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August 17, 2023

The world is changing! A huge part of this change is in the ways we are consuming food, water and herbs. One of the most potent and popular herbs being used today might surprise you: Turmeric. 

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a spice with a vibrant golden color. It has been used for centuries in many cultures, particularly in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used as an enhancement to medicinal, religious, cultural and culinary traditions. Turmeric is quickly becoming one of the most popular herbs, and it is clear why.

Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin, which is believed to be responsible for many of its potential health benefits. Some of the well-researched health benefits of turmeric and curcumin include:

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES
Curcumin is known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions. Curcumin may help reduce inflammation by inhibiting certain inflammatory pathways.

ANTIOXIDANT ACTION
Curcumin is also a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage.

PAIN RELIEF 
Turmeric has been used traditionally to alleviate pain. Some studies suggest that curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce pain and improve symptoms in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

HEART HEALTH
Curcumin might have positive effects on heart health by improving the function of the endothelium (the lining of blood vessels), reducing inflammation, and improving lipid profiles. This could potentially contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease.

BRAIN HEALTH
Curcumin may have neuroprotective effects and could potentially help in the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties might play a role in supporting brain health.

CANCER PREVENTION
Some research suggests that curcumin might have anti-cancer properties by interfering with the development, growth, and spread of cancer cells. However, more studies are needed to fully understand its potential in cancer prevention and treatment.

DIGESTIVE HEALTH
Turmeric has been used to aid digestion and alleviate digestive issues in traditional medicine. It may help stimulate bile production and support overall digestive function.

SKIN HEALTH 
Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties might be beneficial for certain skin conditions. It’s often used topically in skincare products to address issues like acne and psoriasis.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
Some studies suggest that curcumin might have a positive impact on weight management by helping regulate metabolism and promoting fat loss.

DIABETES MANAGEMENT
Curcumin might have a role in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

From my perspective, the younger generation is leading the way in this herbal revolution as herbs and spices are gaining traction as healthier options to chemicals and additives.

Tip: Black pepper contains a compound called piperine, which can enhance the bioavailability of curcumin. 

Here’s how this enhancement occurs:

Inhibition of Enzymes: Piperine inhibits certain enzymes in the liver and intestine that would normally break down curcumin before it has a chance to be absorbed. This inhibition allows more curcumin to pass through the digestive system intact.

Increased Intestinal Permeability: Piperine has been shown to increase the permeability of the intestinal lining, which can further facilitate the absorption of curcumin molecules.

Improved Blood Flow: Piperine may also enhance blood flow in the digestive tract, which can aid in the transportation of curcumin into the bloodstream.

The combination of curcumin and piperine has been studied extensively, and research suggests that the presence of piperine can increase the bioavailability of curcumin by several hundred percent. This enhanced absorption can lead to higher levels of curcumin in the bloodstream and tissues, potentially increasing its beneficial effects.


Here is a fun, easy recipe to help you get started on your Turmeric-loving journey:

MATCHA LATTE WITH TURMERIC

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup canned light coconut milk
  • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 pinch ground black pepper
  • 1 pinch ground cardamom
  • 1/2 – 1 Tbsp maple syrup*
  • 1/2 – 3/4 tsp matcha powder

Instructions:

  1. Whisk all ingredients except matcha powder in a small saucepan and warm gently. Then whisk in matcha with 15 ml hot water in a small bowl or mug until smooth. Then pour the mixture into the saucepan and whisk again to combine.
  2. Alternatively, you can mix all ingredients in a milk frother and turn on the warm setting to mix and heat.
  3. Enjoy this healthy boost immediately!

Turmeric is one of my favorite herbs and is an easy, fun way to get some powerful, herbal healing into your eating/drinking/supplement routine.  

Have fun with this bright yellow-orange root!

If you are looking for a quick and easy way to bring the benefits of Turmeric into your daily routine, consider our Truly Turmeric w/Black Pepper. The black pepper increases the bioavailability of curcumin. This product does not contain any fillers, just pure Turmeric  goodness! You can find it by the single bottle or bundled in a 3 pack for extra savings.

Disclaimer: Please keep in mind I am not a doctor and this is not meant to be medical advice. All the information on this website is for educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the FDA. We are not making any claims about the efficacy of these products. This information, these products and our suggestions are not meant to prescribe, diagnose, prevent, treat, cure any disease or replace proper medical care. Please check with your doctor before taking any of these products.

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