mild side effects include upset stomach, acid reflux, diarrhea, dizziness, and headaches.
- Consuming large doses of turmeric supplements can significantly increase urinary oxalate levels, increasing the risk of kidney stone formation.
People who should not take turmeric include those with gallbladder problems, bleeding disorders, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), infertility, iron deficiency, liver disease, hormone-sensitive conditions, and arrhythmia.
Is 1 teaspoon of turmeric a day enough? ›
Turmeric is also an excellent ally for those who want to lose weight: it stimulates the metabolism and reduces the assimilation of sugars. The recommended daily dose for turmeric powder is about 3 grams per day, which is equivalent to a teaspoon.
What vitamins should you not take with turmeric? ›
Avoid using turmeric together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting. This includes angelica (dong quai), capsicum, clove, dandelion, danshen, evening primrose, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, saw palmetto, and willow.
Turmeric contains oxalates and this can increase the risk of kidneys stones. “The consumption of supplemental doses of turmeric can significantly increase urinary oxalate levels, thereby increasing risk of kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.”
Will turmeric raise blood pressure? ›
The curcumin in turmeric may lower your blood sugar or blood pressure. If you take medications for high blood pressure, like Warfarin, or diabetes, you should consult with your doctor before adding turmeric tea to your diet.
Can turmeric burn belly fat? ›
Contains curcumin that may help the body burn fat by increasing heat, which, in turn, can help boost metabolism. Has a host of other health benefits, from helping fight Alzheimer's disease to keeping hormones in check during menses. Add turmeric to soups or stews or sprinkle it over roasted veggies or nuts.
What does Mayo Clinic say about taking turmeric? ›
When taken by mouth or applied to the skin, turmeric — and the curcumin it contains — appears to be generally safe when limited to less than 8 grams a day. That said, different amounts often are recommended depending on the health condition being addressed, and higher doses have been used for limited periods of time.
What is the best form of turmeric to take? ›
The best way to take turmeric is in supplement form. There isn't much curcumin in turmeric powder, so using it as a spice isn't as effective.
Why is turmeric so popular in India? ›
Soon this ingredient quickly gained recognition in ancient Indian medicine systems, including Ayurveda and Siddha, for its potent healing properties. It was valued as a remedy for a wide array of ailments, ranging from digestive issues to joint pain.
Why do Indians drink turmeric? ›
In India, golden milk is often used as a home remedy against colds. In fact, the yellow drink is touted for its immune-boosting properties. Test-tube studies suggest that curcumin has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties which may help prevent and fight infections ( 50 ).
Why is turmeric called Indian saffron? ›
Turmeric is traditionally called the Indian saffron; it originated in southern India about 4000 years ago. This region continues to be the world's largest producer. It has been documented to have been used in Vedic culture (1750–500 BCE).
Why do Indians cook with turmeric? ›
Apart from adding taste and colour to a dish, it also has health properties. The use of turmeric dates back nearly 4000 years to the Vedic culture. Most Indian recipes will always have a common ingredient i.e a pinch of turmeric. In India, turmeric is considered as a healer's spice.
Turmeric is a good source of dietary fibre, Vitamin C, Magnesium, Vitamin B6, Iron, Potassium and Manganese.