Curcumin is the main derivative of turmeric and one of the major ingredients in curry powder. It has a spicy flavor a little like a hot pepper, but its smell much resembles that of mustard. This spice has more than culinary uses, however. In fact, throughout Asia, it is used to treat numerous health conditions, and several modern studies have confirmed it to have many medical benefits. The most notable among these shall be looked at briefly below.
- Studies have shown that curcumin helps alleviate joint pain and inflammations, sometimes even as effectively as anti-inflammatory drugs.
- There is evidence that this natural herb can fight cancer stem cells and that it can help combat certain types of cancer cells, which are resistant to drugs. Cancer of the skin, prostate, colon, breast, throat, mouth, and liver were especially affected.
- Obesity is hindered since this spice helps to suppress the development of certain fatty tissues.
- Kidney and liver health is promoted.
- Curcumin aids in detoxifying your body of heavy metals, free radicals, and other harmful contaminants.
- There is evidence that this remedy can help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes.
- Blood circulation is improved, and the risk of blood clotting is reduced.
- General heart health is promoted, and the risk of LDL cholesterol build-up is lessened.
While further research is needed and specific results will vary from person to person, it it clear that curcumin has substantial and wide-ranging health benefits. Many times, the elements our bodies need to remain healthy and strong are provided in the very foods that we eat. Spices are well-loved for the improved taste that they bring to our food, but we often get more than we bargained for. Indeed, as research into herbal remedies presses on, it is often easy to confuse the spice rack with the medicine cabinet.
As a final note, I will mention a few simple but delicious ways you can incorporate curcumin into your diet.
- Add turmeric or curry powder to your rice. You can stir it in right after it has finished cooking but while it is still hot.
- Dry rub chicken or beef with turmeric before grilling or baking.
- Mix turmeric into your barbecue or other favorite sauce. It will add a little extra spice to it, and you will enjoy the health benefits along with the “taste benefits.”
- Add a little turmeric to your egg or potato salad. It will also be a good addition to tuna fish salad.
If you can, learn a few authentic Indian recipes. However, you can also simply find a good Indian restaurant and order a curry-heavy dish. By incorporating turmeric and/or curry powder into your regular diet, you will get a good dose of curcumin, which will help you to lead a healthier life.
Related reading from author: Great Antibacterial and Antiviral Herbs and How to Use Them
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