What parts of the body benefit most from turmeric?
As you have probably realised by now, turmeric is something of a super-spice, given its well-known health benefits. But what exactly are the benefits of turmeric for different parts of the body? It’s important to remember that turmeric works in a systematic way, lending a helping hand to the entire system as well as specific areas. Let's examine a few specific parts of the body that turmeric benefits the most.
Turmeric benefits for the liver
Turmeric has been traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to protect the liver. It contains a fat-soluble ingredient called curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant (and, as a side note, responsible for the vivid colour associated with the spice!). Because of these properties, turmeric helps to reduce free radicals formed in the body.
However, it’s worth mentioning that curcumin isn’t easily absorbed into your bloodstream
on its own. To improve its bioavailability — the amount of curcumin your body is able to utilise — it helps to consume it with black pepper, which contains a compound called piperine. At TurmeriX, our turmeric powder formulation contains black pepper, so you can be confident that you’re getting the most from our supplements.
Turmeric powder benefits for the stomach
Thought to be wonderfully soothing for stomach discomfort, turmeric has traditionally been used in Western herbal medicine to support healthy digestion, relieve symptoms of indigestion, and as a carminative — relieving the intestinal gas that can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable. People with these symptoms may have been diagnosed with mild Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel conditions.
Potential benefits of turmeric
Turmeric is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve inflammation and is known to reduce free radicals formed in the body. It’s known that inflammation and oxidative damage both play a role in Alzheimer’s disease — the most common form of dementia, for which there is no cure. Scientists are currently seeking to determine whether turmeric could have any beneficial applications for this disease.
Turmeric benefits for joints
Turmeric is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as an anti-inflammatory, which may help to explain why studies show that both topical and oral use of turmeric has been used to reduce joint inflammation - a symptom that is often associated with discomfort and stiffness.
As you can see, the benefits of turmeric for different parts of the body have been used for generations in Western and Ayurvedic herbal medicine, are many — and more are being discovered every day! One thing is for certain — this beautiful sunshine spice should be an essential addition to any home’s medicine cabinet.
Ref: Fuloria, Shivkanya et al. “A Comprehensive Review on the Therapeutic Potential of Curcuma longa Linn. in Relation to its Major Active Constituent Curcumin.” Frontiers in pharmacology, vol. 13 820806. 25 Mar. 2022
