Turmeric has been used as a dietary supplement for centuries. It’s one of the most vibrant spices in your kitchen, and it just so happens to be a potent medicine as well. Turmeric is actually part of the ginger family, and its orange-yellow pigment comes from curcuminoids, a powerful antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in cooking and traditional medicines from India. It is believed to offer a variety of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, preventing cancer, and improving heart health.

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Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is thought to be responsible for most of its health benefits. So what are some of those benefits? To start, it is a natural anti-inflammatory agent. Because of this, it can help reduce inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis and allergies. In addition, turmeric may be effective in reducing the severity and frequency of attacks for those who suffer from asthma. Curcumin also speeds up the body’s response to infection because it assists the body with fighting pathogens. It also helps digestive health because it can reduce cramping and discomfort in the GI tract. It also reduces diarrhea by calming spasms in the intestine.

Additionally, this spice can help prevent artery blockage that can lead to heart attacks or strokes. Curcumin also helps keep blood vessels flexible and increases their elasticity, which prevents harmful blood clots from forming. Turmeric may even reduce LDL cholesterol levels and lower triglycerides. Turmeric helps with a number of other issues as well. It can relieve arthritis and menstrual cramps and reduce bloating and gas. People with psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that results in dry, red patches on the skin, may benefit from using turmeric as a topical treatment to alleviate their symptoms. Turmeric also has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. So if you are looking to improve your overall health, adding turmeric to your diet may be a good idea. But it’s always advised to talk to your doctor first before starting any new supplements.