Columnist Nozaina: Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) is a bright yellow spice derived from the roots of the turmeric plant. It is widely recognized for its culinary uses. Turmeric is used in many dishes to provide both flavor and color. It is used in traditional Chinese and Ayurveda medicines due to its medicinal properties. Curcumin is an active compound responsible for its health benefits and vibrant color. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has gained admiration in modern wellness trends. Numerous studies explore its potential health benefits from arthritis to heart health.

Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse

Curcumin is a bioactive compound in the turmeric. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is associated with various disease pathogenesis, such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. It helps alleviate inflammation and contributes to the management and prevention of inflammatory disorders by inhibiting inflammatory molecules.

Improve Brain Health

Turmeric helps to support brain health and preserve cognitive functions. The ability of curcumin to cross the blood-brain barrier has generated concern in its neuroprotective properties. Several studies revealed that it also helps to delay age-related decreases in brain functions. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions contribute to a brain-protective effect.Emerging research reveals, that there is a potential link between mood regulation and curcumin. More studies are needed to support this finding. It may have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects that contribute to mental well-being.

Support Heart Health

Turmeric promotes cardiovascular health by enhancing endothelium functions, whichcontributes to improved overall cardiovascular functions and blood flow. The endothelium is the lining of blood vessels. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions decrease the factors that contribute to heart diseases, such as oxidative stress and inflammation.

Improve Liver Health

Traditionally, turmeric has been used to sustain liver health. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric help to support the liver’s detoxification function and protect it from damage.

Dermatological Benefits

Turmeric helps in the management of various skin conditions. It helps to brighten the skin and clear the uneven skin tone. Turmeric soap quickly healing the skin wound. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric decreases skin inflammation and forms new skin tissues. The addition of turmeric in the skincare routine decreases pigmentation and dark spots and brightens the skin tone.

Dental Health

It has been suggested by some studies that turmeric helps to treat and prevent oral disease. Turmeric’s anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties may improve oral health.

Antioxidant Defense

Turmeric possesses antioxidant properties. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants fight oxidative stress. Free radicals can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases and aging. Turmeric protects the cells from oxidative damage by scavenging the free radicals. It promotes overall well-being.

Relief Arthritis

Turmeric may help to ease the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, improving the function of joints and reducing pain. Studies reveal that people suffering from arthritis may find relief after consuming turmeric. Due to its potential to modulate inflammatory pathways, it is found to be a helpful natural remedy for joint-related issues.

Prevent Cancer

Turmeric possesses anti-cancer properties. It interferes with numerous molecular pathways, that are involved in cancer spread, growth, and development. Research is ongoing, turmeric found to be effective in cancer prevention and treatment. Due to its ability to modulate oxidative stress and inflammation, it may reduce the risk of certain cancers such as colon, intestine, skin, and oral cancer.

Diabetes Management

Turmeric decreases inflammation and keeps the blood sugar level normal. It could be an effective tool to treat or prevent type 2 diabetes. Studies reveal that it improves insulin resistance and helps to regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to improved glycemic control.

Gastrointestinal Health

Turmeric promotes digestive health due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help to ease the symptoms related to inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. The soothing effect of turmeric on the digestive tract makes it a popular choice for those people who are looking for natural digestive support.

Manage Weight

It has been found that turmeric may decrease fat tissue growth, restrain weight regains, promote weight loss, and enhance insulin sensitivity. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric reduces inflammation in the body. It suppresses the inflammatory condition in muscle, fat, andpancreaticcells. According to a study, turmeric suppresses the growth of fat tissues. Incorporation of turmeric in a healthy lifestyle may help to maintain a healthy weight.

Anti-Aging

Turmeric also has anti-aging effects due to its antioxidant properties. It may help to promote overall vitality and longevity and preserve cellular integrity by fighting free radical damage and oxidative stress.

Support Immune System

Turmeric has become a candidate for supporting the immune system due to its immune-modulating properties. It can control immune system responses, which decrease the risk of infections and promote overall immune health.

Respiratory Health

The anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric have been extended to respiratory health. Turmeric helps to ease the symptoms of respiratory conditions such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and asthma. It also offers relief to people with these respiratory issues.

Anti-Microbial

Turmeric also possesses antimicrobial properties. It is traditionally used in infection prevention and wound healing. Turmeric inhibits the growth of fungi and bacteria. It acts as a natural anti-microbial agent.

Anti-Allergic

Turmeric has a potential anti-allergic effect because it modulates the immune response which is involved in allergic reactions. It could be a valuable therapeutic compound in the management and treatment of allergic diseases.

Balance Hormone

Antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and liver detoxification are three key features that make turmeric effective for enhancing fertility and hormone balance. It may contribute to hormonal equilibrium and reproductive health by influencing the activity of receptors and hormones.

Turmeric is a remarkable natural remedy with numerous health benefits. It is known as a superfood due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and potential role in addressing chronic illness. Turmeric and a well-balanced diet offer numerous health benefits. It is important to identify that the response of every individual varies. Consultation with a health care professional is advisable with any lifestyle and dietary changes,especially for those taking medications.