Turmeric

September 19, 2024

Curcuma longa

Energetics : Warming + Slightly Drying

Herbal Properties : Anti-Inflammatory, Antimutagenic, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Cholagogue, Choleretic, Hepaprotective

Turmeric is a plant from the ginger family. Its root has a bright orange inside that is commonly used as a dye. This vibrant color comes from curcumin, one of the most studied components of turmeric. Curcumin shows evidence of having antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties (Source 2). Some studies even shown curcumin to have anti-cancer potential (Sources 1, 6, 9).

Turmeric is known as being a blood cleanser, a digestive aid, and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Quite a few studies have been done to show the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of Turmeric for patients with joint pain and osteoarthritis. Sources 3, 5, 7, 8). One study actually showed that Turmeric may actually be more effective than Ibuprofen (Source 7).

Turmeric is a choleretic, meaning it also aids to stimulate bile production in the liver, which aids in digestion. (Sources 4, 6)

Supposedly, when Curcumin is combined with black pepper, its bioavailability is increased by 2000%, making it much more effective. Due to this reason, you will commonly find black pepper paired with turmeric in recipes.

Precautions:

Turmeric may have blood-thinning abilities, so exercise caution if you are already taking blood-thinning medications. It typically is not recommended to take turmeric within 2 weeks of any surgeries or concerning procedures. Always consult a trusted healthcare provider with any concerns or questions.

Sources :

(1) Curcumin and Anti-Cancer Potential

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12680238/

(2) Curcumin’s Antibacterial, Antiviral, Antifungal Properties

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24877064/

(3) Curcumin as an Anti-Inflammatory for Kidney Disease

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23828329/

(4) Curcumin for IBS

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21649456/

(5) Turmeric’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties + Joint Pain

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24473984/

(6) Turmeric for Digestive Disorders