The bright yellow color is not the only reason why it is good to put turmeric in most dishes. The spice has many useful properties. It is used in Indian, Persian and Thai cuisine to prepare sweet and savory dishes, but is also widely used among people who practice Ayurveda.
The spice contains a chemical called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, it is not well absorbed by the body, so it is recommended to eat in combination with black pepper.
Here are 8 health benefits of turmeric that will make us use it more often:
Fights inflammation
Inflammation is a natural and essential function of our body to prevent infection with pathogens. But chronic inflammation can be dangerous for tissues. Curcumin, as a bioactive agent, directs inflammatory pathways by blocking the molecule that is responsible for degenerative and heart disease.
Prevents cancer
Many studies show that turmeric is an effective tool in the fight against cancer. It can prevent the spread of breast cancer to the lungs, limit the growth of skin and prostate cancer, and even reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. Curcumin reduces the growth of new blood vessels in tumors and thus helps reduce cancer cells. A study involving 44 men with lesions in the colon that could turn into cancer showed that 4 grams of curcumin a day could reduce the number of lesions by 40% in just 1 month.
Detoxifies the liver
According to a study by the Medical University of Graz in Austria, turmeric can slow liver damage. This is due to the antioxidants contained in it, which helps to detoxify the body.
Reduces pain
The spice is a natural painkiller. It helps to eliminate the pain caused by sprains, burns and bruises. This is because curcumin activates the opioid system in the body, which acts as a painkiller.
Helps with arthritis
Inflammation of the joints and arthritis can be relieved thanks to the anti-inflammatory compounds contained in turmeric. A new study shows the effect of curcumin drugs on 45 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The greatest improvement was in the group that took turmeric, without any side effects.
It slows down aging
Turmeric is a spice that slows down aging and helps prevent Alzheimer's. This is due to curcumin, which reduces the accumulation of protein nodules or plaque in the brain.
Chases depression
Several studies conducted in China have shown that curcumin is a very effective antidepressant. One looked at the behavior of 60 patients and found that curcumin boosted the production of dopamine and serotonin, and also had a good effect on the hippocampus, which played an important role in memory and brain control during depression.
Reduces the risk of heart disease
Curcumin in the spice supports the function of the lining of blood vessels. Its dysfunction can lead to serious heart problems, blood clotting and an imbalance in blood pressure. A study of 121 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery showed that the group given turmeric had a 65% lower chance of developing a heart attack.