• In Newsletters
• Posted May 04, 2016

3 Reasons to Get More Turmeric

And Include Curcumin Curries in Your Everyday Eating

By

the Aisle7 Medical Advisory

This staple of curries adds more than distinctive color and flavor to dishes: studies show flavonoids in curcumin affect health

Related Topics

1. Indian Recipes
2. Osteoarthritis Health Center
3. Antioxidants & Free Radicals

The ancients were on to something. Turmeric—a staple of East Indian curries for centuries—adds more than distinctive color and flavor to dishes: studies continue to show that curcumin, its active ingredient, affects health in several beneficial ways. As researchers continue to investigate its effects, including supplementing with higher amounts than can be eaten in the diet, proactively adding this spice to your regular diet may support your health.

Curcumin from turmeric has been associated with protecting these body systems:

1. Joints

Curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that protects the body against free radical damage. It shows promise in supporting inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind trial found curcumin to be an effective anti-inflammatory agent in RA patients. A clinical trial found that turmeric in combination with boswellia, ashwagandha, and zinc effectively treated pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthrits.

2. Brain & Circulation

Turmeric’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute positive effects to cardiovascular health. Preliminary research has associated curcumin with improved measures of artery and blood vessel health, and suggested that it may support mood.

3. Digestion

Turmeric-derived curcumin is a carminative. Carminatives (also called an aromatic digestive tonics or aromatic bitters) may be used to relieve indigestion symptoms, particularly when there is excessive gas. In one double-blind trial, turmeric powder was found to relieve indigestion.

When supplementing turmeric, 400 mg three times per day is a common amount.

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