17 Turmeric Benefits For Amazing Health

Today you will discover one of the most powerful medicinal herbs of all time. There have been over 6000 scientific studies involving turmeric and it’s compound curcumin.

Some of these studies have reported that curcumin’s benefits are even greater than that of some prescription drugs.

Turmeric, whose scientific name is “Curcuma longa” is a super herb that has been widely used in the Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine fields for thousands of years now.

Turmeric is also known as “haldi” in India. The popular herb, which is also used as a culinary spice is native to India and other tropical parts of southern Asia.

Turmeric Most Powerful Natural Herb

Turmeric is probably the most powerful natural herbal remedy in the world today. The natural herbal remedy has been widely shown to prevent and even cure most of the common diseases affecting man today.

This has been greatly attributed to its various potent chemical compounds. According to the “Journal of American Chemical Society,” the turmeric herb contains various anti-mutagenic, anti-fungal, antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties.

Apart from this, the herb is also fully loaded with other beneficial nutrients and compounds, including curcumin (the herb’s main active ingredient), dietary fiber, protein, vitamins C, E & K, zinc, potassium, and calcium just to name a few.

17 Scientifically Proven Turmeric Benefits

The turmeric herb is quite effective at preventing and even treating various diseases that there are currently over 9,000 clinical and medical scientific studies that have been conducted on this “Queen of Spices.” Most of these scientific studies indicate that Turmeric is even more potent in treating multiple chronic, debilitating diseases as compared to popular prescription drugs. Below are some common scientifically proven benefits of Turmeric benefits:

1. Turmeric Benefits Weight Loss

You don’t just put on weight from eating fatty foods alone.. It’s also possible to put on weight by the cells in your body. This happens by your fat cells increasing. The fat cells in the body increase by a mechanism of division.

Turmeric has the ability to inhibit the formation of these fat cells. Hence, turmeric can help block the formation of fatty tissue(¹).

One scientific study went further and suggested that turmeric can induce “apoptosis” that is cell death in fat cells. This would reduce the bodies ability to store unhealth fat(²)

2. Turmeric Benefits For Skin

Using these face masks explained below can help you get healthy and younger looking skin:

Treatment of Acne

Turmeric is very effective treatment for acne. This is due to it’s antibacterial and antiseptic properties. A face mask made of turmeric mixed with sandalwood powder and a couple of drops of lemon juice. Is perfect for fighting pimples and giving you glowing skin.

Turmeric for Oily Skin

Turmeric is great for oily skin because it helps regulate sebum. This substance is produced by the sebaceous glands and contributes to oily skin. You can make a turmeric face mask by mixing sandalwood powder (1 tablespoon), orange juice(3 tablespoon) and a pinch of turmeric.

Turmeric for Dry Skin

For dry skin turmeric can be applied to all areas of the body not just the face. Simply combine lemon juice, rose water, olive oil(2 drops) and a pinch of turmeric.

Treating Wrinkles

Turmeric is effective in fighting the signs of ageing by reducing wrinkles and fine lines. Combine turmeric powder, raw milk, tomato juice and rice powder. Apply for 30 minutes then rinse.

3. Managing Diabetes

Various scientific findings reveal that the turmeric herb can be taken to reverse insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels both which are major diabetes symptoms. According to a 2009 study that was published in the “Biochemistry and Biophysical Research Communications” journal, the natural herbal remedy is up to 400 times more effective than Metformin (a popular drug used by diabetics) at activating the AMPK enzyme.

AMPK (activated protein kinase) is an essential body enzyme that is required to regulate metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity among other important functions. By improving insulin sensitivity, turmeric is then able to manage and even reverse type 2 diabetes.

Curcumin (the main active ingredient in turmeric) has also been scientifically proven to reverse retinopathy and diabetic neuropathy both which are closely related to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and insulin resistance.

4. Combating Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural process that is responsible for repairing the body while helping it to fight and keep off the potentially harmful pathogens that are known to cause diseases and infections. Short-term (acute) inflammation is quite beneficial to the body. However, long-term (chronic) inflammation can be very harmful to the body and is likely to result in various diseases, including Alzheimer’s, cancer, heart disease and metabolic syndrome just to name a few.

You can, however, take turmeric to prevent and treat most inflammatory diseases. This is because turmeric contains curcumin, which is strongly anti-inflammatory in nature. The curcumin compound which is believed to be as effective as some popular anti-inflammatory prescription drugs (especially ibuprofen and aspirin) has been shown to easily combat inflammation at the molecular (basic) level.

Always take the natural herbal remedy to prevent and even alleviate common inflammatory disorders while also allowing your body to repair itself.

5. Preventing Oxidative Damage

Oxidative damage is a harmful process taking place in the body that is normally associated with aging and is known to cause very many common diseases. Turmeric works to prevent oxidative damage simply by increasing the body’s antioxidant capacity. Curcumin, which is found in turmeric in relatively high quantities, is a popular antioxidant compound that has the ability to neutralise the harmful free radicals that are found in the body.

Apart from this, the active compound is also able to reinforce the body’s antioxidant mechanism. Through this, turmeric is then able to facilitate healthy and normal cell regeneration and growth, which is required for improving the user’s overall health.

6. Improving Multiple Digestive Functions

Turmeric can be taken to naturally curb indigestion and heartburn symptoms due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. The herbal remedy is also consumed to improve digestion, while also reducing bloating and other gas symptoms. This is thanks to its unique ability to stimulate the gallbladder, thus; forcing it to produce even more bile which is needed to improve multiple digestive functions.

Scientific findings indicate that turmeric is quite effective at alleviating most forms of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), especially ulcerative colitis. The herb also contains dietary fiber, hence; making it an ideal natural option for improving other crucial digestive functions.

7. Boosting the brain

The natural herb is also a potent nootropic that can be taken to boost brain functions. Turmeric’s nootropic properties are mainly associated with its unique ability to boost Brain-Derived Neurotropic Factor (BDNF) levels. BDNF is an essential brain hormone that is required to fight various degenerative disorders and also facilitate the growth of new neurons in the body organ.

Turmeric is thus; able to delay and even reverse common neuro-degenerative diseases in the process. The curcumin compound found in turmeric has also been scientifically proven to significantly improve memory and increase concentration while also improving other general brain functions.

8. Preventing and Treating Cancer

Cancer is a deadly disease that is characterised by the uncontrolled growth of body cells. You can, however, consume the herbal spice to prevent or even treat the disorder. This is because many scientific studies indicate that the herb can facilitate the death of cancerous cells, stop metastasis (the spread of cancer) and reduce the uncontrolled growth of blood vessels in cancerous tumors (angiogenesis).

A reliable scientific study revealed that curcumin can induce medulloblastoma (a pediatric brain tumor) and glioblastomas (another aggressive brain tumor) cell death. Another study revealed that combining the herbal remedy with cruciferous vegetables can prevent, slow and even stop prostate cancer growth.

According to the “University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA),” turmeric’s curcumin compound can enhance the effects of cisplatin. Cisplatin is a popular drug used in chemotherapy to treat most types of cancer(³).
Another study that was published in the “Nutrition and Cancer” journal, revealed that curcumin apart from making cancerous cells more susceptible to chemotherapy also protects healthy cells from the harmful effects of chemotherapy.

9. Lowering the Risk of Heart Disease

Heart disease is considered to be the leading cause of death not only in the USA but also in the entire world. This disorder is often caused by poor blood circulation, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation. Turmeric has been widely proven to help reverse the causes of heart disease. This natural yet potent herbal remedy has been widely shown to improve endothelium (lining of the blood vessels) functions.

This is quite effective at lowering the risks of developing heart disease as endothelial dysfunction, which is characterised by poor blood clotting and blood pressure regulation is also a major driver of the disorder. Several studies indicate that turmeric is as effective as exercising and Atorvastatin (a common prescription drug) in improving endothelial functions.

The herbal remedy has also been shown to easily reduce serum cholesterol levels. This, in turn, prevents many cardiovascular problems from occurring and keeps the heart as healthy as it should be.

10. Alleviating Depression

Depression is a mental condition that is often associated with reduced serotonin levels and low brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Just as discussed in the earlier section of this informative article, turmeric has the ability to boost BDNF levels, hence; can be used to alleviate depression. By boosting BDNF levels, turmeric then stimulates the brain to produce even more serotonin (the happy hormone) and dopamine.

According to the “Phytotherapy Research” journal, the natural herb is as effective as Prozac when it comes to boosting the serotonin and dopamine brain neurotransmitters. Hence, can be used as a safe and effective natural treatment option for mild depression.

11. Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention and Treatment

Alzheimer’s disease, which often leads to dementia is undoubtedly a very common neurodegenerative disorder. Turmeric can be used to prevent and even treat Alzheimer’s thanks to its unique oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. The curcumin compound found in the herb has been shown to easily cross the blood-brain barrier, thus; making turmeric even more effective than other drugs.

According to reliable scientific studies, turmeric has the ability to clear the Amyloid plaques that are known to cause Alzheimer’s disease(⁴) . Turmeric can slow down or even prevent the progression of this neurodegenerative disorder thanks to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. This is because chronic inflammation has been widely shown to cause Alzheimer’s disease.

Aromatic turmerone, which is another potent compound found in turmeric can also repair the brain’s stem cells. This is very crucial when trying to prevent and even reverse this annoying disorder.

12. Treating Arthritis

Arthritis is a common inflammatory disorder that is characterised by joint stiffness, swelling, and pain. Most scientific studies indicate that turmeric can be used to treat common arthritis symptoms. The studies also reveal that the natural remedy may be as effective as diclofenac sodium, which is a popular drug used to treat the disorder.

A recent study that was published in the “Phytotherapy Research” journal also claims that you can easily alleviate knee osteoarthritis simply by supplementing with turmeric. According to this study, turmeric is even more potent than ibuprofen in alleviating the inflammatory disorder.

The regular consumption of the potent herbal remedy is likely to prevent you from developing the painful condition. According to reputable scientists, eating an alkaline diet can reduce inflammation and turmeric may be the best way to bolster such a diet. Turmeric is not necessarily a quick-fix solution, hence; needs to be used for some time before realizing the results.

13. Alleviating Pain

According to various scientific studies, curcumin is a potent cox-2 inhibitor and a natural painkiller that can be used to alleviate migraines and headaches among other types of pain. Turmeric has been widely shown to be as effective as ibuprofen in terms of alleviating pain.

The use of this potent herbal remedy is often recommended as it does not contain the side effects that are associated with using popular prescription painkillers. Topical turmeric application is ideal for anyone trying to alleviate injury and muscle strain-related pain.

14. Detoxification

Harmful toxins and metals are likely to accumulate in our bodies over time due to our unhealthy lifestyles and other uncontrollable factors. The presence of these harmful elements is likely to result in various diseases if not dealt with appropriately and in a timely manner. You can, however, consume this natural detoxifying agent if you wish to safely get rid of such harmful wastes from your body.

The liver is an essential body organ that is commonly used in detoxification. A specific scientific study revealed that turmeric has the ability to offer protection against alcohol-induced liver damage. Turmeric has been widely shown to improve liver functions, thus; effectively reducing body toxicity levels. The herbal remedy facilitates efficient toxin removal through stimulating the lymphatic system.

15. Boosting the Immune System

Turmeric also contains a certain essential molecule that goes by the name “lipopolysaccharide.” This beneficial molecule is often used to stimulate the immune system. Apart from that, the natural herbal remedy also has potent antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties that work together effectively to protect the body against diseases and other common infections.

The curcumin compound that is found in turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that can be used to fight the harmful free radicals that are present in the human body. Inflammation, particularly chronic inflammation is a major cause of various diseases, hence; should be dealt with by taking the herbal remedy.

16. Healing of Wounds

The herbal remedy can be used as an effective disinfectant due to its potent antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Topical application of the herbal remedy on an area with a burn or cut is likely to speed up the healing process. Turmeric speeds up wound healing through facilitating the modulation of oxidation, swelling, and redness of the affected part.

Turmeric also has the ability to repair damaged skin. This makes it a great treatment option for psoriasis and any other inflammatory skin disorder.

17. Delaying the Aging Process

Ageing is often caused by inflammation and oxidation. It is literally impossible to completely alter the ageing process. It is, however, possible to minimise the negative effects that ageing has on your overall health, skin, and body. Curcumin fights inflammation, which causes the oxidative stress that results in wrinkles and age spots. By doing so, the potent compound ends up making you look and feel young.

How to Take Turmeric

To get the most health benefits from Turmeric it’s not another to simply get some and start taking it. This is because turmeric or a curcumin supplements are not easily absorb by the body. Turmeric is fat-soluble, what this means is that it needs to be taken with some fat to be fully absorb. Hence to experience the full range of health benefits it’s best to add it to certain foods. One of these foods is milk below we show you the benefits of turmeric with milk.

Without dissolving it in fat it will be harder for the active ingredients to get to the parts of the body that need it most.

Turmeric is very popular in curries and this is an ideal way to take it. As most curries have some form of oil in them this will help absorption. But you wouldn’t want to eat curry everyday. So below you will find some other ways of getting the full health benefits from turmeric.

Golden Milk Tea.

If you are wanting to use Turmeric as a herbal remedy then the best and easiest way is to make a tea. This tea is a ancient Ayurvedic drink. There are many different recipes for Turmeric golden milk tea. But most involve making a turmeric paste usually with milk and coconut oil.

This paste can be kept in the fridge and used for a couple of weeks. It would be useful to also add black pepper to the paste. Studies have shown that adding this to turmeric can increase it’s absorption by 1000 times. The reason for this is a compound in black pepper called “piperine”

CONCLUSION

Turmeric is generally considered to be safe for human consumption. However, you are likely to experience increased menstrual flow, hypotension, increased liver functions, diarrhea, nausea, and the increased risk of bleeding when you take the herbal remedy in very high doses.

Curcumin (the main compound in turmeric) is often poorly absorbed into the bloodstream. You can, however, solve this by supplementing with black pepper. Black pepper contains piperine, which has been proven to greatly enhance curcumin absorption.