How to tell what is definitely good for you? Well, how about essentials of healthy nutrition, the renowned ginger? Certainly a safe bet! Let us introduce you to something even better -warm, an earthy-sweet descendant of the ginger root family - turmeric. The golden spice happens to be not only the colourful relish but the wealth of health benefits, proven and peer-reviewed by scientists, chefs and doctors, both holistic gurus of ancient Ayurveda and nutrition experts of traditional modern medicine.
As exotic as its Asian roots, turmeric is by far the most unique and most powerful herb out there. Golden plated triple-A rated, literally. The unusually bright yellow colour should get you thinking about only one natural chemical – curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, an anti-inflammatory remedy and a very strong antioxidant.
The Jar Healthy Vending team, obviously extremely charmed by countless benefits, couldn’t overlook such precious gem. We are also not sure where to start, because turmeric is noticed to help everything from headaches, bronchitis, hay fever, acne to arthritis, stomach pain and even Crohn’s disease. Basically, a one-size-fits-all panacea!
So here we go, first in our Ingredient Digest Series:
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The most pronounced health benefit of turmeric is its ability to reduce inflammation. According to numerous studies, curcumin is even considered the most effective anti-inflammatory compound in the world on par with medical drugs, but with no side effects. Insert shocked emoji here. From treating arthritis to fighting first symptoms of Alzheimer’s and even cancer turmeric can be your go-to natural remedy.
Antioxidant Power
Oxidative processes are important, but only when they happen in perfect balance. Once oxygen-containing molecules called free radicals outnumber antioxidants in our body, a large chain of chemical reactions starts taking place and leads not only to fast ageing but a number of other diseases. Turmeric, with its special properties, neutralises free radicals and also boosts your body to produce your own antioxidant enzymes. Twofold win. Not going to lie, this makes us want to have a turmeric-infused smoothie right away.
Detox Agent
Moving further, the antioxidant properties of turmeric are so strong that they are noticed to positively affect liver function and reduce the harmful effect of toxins. It’s exciting indeed. But again, don’t go overboard with adding too much of turmeric, like any other medicine – the more doesn’t mean better.
Depression Aid
So common nowadays, depression is a no joke deal that should never be ignored or left untreated. Obviously, it’s impossible to know the universal cause and treatment for it, but studies show that chronic inflammation and depression can exacerbate each other. Here turmeric comes in handy. By reducing inflammation it might actually alleviate the symptoms of depression. In fact, studies proved that turmeric is as effective as an antidepressant.
Skin Health Booster
Turmeric is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits that can be of use not only internally but externally too. Turmeric doesn’t only heal wounds, scars and even psoriasis but also calms pores and decreases acne. If you are going after that glowing face, turmeric may be your natural remedy. Be careful though, the colour agent in turmeric is highly potent and may leave your face glowing yellow. Oops!
Diabetes Support
The ancient Ayurvedic medicine used turmeric as a healing agent for good reason. Some studies show that curcumin can potentially reduce glucose levels and generally stabilise blood sugar levels, thus making diabetes more manageable.
Brain Health Solution
It’s no secret that healthy brain function is everything. They say reading is one thing that enhances brain connectivity or, in other words, neuron connections. Well, if you include turmeric in your diet, these processes may be even more effective. Studies show, that curcumin increases the level of growth hormone that functions in your brain and drives the processes of multiplying and increasing new connections. So if you want to improve memory turmeric is your no-brainer!
Ways to include turmeric in your diet
Since it’s the main ingredient in curry dishes, we assume not everyone is a fan of it. The Jar Healthy Vending tried our best to include the golden treasure in the menu without compromising on taste, so you can experience the benefits yourself by getting a Pollen&Grace Turmeric Immunity Box, PRESS Sweet Potato&Turmeric Soup, PRESS Sweet Citrus Juice, Pollen&Grace Mango&Turmeric Chia Pot, Pollen&Grace Turmeric + Butternut Daal, Pure Earth - Shot Stuff, PRESS Turmeric Super Shot, Rejuce - Apple Mango Turmeric cold pressed juice or DRGN turmeric infused sparkling drink.
But if you are willing to go further, add a little extra of turmeric powder to your morning porridge, have it with any other smoothie or mix it with a salad dressing.
Stay healthy!