(Newswire.net — May 18, 2018) — The two words-“turmeric” and “curcumin” are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. Curcumin is actually a chemical component of turmeric, the yellow-colored spice that we put on our food. For centuries, these compounds were praised and utilized widely for their medicinal properties, and the Western world is beginning to catch up on appreciating the full extent of their remarkable qualities.
What does curcumin do as a part of turmeric?
The bright yellow coloring of the familiar spice turmeric is actually possible due to the presence of curcumin. In fact, the primary-yellow color is sometimes used as a natural food colorant in many different kinds of meals.
Curcumin is also said to be the greatest asset of turmeric, as it’s where the one-two punch of anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties merge to create a surprisingly helpful seasoning. So really, when you’re singing the praises of turmeric, it’s this chemical compound that you’re really thankful for.
What are the health benefits of curcumin?
Before we get into this, it’s important to understand that there are few large studies that have been conducted on the long-term use of turmeric. While turmeric is generally safe to ingest in smaller quantities, there are some side effects that have been observed after long-term use, such as nausea and even stomach ulcers. Always refer to your physician before you start taking a turmeric supplement.
With that out of the way, let’s talk health benefits. There’s a lot to be said for this colorful spice, with numerous studies suggesting a link between curcumin and tumor growth reduction. That’s a pretty tall order, and some studies have found potentially conflicting information, which is important to keep in mind.
Can a simple spice really be associated with anti-cancer properties? While, again, there have been no large-scale studies conducted on humans to this effect, some animal-based studies show strong support for this claim. Regulated doses of turmeric have been shown to have protective qualities that protected animal subjects from cancers of the blood, skin, intestine, mouth and pancreas.
In addition to the inhibition of tumor growth, curcumin and turmeric have been suggested in the treatment of:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriasis
- Cognitive issues like dementia
As well as all of these observed benefits, researchers are now beginning to look into curcumin’s anti-depressant effects-mostly to discover if any exist. Once there is a greater understanding of what curcumin and turmeric can do, we can learn how to most effectively utilize it in treating auto-immune illnesses and helping the elderly to stave off the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
Curcumin is absolutely loaded with potential, of which we currently only understand a small amount. It is worth keeping in mind that India, where curcumin is a staple in many well-loved meals, sees a lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease than the western world.
Where can I buy curcumin?
With the help of this glorious thing called the internet, you can order curcumin and curcumin supplements right to your door with the press of a button on your smart phone, tablet or laptop. Available on pharmacy websites, major retailers and online grocery services , curcumin can be purchased at the same time when you do your ordinary online errands.
Not only is it inexpensive, it can be purchased at various dosages (in supplement form) to suit the regimen that you have in mind for your curcumin-inclusive life. With the help of an online grocery delivery company, you can get your turmeric or curcumin delivered right to your front door in a professional, courteous and efficient way.
Turmeric is an incredibly helpful spice, in addition to being colorful and flavorful. It’s one of those things can be added into almost any diet in a genuinely enjoyable way, while our bodies work to process it in the most healthful way. There’s no reason not to add a bit of turmeric to your dishes, but do consult with your physician before you consider beginning a curcumin or turmeric supplement.