Turmeric is native plant from Southeast Asia and some part of India. The plant comes from ginger family, called Curcuma longa. The part which is commonly used is the rhizomes. This part of the plant is grounded into deep orange-yellow powder and can be used as additive in food.
1. Reduce Inflammation
One of the most popular benefit of turmeric is its anti-inflammatory properties. It is known to reduce the swelling that is caused by inflammation in any part of the body.
2. Reduce the Pain from Arthritis
According to Shmerling (2021), there is a potential benefit of consuming turmeric to relieve arthritis. Although the study is currently limited, turmeric has less side effect than the over the counter medication.
3. Improves Memory
According to Small et al. (2018), turmeric can improve the brain function. Within 18 months, the adults who consumes turmeric orally shows the signs of improved cognitive function. Some people believes that turmeric can prevent Alzheimer’s disease, although there is no research to support it at the moment.
4. Source of Antioxidants
Turmeric, or what is commonly referred as curcumin, is rich in antioxidants. This means, consuming turmeric will help your body to fight free radical damage, including various disease and aging.
5. Help with Depression
Turmeric can reduce the symptom of depression by treating depression pathophysiology (Ramaholimihaso et. al, 2020). This involves the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties in turmeric that might cause anti-depressant effect on human.
Reference:
- Ramaholimihaso et al. (2020). Curcumin in Depression: Potential Mechanisms of Action and Current Evidence—A Narrative Review
- Shmerling, R.H. (2021). Curcumin for arthritis: Does it really work? Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/curcumin-for-arthritis-does-it-really-work-2019111218290
- Small et al. (2018). Memory and Brain Amyloid and Tau Effects of a Bioavailable Form of Curcumin in Non-Demented Adults: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled 18-Month Trial. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 26(3), 266-277. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1064748117305110?via%3Dihub
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