TURMERIC

What is it?

Turmeric is a relative of the ginger plant, found in Southeast Asia. “It comes from the root of the Curcuma Longa Plant” (Turmeric and Curcumin: Health Benefits and Safety – Verywell Health). The active component is curcumin and is responsible for its bright yellow color.

Why take it?

The list of possible benefits is long but beware, there is not a lot of evidence to support most of the claims.

Depression; mixed results
Type II Diabetes; possible prevention of development for prediabetes. May also help to lower blood sugar of diabetics due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Insulin sensitivity may also improve. More research is needed
Viral infections; no studies done on humans
Possible reduction of LDL cholesterol, mixed results
PMS and menstrual cramps; the component curcumin may help with this issue due to anti-inflammatory properties
Alzheimer’s: no evidence that it helps or prevents this disease
Arthritis: might help if black pepper is added to the formula
Cancer, stops tumor growth in animals
IBS: being studied to see if it can decrease abdominal pain
Acne: Some people are making a paste of the powder and applying it to their face; however, there is no proof that it works
Headaches: May help to lessen pain but not prevent migraines. Mor research is needed