SAEDNEWS: Do you know what properties and benefits turmeric offers? Are you familiar with how to store and select turmeric? In the following, you will learn everything you need to know about turmeric.
According to SAEDNEWS, The benefits of turmeric are mainly due to its phytochemical properties. The compounds in turmeric, called curcuminoids (such as curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin), offer several health advantages, which we will explore in this section. Turmeric also contains abundant oils named atlantone, turmerone, and zingiberene. Other components of turmeric include proteins, resins, and sugars.
Turmeric helps fight inflammation and assists in treating irritating ailments such as cancer and arthritis. Due to its curcumin compounds, this spice also offers neurological and cardiovascular health benefits. In this section, you will find a comprehensive list of turmeric’s advantages.
Anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric
Numerous studies have identified curcumin, a powerful compound in turmeric, that can reduce bodily inflammation. One way to increase your turmeric intake is by adding it to your cooking, as turmeric is used in many dishes. You can also drink turmeric tea by boiling four cups of water with one teaspoon of turmeric. Adding lemon or honey can enhance the flavor.
Excellent antioxidant properties of turmeric
Turmeric is known for eliminating free radicals, inhibiting peroxidation, and reducing iron-related complications—all direct results of its antioxidant effects. Not only turmeric powder but also its oil possesses antioxidant properties. In another study on mice, turmeric prevented oxidative stress caused by diabetes due to its antioxidant capacity.
Turmeric for improving brain health and preventing neurological diseases
Curcumin in turmeric can also promote the regeneration of brain cells. Aromatic turmerone, another active compound in turmeric, can increase the growth of neural stem cells in the brain by up to 80%. Curcumin may help treat depression, dyskinesia (which includes involuntary and voluntary movements), and diabetic neuropathy. In other animal studies, curcumin showed beneficial effects against chronic stress.
Turmeric for preventing heart diseases
The antioxidant properties of turmeric provide special protection for the heart, particularly in diabetes. Curcumin in turmeric helps lower blood cholesterol levels, thereby supporting heart health.
Turmeric for cancer prevention
Curcumin has demonstrated anti-cancer properties in numerous studies. In fact, countries where people consume about 100 to 200 milligrams of turmeric daily have a lower risk of developing cancer. In some cancer patients who used turmeric, tumor growth was reduced. In other cases, immune system chemicals that destroy cancer cells were found to be more concentrated.
Delaying aging and staying youthful with turmeric
Turmeric contains curcuminoid pigments that activate genes increasing antioxidant production. This process protects brain and skin cells from free radical damage, improves concentration, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Turmeric for improving the immune system
The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can significantly help boost the immune system. It has been shown that curcumin can inhibit certain immune cells that, when overactive, may lead to diseases such as heart disease and obesity.
Turmeric acts as a natural disinfectant
Turmeric exhibits excellent antibacterial properties against various types of bacteria, including E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhi, showcasing its disinfectant qualities.
Turmeric for liver detoxification
According to the Maryland Medical Center, curcumin in turmeric stimulates the production of bile by the liver. As we know, the liver uses bile to eliminate toxins. The gallbladder also produces cells that break down harmful compounds. The detoxifying effects of curcumin are so effective that it can even be used to treat mercury poisoning.
Turmeric for reducing menstrual pain
According to an Iranian study, the curcumin in turmeric is effective in lessening the severity of menstrual symptoms, which can be attributed to turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties.
The antioxidants found in turmeric play a vital role in enhancing skin health. This spice helps in treating acne and even psoriasis. It can also help reduce stretch marks and uneven skin pigmentation. The benefits of turmeric for the skin include the following:
Helping to treat psoriasis with turmeric
Turmeric can inhibit inflammatory enzymes associated with psoriasis. It can also reduce cytokine levels, which trigger cell inflammation and may lead to psoriasis.
Using turmeric for psoriasis is very simple. Take half a teaspoon of turmeric and add it to water, stirring until you get a paste. Applying a thin layer of this paste can be beneficial for psoriasis. Wear loose, cotton clothing and leave it on overnight. Remove the cloth and wash your skin with warm water the next morning. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can offer significant benefits in treating psoriasis.
Helping to treat acne and dry skin
The antibacterial properties of turmeric help treat acne, and its anti-inflammatory effects reduce inflammation caused by pimples. Turmeric can be used as a facial cleanser or a face pack for oily skin.
Milk and turmeric have significant healing properties that can assist in treating acne. Mix one teaspoon of turmeric with three tablespoons of milk, two tablespoons of flour, and a few drops of honey. Stir well and apply a thin layer of this mixture on your face. Let it sit for 20 minutes until it dries. Then, you can wash off the mask with water and apply your favorite moisturizer.
Milk and turmeric can also help treat dry skin. The same face mask can be used for this purpose.
Preventing wrinkles
According to a Japanese study, turmeric can prevent the formation of wrinkles and pigmentation. It also helps prevent the loss of skin elasticity caused by chronic UVB exposure.
Improving burns and healing wounds
The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of turmeric help soothe burns. Also, when used on most burns, turmeric does not worsen the condition. You can mix turmeric with other oils to speed up the healing process. Simply apply this mixture to the wounds. The antioxidant and astringent qualities of turmeric aid in wound healing and reduce scar formation.
Treating skin pigmentation
The skin-lightening property of turmeric can help treat skin pigmentation. This herb also helps keep the skin free from infection. All you need to do is mix one teaspoon of turmeric with lemon extract. Apply the mixture to the affected area and leave it on for 20 minutes. Avoid sun exposure for at least one hour. Rinse with cold water. You can do this daily before bathing.
Nowadays, dried herbs and spices are widely available in supermarkets. However, it is better to buy them from local spice shops in your area, as these stores usually offer a superior quality and relatively fresher selection of dried herbs and spices. Always choose organic turmeric.
Turmeric varies greatly, so selecting the right type of turmeric powder is very important. Many turmeric powders are mixed with other substances to enhance their yellow color. Turmeric used in curry powder contains the highest amount of curcumin, averaging about 3.14% by weight. Turmeric is available both in large chunks and as powder and should be purchased only after verifying its quality.
Turmeric powder must be stored in a completely sealed container in a cool, dry place protected from light. It is best to keep turmeric in the refrigerator. Avoid excessive heat because it can cause the aromatic essential oils to evaporate. On the other hand, sunlight can fade its color. The container should be tightly closed immediately after use. Prolonged exposure to air will cause it to lose its flavor and aroma.
