Turmeric, the Golden spice of life
Turmeric ancient roots stem from its medicinal properties. It is one of the most versatile spices, with its use in a variety of different cultural dishes.
The natural compound curcumin is unique to turmeric because we do not find it in any other spice. It is also what gives turmeric its unique, vibrant golden color.
I want to write about this spice because it has been around for centuries and it is a natural and effective nutrient which can aid in leading a healthy and nutritious lifestyle.
We can trace turmerics use back over 4000 years to Ancient Ayurvedic society and then to Chinese eastern medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. Modern research has shifted focus to curcumin, the active compound known for its health benefits.
It’s funny how age old remedies can stand the test of time.
Turmeric is versatile in its use. Many studies have proven the benefits of turmeric for many of the body's systems.
Improves immune health
Improves joint health
Improves brain health
Improves heart health
Improves digestive health
Improves mental health
Improves endocrine health
Improves skin health
Improves liver health
As research uncovers the health benefits, further studies explore its impact on specific diseases.
The fundamental properties of curcumin the active compound in Turmeric are:
Anti-inflammatory
The molecule itself can manipulate inflammatory mediators, lower the negative effect on cells and signal the body to turn on pathways, which reduce inflammation.
Anti-oxidant
Free radicals and oxidative stress can damage DNA, mitochondria and cellular machinery, which can cause the cells in the body to die prematurely. The body can protect against this damage thought the use of anti-oxidants.
Curcumin is one of these anti-oxidants. The cells of the body use this molecule as protection.
Anti-Microbial
They have proven curcumin is effective for it antimicrobial effects on bacteria, fungus and viruses.
Anti-inflammatory
Research shows curcumin can reduce symptoms associated with the diseases below.
Inflammatory bowel disease like Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Psoriasis, acne, and other inflammatory skin conditions
Anti-Diabetic
Diabetes is associated with high blood sugars. There are some studies which show curcumin can improve insulin sensitivity and lower high blood sugar levels.
Anti-depressant
Curcumin’s multimodal effects show its ability to positively regulate neurotransmitters, which may improve depression.
Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help mitigate the inflammation associated with chronic depression.
Protective mechanism
Turmeric also provides potent properties, helping the body protect itself, proving its health benefits
Neuroprotective
Brain derived neurotrophic factor is a protein which play a significant role in brain health and improves the brain neuroplasticity and adaptation. Curcumin increases levels of this protein. In turn, this reduces the risk of developing neurocognitive disease and improves brain power.
Curcumin prevents the buildup of amyloid plaques which are associated with a neurodegenerative disease like Alzheimer’s
They show in many studies that curcumin even prevents cells from dying. If your brain cells live longer, then your brain cells take more time to die. If they don’t die as fast, then it will prolong your brain's ability to function.
Cardioprotective
When we look at the research, the cells which line the vessel providing blood flow to your heart are important in preventing heart attacks. For the heart to be healthy, it needs to receive a lot of blood flow, which carries nutrients and oxygen for healthy heart function. Curcumin enhances the endothelial cells of the blood vessels, improving blood flow and blood vessel dilation.
May also help reduce high blood pressure, which is associated with improved cardiovascular health.
Gastroprotective
Curcumin does not get absorbed well into the body. Researchers theorize that curcumin's effects are potentiated by its direct interaction within the intestines and the microbiome.
In gut health, curcumin is quite capable. We know that leaky gut and increased gut permeability can cause detrimental damage to your body. To prevent leaky gut, we must have a strong mucous layer within our intestinal tract. Curcumin increases the production of mucous and it also influences beneficial population of healthy bacteria, which make up our microbiome.
In summary
It is hard pressed to find a medication which provides this many protective mechanisms. I find it impressive a single spice can have such a profound impact on our body's systems in such healthy and beneficial way. We should take serious consideration when thinking about incorporating this spice into your lifestyle of healthy living. I look forward to further research and will continue to use this spice in my daily life.