Besides its functions as a spice, turmeric has several antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to guard against chronic illnesses. The medicinal properties of turmeric have been well known since the Vedic period as there are numerous references to the health benefits of curcumin in Vedic literature. After having recognised the impact of regular consumption of turmeric, various brands in the modern period have begun to introduce turmeric-based products in the market, such as turmeric powder, capsules, soap, hand cream, and even chocolate bars. Recent studies prove that turmeric consumption does positively impact Alzheimer’s patients. This is because curcumin, an important compound present in turmeric, catalyses the disintegration of rogue proteins that cause cognitive damage. Owing to their medicinal properties, the demand for health supplements like turmeric powder has surged in Australasia. But, what are the significant health benefits of turmeric? Read further to find out.
FIGHTS VIRAL INFECTIONS
Ever since the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic, one has regularly been coming across various types of viruses across the world. While the cure for many of them is yet to be found, people can positively do it as a precautionary measure to boost their immune system and maintain a healthy diet. Adding turmeric tea to one’s diet will keep viral infections at bay to an extent. Adding a teaspoon of turmeric powder to one’s daily glass of milk is also recommended by many doctors.
FIGHTS DEPRESSION
Depression is another significant challenge teenagers and adults face during pandemic lockdowns. The fast-paced world has made people extremely busy, and anxiety is a growing issue that needs to be addressed in contemporary times. Studies prove that the healing power of turmeric can reduce anxiety and stress-related issues. Turmeric is as effective as antidepressants when it comes to stress reduction. This is because of curcumin’s ability to increase BDNF ( Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor) amount in the human brain. BDNF is an essential protein that regulates the health of neuronal cells in the brain.
TREATS ARTHRITIS EFFECTIVELY
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric make them an effective natural remedy in treating arthritis and similar joint-related issues. Some of the common symptoms of arthritis are joint stiffness, uneasiness while moving, swelling etc. These symptoms would worsen over time and cause irreparable damage.
Comparative studies on NSAIDs and turmeric have proven e worthwhile as they have shown promising results. Studies reveal that curcumin constrains the inflammation-causing mediators linked to different types of arthritis. The therapeutic competence of turmeric in animals has been familiar to humans since ancient times. That being said, full-fledged clinical trials over long periods are required to determine the effectiveness of turmeric on arthritis patients conclusively.
AIDS WEIGHT LOSS
It is needless to say that obesity can cause many health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiac arrest etc. For a healthy human being, weight loss can be achieved without complications. However, for individuals with problematic metabolism, their diet requires a regular supply of turmeric to maintain stability and manage weight. Curcumin enhances insulin sensitivity, balances lipid metabolism and controls fat. In addition, turmeric consumption reduces swelling in the digestive tract and restores the health of the digestive system. It also catalyses the production of bile.
Apart from the aforementioned hidden benefits of turmeric consumption, it is needless to elaborate further on turmeric’s antimicrobial and skin-enhancing properties. From healing wounds to preventing breakouts and acne, turmeric is a genuine all-rounder that genuinely lives up to the maxim ‘one for all!’.