Investigating the Excitement Surrounding Turmeric: Uncovering the Reasons Behind Its Popularity
Turmeric, a popular spice used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, has been a staple in traditional medicine for over 3,000 years. Its use can be traced back to treating inflammatory and digestive conditions. Modern research, however, has focused on extracts of the spice, particularly curcumin, to harness its specific active components more effectively (1).
Curcumin, the compound responsible for turmeric's vibrant yellow colour in dishes like curries, has been the centre of attention due to its bioactive properties. One such property is its potent antioxidant ability, which helps prevent free radical damage, a factor linked to heart disease, cancer, and accelerated aging (2).
Moreover, curcumin has shown promise in fighting chronic, low-level inflammation at the molecular level. Inflammation, when persistent and low-level, is now thought to be a precursor to many chronic illnesses, including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, autoimmune conditions, and others (3).
While curcumin is a powerful antioxidant, it is poorly absorbed unless paired with other spices like black pepper (4). Most studies have focused on curcumin extracts used in doses of upwards of 1 gram per day (5). However, it is important to note that turmeric contains only about 3% curcumin by weight, so consuming turmeric as part of a well-balanced and well-spiced diet is recommended.
However, it's not all smooth sailing for curcumin. There are potential side effects, such as blood thinning, and it's best to consult a doctor before using curcumin supplements (6). Additionally, recent studies suggest that curcumin may protect against certain degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's (7).
Lastly, the rise in interest in turmeric's bioactive compounds has led to it becoming an "it" ingredient in the health and wellness world. With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it's no wonder that turmeric continues to be a focus of research and a valuable addition to our diets.
