Turmeric (Curcumin):Uncovering the Health Benefits of Golden Spice:
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a spice from the ginger family, native to Southeast Asia. It has been used for many years as a medicinal herb, a dye, and a flavoring agent in food. The active ingredient of turmeric is curcumin, which gives it its characteristic yellow color and is responsible for most of the health benefits of turmeric.
Scientific Name: Curcuma longa
Obtained From: The roots of the Curcuma longa plant are boiled, dried, and then ground into a yellow powder, which is known as turmeric.
Reviewed by
Dr. Akanksha Srivastava
B.A.M.S. and Nutritionist
Nutritional Value of Turmeric:
Turmeric is a nutrient-dense spice that contains a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Nutritional analysis showed that 100 g of turmeric contains:
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Calories: 390 kcal
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Cholesterol: 0 grams
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Phosphorous: 0.26 grams
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Calcium: 0.2 grams
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Total Fat: 10 grams
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Sodium: 10 milligrams
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Thiamine: 0.9 milligrams
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Riboflavin: 0.9 milligrams
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Niacin: 4.8 milligrams
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Potassium: 2500 milligrams
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Iron: 47.5 milligrams
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Carbohydrate: 69.9 milligrams
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Saturated Fat: 3grams
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Ascorbic Acid: 50 milligrams
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Fiber: 21 grams
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Sugar: 3 grams
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Protein: 8 grams
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Turmeric is also a good source of the ω-3 fatty acid and α-linolenic acid (2.5%)
Turmeric Gives Relief From Inflammation
One of the most well-known curcumin benefits is its ability to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to many chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Studies have shown that curcumin can help in arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory conditions.
Turmeric Improves Immunity
Another curcumin benefit is its ability to improve immunity. Curcumin can boost immunity because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to increase immunity and has benefits in relieving cough, cold, and chest congestion.
Turmeric Takes Care Of Heart Health
Turmeric is good for you for its beneficial effects on heart health. It can help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel function, inflammation, and cholesterol levels. Research is going on the effect of turmeric in lowering LDL levels, however, it seems to reduce serum cholesterol levels therefore it seems effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Turmeric Prevents Diabetes
Curcumin has been shown to benefit blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In addition, studies have shown that turmeric benefit can work better for insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Curcumin can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a risk factor for diabetes.
Turmeric Good For Cancer Prevention
Curcumin has unique anti-cancer properties that prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells. Studies have shown that Turmeric benefit prevents the growth of cancerous cells in the breast, colon, prostate, and lungs. Curcumin can also give relief from inflammation in the body, which is a risk factor for cancer.
Turmeric Works Wonder For Skin Health
Turmeric has been included for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various skin conditions. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that turmeric powder benefits can help reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the
age spots.
Turmeric Solves Digestion Issues
Turmeric has been used in traditional medicine to treat various digestive disorders, including indigestion and bloating. In addition, Turmeric benefit can help improve digestion by increasing the production of bile, which is essential for the breakdown and absorption of fat. Curcumin can also help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract preventing inflammatory bowel disease.
Precautions:
Here are some precautions to keep in mind when consuming or using turmeric:
● Turmeric is safe when consumed in moderate amounts as a spice in food. However, taking large doses may cause digestive issues, such as stomach upset or diarrhea.
● Turmeric supplements may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medications.
● Turmeric may cause allergic reactions in some people, especially if they are allergic to other members of the ginger family, such as ginger or cardamom.
● Turmeric extracts may have estrogenic effects, interacting with certain hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer or uterine fibroids.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has a wide range of health benefits due to its active ingredient, curcumin. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties and can improve immunity, heart health, and digestive health. However, it is super important to consult a healthcare expert before taking supplements, especially if you have certain medical conditions or allergies.
Disclaimer: This is general information only, not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any suggestions. this information does not create any patient-physician relationship and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Chaabhi .com expressly disclaims responsibility and shall have no liability for any damage loss, injury or liability whatsoever suffered on a result of your reliance on the information contained on this site. Always consult a doctor or dietician for more information as individual people can have different allergies and medical conditions which can cause issues if turmeric is taken in excess amounts.