Turmeric Benefits for Skin
Turmeric is a spice with a deep, golden-orange color known for its ability to add flavor, color, and nutrition to various foods. It is a relative of ginger and is derived from the root of an Asian plant. Turmeric has been used in cooking for centuries and is also a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic and other traditional forms of medicine in China and India. Mary-Eve Brown, an oncology clinical dietitian/nutritionist at Johns Hopkins Medicine, shares information about the health benefits of turmeric, and how to use it in cooking, and provides two recipes that feature the spice.
“What are the benefits of turmeric?”
Brown explains that turmeric contains a natural compound called curcumin, which is a type of polyphenol. Curcumin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for the body. Turmeric is rich in phytonutrients that can protect the body by neutralizing free radicals and preventing damage to the cells. Consuming plant-based foods can prevent medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Brown suggests that individuals who are trying to manage inflammation should add turmeric to their diets. This is particularly helpful for people who suffer from inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, joint disorders, colitis, allergies, and infections.
Science Behind Turmeric
- Turmeric, along with its components like curcumin, has been the subject of numerous scientific studies.
- According to Brown, some research findings suggest that people who suffer from osteoarthritis may experience less joint pain by incorporating turmeric in their diet.
- Although the effect of turmeric on mood disorders, depression, and dementia has also been studied, the results are inconclusive due to small sample sizes, hence the need for further research.
- In addition to these conditions, some research studies have suggested that turmeric may have potential benefits for other health issues as well.
- Inflammation
- Degenerative eye conditions
- Metabolic syndrome
- Arthritis
- Hyperlipidemia (cholesterol in the blood)
- Anxiety
- Muscle soreness after exercise
- Kidney health
Turmeric Tea
Similar to ginger, turmeric root can be used to create a nourishing and delicious tea. Follow Brown’s technique:
- 2 tablespoons turmeric root chopped or 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- Bring to a boil in 1–2 cups water
- Lower to simmer for 5 minutes and then strain.
“You can drink turmeric tea warm or cold, and add lemon and/or honey to change the taste,” Brown advises.
Turmeric Water
Haldi or turmeric has always be intrinsic to Indian food and skin care, all thanks to its antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and vitamin C content. This spice has long been used in condiments, cuisine, and textile dyes, apart from being used medically. In traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, it has long been used as a cure for ailments like skin disorders, allergies, and joint discomfort. In fact, if you’re looking for a detox, the health benefits of turmeric water can astound you.
Can turmeric water help weight loss?
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Turmeric is a herb with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which makes it a great supplement for weight loss. Many people do not like the strong flavor of turmeric, but taking it as a supplement allows you to get the benefits without the taste. In a 2015 study published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Science, researchers found that overweight adults who took an 800 mg supplement containing 95 percent curcumin (a compound found in turmeric) along with a strict diet saw changes in their Body Mass Index of up to 2 percent during the first 30 days. This increased to 5-6 percent after 60 days, which is equivalent to a loss of more than 8 percent body fat.
Here are 6 other health benefits of turmeric water:
1. Improves your bowel movements
Turmeric is a well-known natural remedy that can help improve your digestion by stimulating the production of bile in the gallbladder and other digestive enzymes in the body. This, in turn, reduces the symptoms of bloating and enhances your metabolism, which is a crucial process for maintaining a healthy weight. By boosting your metabolism, turmeric can also support weight loss efforts.
2. Prevents heart diseases
“According to Chawla, heart diseases are often caused by high cholesterol levels. Thankfully, turmeric has been known to lower cholesterol levels and improve the lining of blood vessels. Additionally, it assists in regulating blood pressure and preventing blood clotting.
“According to Chawla, heart diseases are often caused by high cholesterol levels. Thankfully, turmeric has been known to lower cholesterol levels and improve the lining of blood vessels. Additionally, it assists in regulating blood pressure and preventing blood clotting.”.
3. Prevents Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease has no cure yet, so prevention is essential. Curcumin, found in turmeric, can help fight inflammation and oxidative damage, which are the main causes of the disease.
4. Reduces inflammation
Drinking a glass of warm turmeric water at night can assist your body in fighting inflammation. According to Vidhi, the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can help in combating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and chronic inflammatory disorders. Turmeric water can also alleviate joint pain in the elderly.
5. Improves skin health
Turmeric is a natural blood purifier that helps eliminate harmful toxins. Its antioxidant properties protect cells from damage, promote a brighter skin tone, and slow down the aging process. The consumption of turmeric water can help your skin look more radiant and healthier.
6. Boosts the immunity
Lastly, turmeric water helps in building a robust immune system. Turmeric has antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, which has made it a global sensation for a healthy immune system.
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