Turmeric is a spice that has a wide range of benefits. It has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
It also helps to support healthy digestion. It’s often used in different herbal preparations for its healing effects. It can be found in fresh and dried forms.
1. It’s a Natural Antioxidant
Antioxidants are a group of compounds that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. They are found in fruits, vegetables and spices and can be beneficial to your health.
Turmeric is an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly curcumin, the compound responsible for the spice’s orange-yellow color. Studies have shown that curcumin is a strong anti-inflammatory, which helps to improve blood flow and reduce pain.
It also helps to decrease cholesterol levels and balance your body’s hormones. The compound has also been shown to improve wound healing and muscle regeneration.
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2. It Helps to Lower Cholesterol
Turmeric’s antioxidant properties help protect blood vessels from oxidative damage, which is one of the leading causes of heart disease. It also helps lower LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides, which are fats in the blood that can build up and cause cardiovascular disease.
There are a few ways you can incorporate turmeric into your diet, including adding it to soups, smoothies and tea. You can even take supplements that contain powder, fluids and extracts. However, you should always check with your doctor before using any natural supplements, as they may interact with certain medications or have unfavorable side effects.
3. It’s a Natural Diuretic
Turmeric is a natural diuretic and can help you get rid of excess fluid. You can enjoy turmeric as a tea or add it to your diet in various ways.
You may also find that certain foods, such as cucumber, are helpful in balancing water levels within the body. This can help prevent kidney or heart damage and promote overall health.
Moreover, some teas, such as green or black tea, can increase urine production and remove extra water from the body. These teas are often filled with antioxidants, like catechins, epigallocatechins and other antioxidants.
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4. It’s a Natural Anti-Inflammatory
Whether you use it as a spice in your cooking or pop turmeric pills, curcumin, the primary compound in turmeric, may help reduce inflammation in your body. It’s especially useful for reducing chronic inflammation, which has been linked to diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
To combat inflammation, try to eat a diet that’s high in antioxidant-rich foods such as tomatoes, olive oil, nuts, spinach, kale, collard greens, fatty fish and fruits. You can also add turmeric to your smoothies and juices for added anti-inflammatory benefits.
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5. It’s a Natural Antioxidant
Antioxidants are substances that fight off free radicals, which are harmful to our health. They are a key component of the body’s natural defense system against disease and aging.
Curcumin, the most common compound in turmeric, is a potent antioxidant. It neutralizes existing free radicals in the body and boosts the activity of our own antioxidant enzymes.
Turmeric is one of the most popular spices used in cuisines across the world. You’ll find it in a wide variety of dishes, from mugs of hot tea to smoothies and even savory foods like eggs.