At the heart of ancient wellness practices lies turmeric. Often referred to as the “golden spice,” turmeric is the spice that gives curry its vibrant hue. However, it also boasts many therapeutic properties.
As we get into natural health, let’s talk about turmeric, its benefits, and the recommended dosage for this prominent ingredient.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric, known scientifically as Curcuma longa, is primarily grown in the fertile soils of India. Indians, who have utilized this spice for centuries, continuously incorporate turmeric into their dishes. Although turmeric contains beneficial compounds, one stands above the rest: curcumin.
Curcumin, a polyphenol part of a group known as curcuminoids, is the active ingredient in turmeric. This compound is responsible for the antioxidant benefits of turmeric, which can help combat oxidative stress.REF#3346 It works to ward off free radicals that can cause adverse effects in our bodies.
How Much Turmeric Should You Take Each Day?
Turmeric has been an essential part of kitchens and wellness routines for centuries. As we unpack its benefits, we must discuss how much of it you need.
The answer will vary depending on age, body weight, metabolism rate, overall health, and underlying health conditions.
However, it's generally best to follow the dosage instructions on the specific product's packaging and consult with a dietitian or healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. This advice is particularly important for those with underlying health conditions or for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Are There Any Side Effects of Turmeric?
While turmeric has many benefits, it’s important to explore it with an informed approach — turmeric requires certain precautions. This is especially true if you regularly take high doses of turmeric supplements.
Side effects may include:
- Digestive Upset or Nausea: For some, initial encounters with turmeric might lead to slight digestive discomfort or nausea.
- Allergic Reactions: Everybody is different — while many people safely consume turmeric, a few might experience allergic reactions. It's important to listen to your body and consult a professional if you are concerned.
- Interactions With Medications: Turmeric has the potential to interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, and other drugs that regulate blood pressure, cholesterols, and blood sugar levels.
Most people generally receive turmeric well, but if you have a sensitive stomach, multiple allergies, or routinely take some of the medication listed above, it’s essential to consult a health expert before incorporating significant amounts into your routine.
How Can You Take Turmeric?
Turmeric is a versatile spice that can be consumed in many different ways. You can reap the benefits of turmeric while enjoying it in whichever form you enjoy best.
Here are a few of our suggestions:
Raw Turmeric Root
The raw turmeric root provides a burst of freshness. Whether blending it into smoothies or grating it down to add some zest to your dishes, the root carries an essence that can be delicious.
Turmeric Powder in Foods
Turmeric can also be easily infused into your favorite dishes. You may opt for making a golden-flavored curry, but adding a pinch in your soups, rice, veggie blends, or even baked goods can enhance their flavors.
Turmeric Powder in Drinks
One of the most popular ways to use turmeric powder is to add it to your favorite beverage. Turmeric tea is wildly popular, but you could also add some to a glass of milk or create a latte blend featuring your other favorite spices.
Dietary Supplements
For those looking for a more concentrated form of turmeric's benefits, dietary supplements can be your best option. Whether you take capsules, tablets, gummies, or potent turmeric extracts, curcumin supplements are convenient and effective options.
Tinctures and Liquid Extracts
For the naturalist, tinctures and liquid extracts provide a focused dose of turmeric. These can easily be included in drinks and foods or taken on their own to experience the potent effects of turmeric.
How Has Turmeric Been Traditionally Used in Medicine?
Turmeric is deeply embedded in Ayurvedic traditions.REF#3347 Indian households have passed down the remedies revolving around turmeric for ages. Its therapeutic properties have long been celebrated, proving that turmeric is an ingredient that stands the test of time.
Health solutions can come in many forms, from natural to synthetic options. In recent years, more people have embraced natural remedies like turmeric to support their overall wellness.
Numerous clinical trials and studies have spotlighted its potential benefits, skyrocketing its popularity in the health and wellness space.REF#3348
What are the Health Benefits of Turmeric?
Here are just a few examples of the positive effects of turmeric:
- Digestive Health: A healthy gut is important to your overall health, and turmeric plays its part.REF#3349 Turmeric works to soothe your digestive tract, keeping your gut health functioning correctly.
- Joint Health: Joint pain can cause several problems in our daily lives. Modern studies now echo ancient practices, affirming turmeric's role in encouraging joint health.
- Pain Relief: Ayurveda culture has long believed turmeric to be a natural way to ease discomfort, especially highlighting the benefits of curcumin.
- Brain Health: The brain thrives on nourishment and care. Emerging research shows turmeric's potential role in bolstering brain health, helping us maintain clarity, focus, and cognition.REF#3350
How Does the Body Absorb Turmeric and Curcumin?
While turmeric boasts a variety of benefits, its bioavailability is often questioned. Curcumin, although powerful, is quickly metabolized in the bloodstream.REF#3351 Unfortunately, that means that the effects of curcumin will only exist in the short term.
However, pairing turmeric with the sharpness of black pepper, particularly its component piperine, can help amplify curcumin absorption.REF#3352
A Final Word
The benefits of turmeric have been prevalent for centuries, and Gaia's undying dedication ensures that the authenticity of turmeric remains intact. Enter your wellness journey with Gaia's curated turmeric offerings.
To learn more about turmeric and other spices that provide a healthy addition to your day, you can read our blog.
REFERENCES:
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- 2. Patwardhan, B., Warude, D., Pushpangadan, P., & Bhatt, N. (2005)., "Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine: a comparative overview", Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2(4), 465–473. . 2
- 3. Prasad S, Aggarwal BB., "Turmeric, the Golden Spice: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine.", In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. Chapter 13. . 3
- 4. Scazzocchio, B., Minghetti, L., & D'Archivio, M. (2020), "Interaction between Gut Microbiota and Curcumin: A New Key of Understanding for the Health Effects of Curcumin", Nutrients, 12(9), 2499. . 4
- 5. Sarker, M. R., & Franks, S. F. (2018), "Efficacy of curcumin for age-associated cognitive decline: a narrative review of preclinical and clinical studies", GeroScience, 40(2), 73–95. . 5
- 6. Prasad, S., Tyagi, A. K., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2014)., "Recent developments in delivery, bioavailability, absorption and metabolism of curcumin: the golden pigment from golden spice. ", Cancer research and treatment, 46(1), 2–18. . 6
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