Turmeric: The Healthy Wonder Spice

In an article by world-renowned holistic doctor, Andrew Weil, MD, entitled, 3 Reasons to Eat Turmeric, under the heading, What is Turmeric? He states:

“Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a culinary spice that spans cultures – it is a major ingredient in Indian curries, and makes American mustard yellow. But evidence is accumulating that this brightly colored relative of ginger is a promising disease-preventive agent as well, probably due largely to its anti-inflammatory action.”

The article goes on to state that, “…turmeric appears to outperform many pharmaceuticals in its effects against several chronic, debilitating diseases, and does so with virtually no adverse side effects.”

The Turmeric Extract Curcumin Found to Reduce Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression in a Recent Study Out of Australia

A randomized, double-blind study of the benefits of turmeric/curcumin as it applies to anxiety and depression recently backed up the results of former studies that showed the effectiveness of the turmeric extract in functioning as an anxiolytic. Dr. Adrian Lopressor, who headed up the research study at Murdoch University in Australia, said:

“Curcumin’s positive antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects are likely due to its ability to normalize specific physiological pathways. It appears to elevate neurotransmitters such as serotonin, while lowering stress hormones, such as cortisol, and is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Curcumin also provides protection to the brain.”

Speaking of protecting the brain, it seems that multiple studies have shown that the turmeric/curcumin extract is almost a wonder spice/herb. Of its many amazing benefits, the following are sited:

Anxiety and Depression

Alzheimer’s Disease

Heart Disease

Cancer

Arthritis

Longevity

Anti-aging

Studies have now revealed that what seems to account for the multiple health benefits found in the turmeric/curcumin extract are due in large part to its very strong and powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

It should be noted that the curcumin found in turmeric, although extremely low in weight, is what mostly accounts for the health benefits. Curcumin alone does not absorb well into the bloodstream. It is therefore important to be sure that it is combined with piperine (or bioperine). The piperine boosts absorption by about 2000%. If the turmeric/curcumin extract is taken alone, most of the extract will pass through your digestive tract without giving you the benefits you are trying to achieve.

While we are siting the benefits of turmeric/curcumin, here is another one that you will want to keep in mind. Due to its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, curcumin strongly fights free radicals. But it gets even better. It stimulates your body to boost its own antioxidants.

With all of this research evidence, it’s no wonder that it prompted Kris Gunnars, a nutrition researcher with a BSc, to state the following:

“Turmeric may be the most effective nutritional supplement in existence.”

You can read his full article at, 10 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin.