Turmeric, also referred to as curcumin, is a spice mainly used in Asia and Central America. However, it has become more and more popular in other countries thanks to its many health benefits. It has been used in ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years, and some more recent studies have concluded many of its health benefits.
What are some health benefits of turmeric consumption?
According to health experts, this spice reduces inflammation. Therefore, it helps people suffering from arthritis. It is also used as a pain reliever, and it can be another option for those who cannot take synthetic medicine such as ibuprofen. Another study mentions the optimal daily dosage for this spice to work as a pain reliever.
Turmeric is beneficial for the liver because it has antioxidant properties and it cleans the liver. The active compound, curcumin, can help in clearing toxins from our liver, and it can be used for those who need to take a lot of medication due to health issues. The active substance enhances the antioxidation process in the liver and fights off the harmful side effects medicine has on our bodies.
Another great health benefit is that it improves digestion. Medical experts explain that researchers are studying how turmeric can treat people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive illnesses. Other studies mention that turmeric can fight off several types of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer, myeloma, and prostate cancer. However, this spice can trigger side effects for those with underlying health issues such as low blood pressure, pregnant women, and more.
How to cook with turmeric?
The great news is that this spice is very versatile, and it can be used in many products, including food dishes, tea, smoothies, lattes, and more. When we add this spice to a dish, it colors the ingredients. Depending on how much we add, our rice, for example, can take a more yellowish or orange color. The wonderful color can be adjusted by adding more of the spice to your star ingredient.
A great example of a dish with turmeric is meat and rice. You can rub the spice into your chicken and mix some with your rice before cooking it. Those who want to use it in more significant quantities can ask their doctor if taking turmeric-based supplements is suitable for them.