Turmeric, A Popular Spice
Turmeric is a spice that has been consumed in India for more than 500 years BC. It was also used as a vegetable dye for certain textiles.
Turmeric has been a very popular ingredient in the gastronomy of countries like India for hundreds and hundreds of years. In fact, it is one of the ingredients of the famous curry. Its main characteristic is its intense yellow color with a certain orange hue. It is obtained from the root of the plant that comes from southwestern India.
This spice has been shown to contain a high index of iron, sodium, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Therefore, it is considered that the consumption of this spice could be very beneficial for health, for various aspects. Next we will comment on some of the most important ones so that you are encouraged to include a little more turmeric in your diet.
Possible benefits of turmeric
1. It would improve digestion
Turmeric could act as a tonic that stimulates the secretions of gastric and pancreatic juice, thereby facilitating digestion. It would be recommended for those who suffer from dyspepsia, slow digestion, chronic gastritis or lack of appetite.
2. It would help to expel gases
Being carminative, turmeric would help expel gas from the intestine. It would also serve to relieve colic, thanks to components (such as eugenol). It is considered that this spice could be valid to relieve stomach atony, flatulence and acid dyspepsia.
3. It would protect the liver
Turmeric could be a hepatoprotective ingredient. It is considered that it would help eliminate gallstones and, having some anti-inflammatory action, it would also provide relief.
4. It would relieve inflammations
There are those who consider that patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis as well as those suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, could take advantage of the anti-inflammatory properties of this spice through its regular consumption. However, it is still necessary to deepen this aspect.
Additionally, turmeric is considered to have immunomodulatory capacity. Therefore, it could be useful in the treatment of bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
5. Regulate cholesterol
On the other hand, it is considered that the components of this spice would help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. In addition to eating a healthier diet, eating more fruits, and leaving out fried foods and fats, consuming turmeric could help support good cardiovascular health.
6. It would fight bacterial infections
According to several investigations, this spice has antibacterial properties that would be very convenient to treat some bacterial infections.
Turmeric could also be a natural antidepressant
According to traditional Chinese medicine, turmeric is used to treat depression and improve mood.
Studies (including the one published by a team of researchers from the Department of Pharmacology of the Government Medical College , in Bhavnagar, in the journal Phytotherapy Research ) reveal that consuming turmeric extract or turmeric powder serves to stimulate the nervous system, but also , has effects on the immune system and mood. Therefore, it reduces stress levels and causes an increase in the production of serotonin.
Precautions in the use of turmeric
The consumption of turmeric is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, because it can put the health of the baby at risk. It is also not allowed in patients with gallbladder problems and people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) because it can cause them more discomfort.
Finally, it is also contraindicated in recently operated patients, since this spice slows blood clotting.
