Evidence Based Awesome Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is a ‘miracle herb’. You have heard this one quite a number of times. But what makes this herb so miraculous.

Bioactive ingredients found in this herb are pleiotropic in nature- the same molecule can bind to a variety of enzymes and other molecular targets in the body.

Turmeric has basic pharmacological properties which are beneficial in many health conditions.

1. It is an anti-inflammatory agent

The foremost reason to use turmeric in almost any health condition is its anti-inflammatory property.

Curcumin is the compound in turmeric that has potent anti-inflammatory property. As an anti-inflammatory agent, it inhibits the activity of nuclear factor kappa B- the master protein that regulates inflammatory process.

Like conventional anti-inflammatory agents, it inhibits the activity of inflammatory enzymes such as COX and LOX. Additionally, it inhibits the activity of various inflammatory chemicals and proteins such as TNF-alpha, interleukin etc.

One advantage over conventional anti-inflammatory agents is that turmeric does not cause gastric side effects. Curcumin free turmeric is also found to have anti-inflammatory property.

2. It is a natural painkiller

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory property contributes to its painkiller property. Its inhibitory action on inflammatory chemicals like prostaglandins and interleukins helps in reducing pain.

This painkiller property has been found to be useful in dealing with post-surgical pain and burn injuries.

Additionally, curcumin is also found to relieve neuropathic pain which is similar to pins and needles sensation.

Even turmeric oil has analgesic properties and research shows that its painkiller properties are comparable to aspirin.

3. It is a potent antioxidant

Curcuminoids present in turmeric are strong antioxidants. Their antioxidant activity is comparable to vitamin C and E. As antioxidants they function in 3 ways:
• Reduce oxidative stress or imbalance between prooxidant and antioxidant species in the body
• Raise the level of antioxidant enzymes
• Scavenge free radical species that cause oxidative damage

Thus they ameliorate oxidative stress in conditions like diabetes and thalassemia.

4. It protects DNA from damage

Turmeric and curcumin have genoprotective property- they protect cellular DNA from damage. However, curcumin plays a dual role in DNA damage.

In case of cancerous cells, curcumin induces DNA damage and sensitizes cells to chemotherapeutic agents.

However, this is not the case with normal cells. A study shows that by virtue of its antioxidant property, aqueous turmeric extract offers 80% protection from DNA damage.

To know more about turmeric’s role in preventing DNA damage please (Read – Turmeric for DNA damage

5. It helps in heavy metal detoxification

Turmeric benefits in the treatment of heavy metal poisoning by virtue of its antioxidant property and chelating (ability to bind to metal and remove them from the body) property.

(Read – Turmeric for Lead Poisoning, Turmeric for Aluminium Toxicity, Turmeric for Mercury Poisoning, Turmeric for Cadmium Poisoning)

6. Turmeric speeds up post operative recovery

Turmeric has a number of properties that benefit in restoring health and speeding recovery after surgery. Its anti-microbial and immune boosting properties help safe guard from infections.

Its wound healing properties help in quick healing of scars. Turmeric combats post-operative fatigue and pain. (Read – Turmeric for post operative recovery)

Turmeric Helps Digestive System

Turmeric has gastroprotective properties which aids in digestion and protects from digestive disorders.

7. It improves digestion and stomach health

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action is found to protect the digestive tract from bacterial infections.

Traditional medicine states that turmeric is a carminative- it helps in relieving bloating. Turmeric is an effective digestive aid.

(Read – How to use Turmeric for stomach Problems, Turmeric and Gastritis, Turmeric for Healthy stomach)

8. It benefits in GERD and acid reflux

Turmeric benefits in acid reflux or GERD in multiple ways. It improves digestion, exerts bactericidal effect on H.pylori infection, prevents the formation of ulcers, soothes inflammation and even protects from silent reflux.

However, if taken at high doses or an empty stomach, it may trigger acid reflux in some.

(Read – 5 reasons why Turmeric can help in Heartburn, Can Turmeric cause Acidity/Acid reflux?)

9. It helps in treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Curcumin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties aid in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. (Read – Turmeric Benefits in IBD Turmeric for Crohns)

10. It reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

Turmeric extract supplementation is found to reduce abdominal pain and improve bowel movement in IBS. (Read Turmeric for Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

11. Turmeric protects pancreas from disorders

Research shows that curcumin can prevent and treat pancreatitis. Its anti-inflammatory activity benefits in pancreatitis.

It is also beneficial in pancreatic cancer. (Read – Turmeric for Pancreatitis)

Turmeric for Bones, Joints, etc.

Turmeric’s analgesic, anti-arthritic and bone protective property benefits in various disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

12. It reduces severity of various types of arthritis

Curcumin has multiple ways in treating rheumatoid arthritis:
• It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.
• It improves antioxidant defences.
• It ameliorates autoimmune reactions.
• It protects bone cells.

Supplementation of curcumin in individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis is found to significantly reduce pain and improve joint function better than conventional therapy.

(Read – 6 ways turmeric benefits in Rheumatoid Arthritis, 15 Benefits of Turmeric for Arthritis, How Turmeric Can Help in Juvenile Arthritis)

13. It protects bone in osteoarthritis

Research shows that curcumin formulations outperform conventional anti-arthritic drugs prescribed in osteoarthritis.

Curcumin also protects bone tissue and prevents bone loss. (Read – Turmeric Benefits for Osteoarthritis)

14. It can help in healing of bone fractures

Traditionally turmeric has been used in treatment of bone fractures.

Topically turmeric paste is applied to affected region and Turmeric Milk is also ingested to hasten healing.

The mechanism behind this is that turmeric controls inflammatory process and helps in reducing pain. Further turmeric helps protect bone tissue and aids in bone remodelling.

To understand this in detail please Read – Can Turmeric Help In Healing Bone Fractures?

15. It helps in treatment of muscle disorders

Research suggests that curcumin’s anti-inflammatory property can aid in treatment of various musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, musculocartilaginous disorders, and sarcoma etc.

It also helps in relieving pain, preventing loss of muscle mass and improving antioxidant defences.

(Read – Turmeric for ankylosing spondylitis, Turmeric for bursitis Turmeric for piriformis syndrome, Turmeric for sciatica)

Turmeric Helps Hematologic system/Blood related disorders

As an antioxidant, turmeric benefits in various blood disorders.

16. It aids in treatment of thalassemia

Supplementation with curcuminoids improves antioxidant defense in thalassemia. (Read – 3 Benefits of Turmeric In Thalassemia?)

17. Dietary turmeric may benefit in anemia

Dietary turmeric can benefit in anemia due to its antioxidant property which aids in normalizing antioxidant defences in anemia. Additionally, curcumin exerts a protective effect on red blood cells.

Curcumin’s iron chelating activity is speculated to cause iron deficiency in anemia but turmeric is a rich source of iron.( For more details Read Can Turmeric Help in Anemia?)

18. Curcumin has anti-platelet property

Curcumin has blood thinning property- it prevents the formation of blood clots and reduces the risk of stroke.

Hence it is advised to avoid curcumin supplements with blood thinners. However, there is no evidence found in humans. This property of curcumin benefits in thrombosis.
(Read – Turmeric and warfarin Turmeric and thrombosis)

19. It benefits spleen health

Turmeric’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory property is found to benefit spleen health by boosting its immune function and protecting it from heavy metal toxicity.

(Read – How Turmeric Can Benefit Spleen Health)

Turmeric for Brain and Nervous System

Turmeric has neuroprotective properties that benefit in psychiatric disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and protect the brain and nerves from injury.

20. It alleviates depression

Indian researchers have proven that curcumin is as good as Prozac in treating depression and combination of curcumin and Prozac is effective in treating depression than Prozac alone.

Scientific literature proves that curcumin benefits in depressive disorders in multiple ways: as an anti-inflammatory agent, antioxidant, neuroprotective agent.

(Read – 10 Reasons Why Turmeric is great for depression, Turmeric for Bipolar Disorder)

21. It benefits in post traumatic stress disorder

Preliminary studies suggest that dietary curcumin can reduce reactivation of fear memories in post traumatic stress disorder.

Additionally, it’s anti-inflammatory property and ability to relieve stress and anxiety helps in this condition. (Read –Turmeric for post traumatic stress disorder)

22. It benefits in bipolar disorder

Dietary changes can benefit in bipolar disorder.

Curcumin’s multi-action potential in depression, its ability to downregulate inflammation in the brain as well as its ability to influence neurotransmitters can benefit in bipolar disorder. (Read – Turmeric for bipolar disorder)

23. It can boost memory and help in learning disorders

Curcumin is found to restore memory and function that is impaired due to brain damage, neurodegenerative diseases or age related decline in brain function.

(Read – Turmeric for memory loss)

24. It can prevent Alzheimer’s disease

Curcumin can be helpful in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s disease.

Its anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant property, ability to reduce beta amyloid plaques, metal chelating activity and memory boosting property can help in treatment of Alzheimer’s. (Read – Can Turmeric help in Alzheimer’s?)

25. It is therapeutic in Parkinson’s

Curcumin can aid in treatment of Parkinson’s disease due to its antioxidant property and neuroprotective property.

Chinese researchers state that curcumin’s anti-inflammatory property and ability to prevent alpha-synuclein aggregation (a protein that contributes to development of Parkinson’s) can aid in Parkinson’s treatment. (Read – Turmeric for Parkinsons)

26. It helps in recovery after stroke

Turmeric’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties aid in prevention as well as treatment of stroke. (Read –Turmeric-Your defense against stroke)

27. It benefits in epilepsy and seizures

Turmeric has anti-epileptogenic effect and helps in reducing onset as well as occurrence of seizures.

Curcumin potentiates the effect of anti-epileptic drugs and also reduces the dose of anti-eplieptic drugs required for treatment.

Turmeric oil also has anti-convulsant activity. (Read – Turmeric and Epilepsy)

28. It reduces morphine tolerance/dependence

Opioid painkillers are prescribed as the last options for treating chronic pain. However these medications have side effects, are addictive and after a certain term of usage one also tends to develop tolerance them.

Research show that curcumin can act via the same method as opioid painkillers to mitigate pain.

It also helps overcome side effects of such medicines, attenuates withdrawal symptoms and reduces the tolerance to these painkillers. (Read – Can Turmeric Replace Opioid painkillers?)

Turmeric for Eye and Ear Related Disorders

Turmeric’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties benefit in eye and ear disorders.

29. It helps in treatment of uveitis

Research shows that curcumin ameliorates inflammation in uveitis and reduces symptoms as early as a week. (Read – Turmeric Benefits For Uveitis)

30. It can help in treatment of glaucoma and cataract

Curcumin’s antioxidant property is beneficial in treatment of cataract.

Similarly curcumin’s antioxidant and neuroprotective property is found to be beneficial in treatment of glaucoma. (Read – Turmeric benefits for Glaucoma, Turmeric Benefits for Cataracts)

31. It can potentially aid in tinnitus treatment

Research has not yet investigated the role of turmeric in treatment of tinnitus but few of its pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-microbial property benefit in this condition.

To know more about turmeric and tinnitus please Read – Turmeric for tinnitus.

Turmeric for Oral Health

Turmeric benefits greatly in oral and dental care and hygiene. (Read – Why Turmeric is Fantastic for oral health and hygiene)

32. Turmeric holds health benefits in gingivitis

A pilot study demonstrates that curcumin mouthwash is as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash as an anti-inflammatory agent in treatment of gingivitis.

Oral turmeric gel helps in reducing inflammation in gingivitis.

33. It gets rid of plaque

Turmeric mouthwash is found to be more effective than chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing plaque and gum bleeding.

Turmeric gel is also found to have anti-plaque activity.

34. It is therapeutic in treatment of periodontitis

Experimental study reflects that turmeric benefits in periodontitis by suppressing bone loss and acting as anti-inflammatory agent.

It is also proven to slow down progression of periodontitis.

35. It is effective in treating oral lichen planus

Regular application of turmeric ointment is found to be effective in treating oral lichen planus completely in 3 months.

High dose of curcuminoids (6g/day) is beneficial in reducing swelling and ulceration in oral lichen planus. (Read –How Turmeric can help in lichen planus)

36. Turmeric benefits in oral ulcers

Curcumin enhances healing of mouth lining in oral ulcer. Curcumin gel can help in reducing number of ulcers as well as pain within 7 days.

Turmeric for Healthy Respiratory System

Turmeric is used traditionally to relieve many respiratory disorders such as cold, asthma and bronchitis.

37. It relieves cough and cold

One age old health benefit of turmeric is that instantly remedies flu. Turmeric Milk is a household remedy in India for treating cough and cold.

Turmeric oil is found to relieve cough and sputum. Inhalation of fumes of burning turmeric helps relieving nasal congestion. (Read – Turmeric for flu)

38. It is anti-asthma agent

Turmeric benefits in asthma in various ways.

Curcumin as an add-on therapy in bronchial asthma reduces airway obstruction and improves breathing capacity. (Read – Turmeric for asthma)

39. It protects from nicotine smoke induced damage

Curcumin and its related compounds work as antioxidants and help in reducing oxidative stress caused by nicotine in lungs.

It also attenuates cigarette smoke induced lung inflammation. (Read – Turmeric for smoking side effects)

40. It helps in treatment of COPD

Curcumin, by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant property, finds its use in various lung diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.

Research shows that curcumin treatment can reverse steroid resistance in COPD. (Read – Turmeric for COPD)

Turmeric for Liver & Gallbladder Diseases

Turmeric protects liver and gall bladder function from drug induced toxicity and disorders.

41. It protects liver from toxicity

Turmeric’s health benefits in liver health are not limited to anti-inflammatory action.

It protects liver from toxicity due to heavy metal, drugs and poisonous compounds. (Read – Benefits of turmeric in liver, Benefits of Turmeric in Alcoholism)

42. It protects from alcohol induced toxicity

Research shows that curcumin protects from oxidative stress, gastric inflammation, brain and liver toxicity occurring due to excessive alcohol consumption.

43. It remedies non alcoholic fatty liver disease

Curcumin treatment is found to bring a significant (78.9% ) improvement in non alcoholic fatty liver disease. (Read –Curcumin Resolves Non Alcoholic fatty liver disease in 8 weeks)

44. It aids in liver fibrosis treatment

Curcumin curbs inflammation in liver fibrosis. It causes cell death and suppresses proliferation of hepatic stellate cells, cells that contribute to development of liver fibrosis.

It also exerts anti-fibrosis activity. (Read – Turmeric Benefits For Cirrhosis, 5 Reasons Why Turmeric is Great for Liver Fibrosis)

45. It benefits in hepatitis

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory property benefits in hepatitis or liver inflammation. It also exerts anti-viral activity against Hepatitis virus.

It also protects liver from as well as restores liver function in case of drug induced hepatitis. (Read – Turmeric for hepatitis)

46. It can prevent gallstone formation

Turmeric is found to cause gallbladder contraction which is why it should be avoided when suffering from gallstones.

However if consumed as a part of diet, it can prevent occurrence of gallstones in the first place. (Read – Turmeric and Gallstones)

Turmeric Promotes Metabolic Health [ Diabetes, BP, Weight Loss]

Turmeric improves metabolic health by improving metabolism, cholesterol levels, causing weight loss etc.

47. Turmeric benefits in weight loss

Turmeric has anti-obesity property- it prevents fat deposit and improves metabolic health.

Curcumin supplementation hastens the outcome of diet and exercise in weight loss. (Read – Turmeric & weight loss)

48. It reduces cholesterol levels

High dose curcumin supplementation reduces cholesterol levels in 12 weeks.

Curcumin is found to reduce inflammation in obesity and metabolic syndrome. (Read – 5 Ways turmeric helps in tackling high cholesterol)

49. It is an anti-diabetic agent

Turmeric and curcumin work as anti-diabetic agents by reducing blood glucose levels, stimulating insulin secretion and promoting pancreas function.

It also benefits in other complications in diabetes. (Read – Turmeric : Your Miracle Weapon Against Diabetes)

50. It reverses prediabetes

A clinical trial was conducted where 240 individuals with prediabetes were treated with curcumin for 9 months. The dose was 6 capsules of 250mg per day.

After 9 months 16.4% of individuals in placebo group developed diabetes while none in the curcumin group developed diabetes.

Curcumin improved blood sugar control, insulin sensitivity and pancreas related beta cell function. (Read – Turmeric for prediabetes)

51. It lowers blood pressure

Research shows that curcumin and its derivatives have vasorelaxant property or ability to relax blood vessels which reduces resistance to blood flow and hence reduces hypertension.

(Read – Turmeric for hypertension)

Turmeric for Endocrine System and Hormonal Disorders

Limited research has investigated the role of turmeric and curcumin in hormone related diseases and turmeric shows therapeutic potential in these disorders.

52. It benefits thyroid health

Use of turmeric in diet is associated with reduced occurrence of goitre. Curcumin is beneficial in reducing inflammation in thyroiditis.

Turmeric is found to be beneficial in reducing oxidative stress occurring in hyperthyroidism. (Read – Turmeric for goitre, Can turmeric help in thyroid disorders)

53. It benefits in hirsutism

Hirsutism or excessive facial hair occurs as a result of hormonal imbalances. Traditionally turmeric is used as a home remedy for hirsutism as its topical application helps lighten facial hair and reduce the growth.

Additionally taking turmeric orally can help in easing out hormonal imbalances causing hirsutism. (Read – Turmeric for hirsutism)

Turmeric for Cardiovascular System & Heart Diseases

Turmeric is great for heart health which makes it one of the most important reasons to include it in your diet daily.

54. It offers cardioprotection

Curcumin has a cardioprotective effect. It scavenges the free radical species and oxygen free radicals that worsen cardiac damage.

Curcumin is effective in treatment of myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy and arrhythmia. (Read – How Turmeric benefits your heart)

55. It reduces incidence of heart attacks

High dose supplementation of curcuminoids is found to reduce incidence of heart attacks after surgery.(Read –Curcumin reduces incidence of in-hospital heart attacks)

56. It helps in atherosclerosis

Dietary curcumin exerts antiatherogenic effect and helps in reducing atherosclerotic lesions by virtue of its anti-inflammatory property.

Long term curcumin treatment reduces cholesterol level and suppresses early atherosclerotic lesions. (Read – 9 ways turmeric Can help in Atherosclerosis)

57. It benefits in thrombosis

Thrombosis is formation of clot in the blood vessels which blocks blood flow and can develop into a serious condition.

Curcumin’s anti-platelet activity benefits in thrombosis and helps maintain anti-coagulant status. (Read – How Turmeric Can help In Thrombosis)

Turmeric for Healthy Reproductive System

Turmeric benefits both male and female reproductive system in various ways. (Read – Turmeric for Female Health, Turmeric for Male health)

58. It reduces symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome

Curcumin by virtue of its anti-inflammatory property helps with the pain occurring in PMS and also modulated brain chemicals and thus alleviated mood changes and depression. (Read – 8 ways Turmeric benefits in Menstruation)

59. Turmeric has multiple benefits in menopause

Turmeric is a phytoestrogen- a plant source of estrogen, a female hormone.

Turmeric’s painkiller, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties benefit in menopause in several ways. (Read – 11 ways turmeric benefits in menopause)

60. It helps in treatment of endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

Research shows that curcumin is an anti-endometrotic agent and regulates hormones and enzymes in order to inhibit endometrial growth. (Read – Turmeric for endometriosis)

61. It is therapeutic in uterine fibroids

Curcumin is identified as an alternative therapy for uterine fibroids by its ability to inhibit uterine fibroid cell proliferation. (Read – How Turmeric Can Help In Uterine Fibroids)

62. It benefits in PCOS

Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory property and ability to regulate hormones is beneficial in treatment of poly cystic ovary syndrome. (Read – Turmeric for Uterine Polycystic Ovary syndrome)

63. It therapeutic in treatment of vaginitis and leucorrhoea

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial property aids in treatment of conditions like vaginitis and leucorrhoea.

Curcumin’s anti-fungal property can aid in treatment of yeast infections which cause leucorrhoea. (Read – 6 Ways Turmeric benefits in Leucorrhoea, How Turmeric benefits Female reproductive system)

64. It can help in treatment of toxicity induced male infertility

Curcumin protects against drug induced testicular toxicity.

Nicotine (Tobacco smoking) and chronic alcohol administration is proven to cause infertility and curcumin has a therapeutic effect on them. (Read – Turmeric for Male Infertility)

65. It is therapeutic in prostatitis and benign prostate enlargement

Curcumin’s anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory property benefits in prostatitis and benign prostate enlargement. (Read – Turmeric for male health)

Turmeric Benefits for Urinary System

Turmeric protects the kidney and benefits in condition like urinary infections, diabetic nephropathy etc.

66. It helps in treatment of urinary infections

Indian researchers have found that curcumin can inhibit growth of microbes causing urinary tract infections.

They proved that curcumin can increase sensitivity of these microbes to antibiotics. (Read – Turmeric for urinary tract infections, Turmeric for Urinary Disorders)

67. It protects kidney from disorders and toxicity

Curcumin’s antioxidant property is beneficial in treatment of various kidney diseases such as diabetic nephropathy, chronic renal failure, ischemia and reperfusion and kidney toxicity caused medicines such as adriamycin, gentamycin etc.

Kidney inflammation is a common symptom of acute and chronic kidney diseases.

Curcumin as an anti-inflammatory agent helps in inhibiting kidney inflammation by interfering in the activity of protein nuclear factor kappa B. (Read – Turmeric-A powerful Weapon against kidney disorders)

Turmeric Benefits for Skin

Traditionally turmeric is used to protect healthy skin and remedy skin disorders.

68. Turmeric shows potential in reducing aging of skin

Turmeric can protect skin from wrinkles and sun damage induced aging. Curcumin’s antioxidant property is found to beneficial in managing skin aging.

(Read – Stay Young With Turmeric-World’s Best Anti-Aging Agent)

69. It helps in treatment of psoriasis

Curcumin gel is found to be effective in treating psoriasis like inflammation and its therapeutic effect is similar to that of clobetasol, a steroid used to treat skin disorders. (Read – How turmeric can help in psoriasis)

70. It protects from sunburns and offers photoprotection

Curcumin is found to protect the skin from sun rays induced inflammation and is a viable sunscreen agent. (Read –Turmeric for sunburn)

71. It can soothe eczema

Curcumin is found to reduce inflammation of the skin under adverse conditions and also reduces radiation dermatitis.

Topical turmeric paste is traditionally used to reduce itching. (Read – Turmeric for eczema and itching)

72. It can help in treatment of acne

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory, wound healing and anti-microbial properties can aid in treating acne.

Curcumin inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause acne. (Read – Turmeric for acne, Turmeric for rosacea)

73. It hastens wound healing

Turmeric is traditionally used in wound healing. It speeds up the process and enables skin regeneration. (Read –Turmeric for wounds)

Turmeric for Autoimmune Conditions

Turmeric regulates immune responses which is highly beneficial in managing symptoms of autoimmune conditions.

74. It has immunomodulatory action

Curcumin has immunomodulatory effects- it can regulate immune responses. This property is extremely beneficial in autoimmune disorders.

75. It helps in treatment of lupus

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are beneficial in lupus treatment.Its immunomodulatory properties help to regulate immune responses in SLE.

Oral turmeric supplementation 500mg is found to decrease symptoms of lupus nephritis. (Read – Turmeric for lupus)

76. It ameliorates allergic reactions

Turmeric’s health benefit as anti-allergic agent is due to curcumin’s immunomodulatory property.

Based on this property curcumin finds its use in treating asthma, skin allergy and food allergy.
However some individuals may be allergic to turmeric itself.

77. It is therapeutic in ulcerative colitis

It is proven to be effective as as a maintenance therapy for ulcerative colitis and can induce remission. (Read –Turmeric for ulcerative colitis)

Turmeric Helps Fight Infectious Conditions

Turmeric’s anti-microbial action helps in terminating infections.

78. It is a strong anti-microbial agent

Turmeric has been used traditionally to heal wounds because of it’s antiseptic property. Curcumin inhibits the growth of bacteria, viruses and fungi.

Curcumin acts against viral infections like influenza, HIV, HPV Hepatitis C etc. (Read – Turmeric for Fungal infections, How Turmeric fights 7 serious viral infections)

79. It benefits in HIV in multiple ways

Curcumin is one of the natural lead compounds recommended for treatment of HIV infection. It inhibits the replication of HIV virus in multiple ways.

Additionally turmeric holds various health benefits that help fight the virus from attacking different systems of the body. (Read – 10 Therapeutic properties of turmeric in HIV/AIDS)

80. It prevents HPV from progressing to cancer

Curcumin inhibits HPV and clears the infection. It also prevents HPV infection from progressing into cancer. (Read –Turmeric for HPV)

81. It is therapeutic in herpes

Curcumin inhibits the replication of HSV-1. Turmeric’s wound healing properties can help in treating warts and sores occurring in herpes. (Read – Turmeric for herpes)

82. It can help in treatment of influenza

Very low concentrations of curcumin are required to deactivate influenza virus. Curcuminoids display anti-viral activity against H1N1 and drug resistant H1N1 strain.

Additionally turmeric aids as an immune booster and relieves cough and cold in influenza treatment. (Read – Turmeric for influenza)

83. It is anti-Candida agent

Curcumin has anti-fungal activity against 14 strains of Candida. These findings are beneficial in treatment of Candidiasis, leucorrhea and oral thrush. (Read – Turmeric benefits for Candida)

Turmeric for Cancer

Turmeric and its bioactive ingredient, curcumin are potent anti-cancer agents and work in multiple to prevent and treat cancer.

84. Turmeric kills cancer cells

Curcumin exerts strong anti-cancer property. It terminates the growth of cancer cells, prevents them proliferating and causes cancer cell death.

Research shows that curcumin manipulates 20+ biochemical targets in the body to kill cancer cells. (Read – Turmeric for Cancer, Turmeric/Curcumin Dosage for Cancer: A Scientific Plan, How Turmeric Redesigns Cancer Cell Mortality?)

85. It is anti-angiogenic agent

Angiogenesis is development of new blood vessels and this is not beneficial in terms of cancer.

Curcumin inhibits the activity of proteins that help in blood vessel formation and prevents migration of blood vessels to tumors. (Read – Turmeric and angiogenesis)

86. It prevents metastasis

Apart from preventing growth of cancer cells, turmeric benefits by preventing metastasis or spread of cancer to other parts of the body.

Studies show that curcumin prevents metastasis in prostate cancer and thyroid cancer. (Read – 8 Ways turmeric Can Prevent Cancer Metastasis)

87. It increases chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity

Resistance to cancer therapy is one of the emerging problems in cancer treatment.

Curcumin is found to increase sensitivity of various cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents and potentiate their anti-cancer effect.

Similarly curcumin enhances the effect of radiation therapy and reduces tumor growth better than radiation alone. (Read – How Turmeric Increases Radiotherapy’s Effectiveness How Turmeric Increases Chemotherapy’s Effectiveness)

88. It protects from toxicity of cancer treatment

Unlike chemotherapeutic agents, curcumin exerts anti-cancer effect only on cancer cells and protects normal cells.

Curcumin also serves as a chemoprotector and radioprotector in cancer treatment. (Read – Turmeric: Natural Chemo/Radioprotector)

89. It has chemopreventive potential

Turmeric benefits in cancer by preventing cancer in the first place. Curcumin is found to exert chemopreventive potential in oral malignant lesions, breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer.

90. Topical application of turmeric benefits in cancer

Turmeric and curcumin applied topically reduces itching, smell, size and pain in cancer lesions. (Read – Topical turmeric for cancer)

91. Turmeric benefits in 50+ types of cancer

Experimental and clinical studies demonstrate that curcumin can benefit in 56 types of cancer.

(Read – Turmeric and Lung Cancer, Turmeric and Skin Cancer, How Turmeric Can Help In Cervical Cancer, Turmeric and Brain Cancer)

Turmeric Promotes Healthy Aging

Turmeric can protect the body from developing age associated disorders. (Read – Stay young with turmeric-the world’s best anti-ageing agent)

92. It protects heart function from ageing related changes

Research shows that curcumin protects from age associated stiffening of blood vessels. Curcumin consumption is as good as exercise in improving blood vessel function.

93. It protects from age related bone loss

Curcumin balances the rate of bone formation and bone absorption thereby protecting from loss of bone mass. It also protects post menopausal bone loss.

94. It protects brain from age related changes and boosts memory

Curcumin protects the brain from age related cerebrovascular (blood flow in brain) function and also boosts mood and memory.

Its neuroprotective activity also reduces the chances of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

95. Turmeric boosts immunity and promotes longevity

Curcumin’s antioxidant property and ability to regulate aging associated genes can help promote longevity and reduce occurrence of age related disorders.

Turmeric also boosts immunity to protect from infections.

Turmeric & Nutrition

Simply adding to turmeric to your food increases the nutritional quotient and also protects you from disease risks due to cooking food at high temperatures. (Read How Cooking With Turmeric Protects Your Food and Makes it Healthier)

96. It reduces oxidation of cooking oils

Cooking with oils at high temperatures leads to oxidation of oils which forms compounds that on long term could lead to cancer and fibrosis.

Cooking fried foods after dipping them in turmeric marination helps reduce oxidation of cooking oils.

97. It reduces oxidation of meat items and protects from carcinogens

Dietary turmeric reduces the risk of cancer.

Cooking meat items with turmeric and black pepper reduces oxidation of the meat, thereby reducing formation of carcinogens (cancer causing agents) and reducing the risk of developing diseases by consuming meat cooked at high temperatures. (Read – Does cooking turmeric and black pepper reduce their health benefits?)

98. It protects from food pathogens

Research shows that turmeric in diet can actually protect the gut from inflammation and invasion of bacteria present in food. (Read – Dietary Curcumin Protects Gut From Food Borne Bacteria)

Turmeric vs. Conventional Medications

Turmeric’s multi-action mechanism and safety profile makes it a viable alternative and add-on therapy versus many conventional drugs.

99. It is better than steroids

One of the best health benefits of turmeric is the lack of side effects in comparison to steroids despite of similar pharmacological action. Curcumin is as effective as steroids in managing chronic anterior uveitis.

Curcumin can be an alternative to steroids in treating apthous ulcers. (Read – Why Turmeric Beats Many Steroidal Medications Hands Down)

100. It protects from side effects of drugs

Apart from its multi-action phenomenon in most conditions, turmeric is preferred over conventional medications because it does not cause side effects and also reduces the side effects of other medications.

It protects from gastric side effects of painkillers, it protects liver and kidney function from toxicity of various drugs and also protects the reproductive system from drug induced toxicity. (Read – How Turmeric Saves you from Drug induced side effects)

Turmeric Dosage For Health Benefits

Simply including turmeric in diet makes a lot of difference to your health. 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder can be included daily in diet. You can find turmeric recipes here.

Golden Paste is one of the most effective ways to include turmeric in diet. It is a combination of turmeric with black pepper and oil that improves the absorption of curcumin in the body. You can make Golden Paste from fresh turmeric roots too.

Start with low doses of Golden Paste say 1/4 to 1/2 tsp per day and follow for a week. If no side effects such as gastric discomfort are observed then increase the dose gradually per week. The suggested dose is 1-2 tsp Golden Paste 2-3 times a day (precisely 1 tsp 3 times a day).

Turmeric Milk and Turmeric Tea are also some delicious ways of taking turmeric. If opting for a good turmeric brand please check our recommendations on Organic Turmeric Brands.

If opting for turmeric supplements consult a health practitioner prior.

Precautions

Turmeric in dietary quantities does not pose any risk. Doses up to 8g have found to be safe but high doses can cause gastric side effects in real life. Avoid taking turmeric on an empty stomach. (Does Turmeric cause acid reflux?)

Turmeric supplements should be opted for only after consulting a doctor. In conditions like gout or if you are at high risk of developing kidney stones it is advisable to opt for curcumin supplements because turmeric is moderately high in oxalates. ( Read Is Turmeric safe in gout? Does turmeric cause kidney stones?)

Turmeric supplements should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation. Discontinue use of turmeric supplements 2 weeks prior to surgery. Avoid supplements if you are suffering from bile duct obstruction. (Can you take turmeric in gallstones?)

When on blood thinners, it is safe to occasionally introduce turmeric in diet and take in small doses in diet but do not use curcumin supplements. In such a condition it is best to discuss this with your doctor.

Curcumin in turmeric interferes in drug metabolism and hence must not be taken concomitantly with any medication. A 3-4 hour gap must be maintained.

Conclusion

Now that you know about 100 health benefits of turmeric for general health as well as for particular conditions, you would definitely start with your daily turmeric dose.

 

Tumeric , ہلدی ، زردچوب

ماہیت ۔
ایک نبات کی جڑ ہے اس نبات کی شاخ تقریباًدو گز لمبی ہوتی ہے۔شاخ کے آخر میں زرد رنگ کے پھولوں کا خوشہ قریباًدس باری انگل لمبالگتاہے۔
مقام پیدائش ۔ پاکستان انڈیا چین وغیرہ ۔
مزاج ۔ گرم خشک۔درجہ سوم ۔
افعال ۔ مخرج بلغم ،مفتح عروق مجفف قروح ،قاتل کرم شکم محلل مسکن مصفیٰ خون جالی و محسن لون ۔
استعمال اندرونی۔
مخرج بلغم ہونے کی باعث سرفہ اور ضیق النفس بلغمی میں مستعمل ہے مصفیٰ خون ہونے کی وجہ سے امراض جلدیہ میں بطورسفوف و نقوع استعمال کراتے ہیں ۔مفتح عروق ہونے کے باعث یرقان سدی اوراستسقاء میں مفیدہے۔ضربہ و سقطہ میں نیم بریان کرکے سفوف بناکر دودھ کے ہمراہ کھلاتے ہیں نفث الدم اور تپ کہنہ میں مستعمل و مفیدہے ۔مکو کے جوشاندے میں ہلدی کا سفوف ملاکر یرقان میں استعمال کراتے ہیں یہ ہر قسم کے سالن کو خوش رنگ اور خوش ذائقہ بنانے کیلئے ایک معروف چیز ہے۔
استعمال بیرونی ۔
ہلدی اور تلوں کی کھلی پیس کر لیپ کرنے سے مکڑی کے کاٹنے کا زہردور ہوجاتاہے۔اور تلوں کے تیل میں پکاکر ضربہ و سقط میں مقام ماؤف پر گرما گرم گاڑھا لیپ کرتے ہیں ہلدی اور چونے کو گھوٹ کرلیپ کرنابھی چوٹ لگنے اور مرچ آنے کیلئے مفیدہے۔رمد میں ململ کا پرانا دھلاہوا کپڑا ہلدی کے جوشاندے حصہ ہلدی بیس حصہ پانی میں رنگ کے آنکھوں پرپھیرتے ہیں بند زکام اورنزلہ میں ہلدی کو سفوف دہکتے ہوئے کوئلوں پر ڈال کر دھونی دیتے ہیں اس سے ناک کھل کر رطوبت بہنے لگتی ہے۔یہی دھونی لینے کے بعد دو تین گھنٹے تک پانی نہ پئیں۔یہی دھونی اختناق الرحم کے دورہ کو بھی دفع کرتی ہے۔یہ دھونی رات کو سوتے وقت لینی چاہیے اور دھونی لینے کے بعد دوتین گھنٹے تک پانی نہ پینا چاہیے ۔
جالی ہونے کی وجہ سے ناخونہ وغیرہ امراض چشم میں ہلدی کو آگ میں بھلبھلاکر اس کے ہم وزن پھٹکری بریاں ملاکر بطور سرمہ آنکھوں میں لگاتے ہیں ہلدی کا سفوف گہیوں آٹا ہموزن گائے کے کچے دودھ میں ملاکر چہرے پر بطور ابٹن ملتے ہیں یہ نہ صرف منہ کو صاف کرتاہے بلکہ داغوں اور چھائیوں کو دور کرتاہے اس سے چہرے پر ایک ہلکی زعفرانی جھلک دکھائی دیتی ہی۔ہلدی کے ابٹن کا مقابلہ کوئی فیس پوڈر یاکریم نہیں کرتاہے۔
فوائد خاص ۔ امراض جگر۔خارجاًچوٹ کیلئے ۔
بدل ۔ مجیٹھ
مضر۔ دل کیلئے ۔
مصلح ۔ عرق لیموں ترنج ۔
مقدارخوراک ۔ ایک سے تین گرام ۔