Turmeric: Five Health Benefits

Turmeric can be a powerful (and tasty) way to boost your immune system and keep you healthy during the cold season.  

Turmeric's health benefits are derived from its many natural phytochemicals, of which curcumin is the most studied. Not only has it been a staple of Indian cuisine for thousands of years, it's also played a major role in traditional Indian medicine for just as long.

But did you know about the rest of its health benefits?

1. MOOD ENHANCEMENT

Clinical trials have been conducted on the potential of curcumin to reduce major depression, and early research results have shown potential.  According to an analysis performed by University Hospital in Reims, France, curcumin is believed to work on the metabolic and nervous systems to reduce many of the biological markers associated with depression.

2. ARTHRITIS RELIEF

In 2019, researchers conducted a trial testing curcumin as a treatment for knee osteoarthritis.  After 28 days, they found that patients got the same amount of improvement and pain relief from curcumin as they did from diclofenac, a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID).

Not only that, but they experienced none of the side effects that come with taking an NSAID.

“It's clear that turmeric is a powerful tool for brain health.”

3. IMPROVED BRAIN HEALTH

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities of turmeric can have many positive effects on brain health. This may include reducing the symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis and dementia.

4. ALZHEIMER'S PROTECTION

Alzheimer's disease is believed to be caused by the formation of beta-amyloid proteins between the nerve cells of the brain, hindering their communication. Initial research has shown that curcumin can prevent the formation of these proteins as well as help break them up. In addition, curcumin seems to help clear out the tau proteins that collect inside the neurons.

It's clear that turmeric is a powerful tool for brain health.

5. GUARDS AGAINST SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION

This health benefit is the granddaddy of them all.

Systemic inflammation is linked to so many illnesses, ranging from heart disease to diabetes. Chronic inflammation makes your immune system operate in overdrive, and can damage your body in so many ways. The anti-inflammatory benefits of curcumin are well-researched and proven, so adding turmeric to your routine is a smart move.

IMMUNE BOOSTING TURMERIC TEA

Interested in a tasty and refreshing way to incorporate turmeric into your diet?

Try our Immune Boosting Tea with this recipe: