Turmeric, or as we like to call it in the store – The Golden Child – has long been known as the ingredient that makes curry a sunny golden color. But recently, turmeric is getting a lot of attention for its medicinal benefits as well. In this series of posts, we demystify turmeric and teach you how to use it effectively.

Medicinal Benefits of Turmeric

The primary medical compound in turmeric is the polyphenol curcumin which is a substance with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in Indian Ayurvedic medicine as a remedy for cuts, concussions, aches, pains and inflammation to name a few ailments.

Research studies have now been done on the health benefits of turmeric and curcumin and have concluded that it is a safe and effective way to reduce inflammation and prevent or treat its associated diseases. Turmeric helps to heal injuries and infections because of its anti-inflammatory properties.  It has been shown to reduce exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness. Enhance your recovery with a turmeric-based drink.

Turmeric can also help with ailments that are associated with chronic inflammation such as obesity and arthritis.  The combination of being anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative, it can help chronic conditions including metabolic syndrome issues and even anxiety.

Turmeric is recognized to be safe, especially when used in cooking. Reports of nausea and diarrhea have been reported when used in large doses, which occurs with supplements.