Herbs and spices have been used by our ancestors for centuries, both in the kitchen and for their medicinal powers. It’s safe to say that turmeric is the most researched nutritional supplement in the history of natural medicine.
What is turmeric, and what makes it so remarkable, that it has become a cornerstone in the field of holistic health with curcumin?
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a common spice originating from the Curcuma longa plant, a species of ginger native to Southeast Asia. The curcuminoids within it have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity with a wide variety of uses and benefits and very few side effects.
Turmeric root powder contains roughly 3.14% curcumin, which is known to be a significant driver of its health benefits. However, the best turmeric supplement will have a combination of turmeric and black pepper (piperine) along with AstraGin to enhance absorption and maximize efficacy.
So, what are the health benefits of turmeric and curcumin supplements?
1) Helps Arthritis & Joint Pain
One of the most popular applications for turmeric extract is in the treatment of aches and pains caused by arthritis and other joint conditions. Some of the signs of severe arthritis are a decreased range of motion, stiffness in the joints, significant swelling, and an inability to move around freely. If treatment is not sought, these symptoms may become more severe over time and lead to irreversible harm.
According to research, curcumin is able to block a significant number of the inflammatory mediators that are associated with the development of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis. It has been shown that curcumin, which is found in turmeric, is effective in reducing arthritic symptoms and may be a great supplemental therapy for joint discomfort.
2) Reduces Chronic Inflammation
Inflammation is the immune system’s reaction to irritants or dangers. Inflamed regions frequently expand, grow red, and become painful. While this is a natural and healthy biological reaction, the immune system might malfunction. When inflammation becomes persistent, it can cause serious health complications.
Many studies have shown that curcumin has anti-inflammatory capabilities by inhibiting major inflammatory indicators in the body. Turmeric’s antioxidant action also help in the reduction of oxidative stress, which has been associated to low-grade inflammation.
Back Pain
Chronic back pain is frequently caused by underlying conditions such as sciatica, herniated discs, or spinal abnormalities. While turmeric is not a cure-all for these illnesses, it has showed promise in controlling upper and lower back pain by lowering inflammation and free radical damage.
3) Aids Weight Loss
High blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke are just some of the many health problems that can develop as a result of being overweight. Losing weight can be simple if you’re otherwise healthy. The situation might get more challenging, though, if you already suffer from a metabolic disease.
Several clinical investigations have demonstrated that curcumin is effective for metabolic diseases, particularly in terms of maintaining a healthy metabolic rate and body composition. By inhibiting various mechanisms that contribute to the expansion of adipose tissue, turmeric improves insulin sensitivity, controls lipid metabolism, and specifically targets fat.
4) Improves Skin Health
The skin is the body’s most vital protective barrier. The skin protects us from pathogens and maintains a healthy core temperature. Unwanted skin diseases including persistent acne, eczema, and psoriasis can emerge at any moment and require medical attention.
Turmeric powder is commonly used in homemade face masks, pastes, and other topical remedies for skin care. Recent studies have shown that curcumin can alleviate oxidative stress caused by skin inflammation. Collagen production is boosted by turmeric, and tissue regeneration is sped up noticeably.
5) Helps Headaches & Migraines
Migraines and other severe headaches are extremely challenging to manage. Stress, weariness, insufficient sleep, inflammation, poor posture, and strain in the neck are only some of the many potential sources of such severe pain and suffering.
Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities have been demonstrated to be particularly useful in alleviating pain associated with headaches and migraines. Although the precise mechanisms are unknown, turmeric appears to be able to alleviate inflammation-related pain while also directly inhibiting oxidative stress in the body.
