Turmeric extract is from the roots of the Curcuma longa plant, a perennial shrub native to India and the tropical areas of Asia. Turmeric has been used for centuries in Indian and Chinese traditional medicine. This hot, yellow spice gets its color, characteristic flavor and pungent aroma from its active ingredient curcumin. According to Nutritional Supplement Educational website, curcumin makes turmeric a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.
Antioxidant Effects
Turmeric is a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our cells from the damages of free radicals formed by metabolism and environmental products such as smoke, pesticides and other pollutants. Antioxidants protect the body and help to prevent premature aging and chronic conditions, including cancer. Naturopaths have recommended turmeric when high levels of antioxidants are necessary.
Reduces Inflammation
Turmeric may work to treat inflammation by stimulating the adrenal glands to increase the production of the hormone that reduces inflammation, and by lowering histamine levels, according to the Nutritional Supplement Educational website. Turmeric is beneficial in treating people suffering from inflammation and joint pains such as arthritis.
Additional Benefits
Turmeric may be applied topically to the skin to ease conditions such as ringworm; eczema; pain; inflammation; or bruising and infections, according to Emedtv website. Gastrointestinal conditions including loss of appetite, indigestion and heartburn, abdominal pain or bloating, gas and diarrhea may be relieved by turmeric. Turmeric also helps to protect the liver from toxins such as alcohol. It protects the heart by improving circulation.
Warnings
Tumeric should be avoided by people with painful gallstones or severely toxic liver disorders. People with the following conditions should consult their physicians before taking turmeric or any other supplements: pregnant or nursing women or those planning to get pregnant; people with a blood-clotting disorder or with a health condition; or individuals taking any kind of medication.
Inclusion of Curcumin
A research study was done in 2005 at the University of Georgia by T. P. Robinson, RB Hubbard and others entitled "Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Aromatic Enones Related to Curcumin." The study said curcumin--a natural product isolated from the spice turmeric that gives turmeric its orange-yellow color--exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities that included anti-cancer properties.
Member Comments