In India, it was traditionally used for disorders of the skin, upper respiratory tract, joints, and digestive system. Today, turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression, and many others.
“Like other colorful plant-based foods, turmeric is rich in phytonutrients that may protect the body by neutralizing free radicals (pollution, sunlight) and shielding the cells from damage.” Diets rich in plant-based foods are associated with prevention of medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
When taken by mouth: Turmeric is likely safe when used short-term. Turmeric products that provide up to 8 grams of curcumin daily seem to be safe when used for up to 2 months, Also, taking up to 3 grams of turmeric daily seems to be safe when used for up to 3 months. Turmeric usually doesn't cause serious side effects.
The turmeric oil benefits consist of being rich in antioxidants. It has anti-allergic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties, making it a wonder for your skin and hair.
Turmeric is also used to treat depression, headaches, bronchitis, colds, serious pain, fatigue, lung infections, itchy skin and recovery after surgery. So, what are the Top 5 health benefits of turmeric? This powerful spice is used to fight such chronic health conditions.
According to a study conducted at the Tufts University, curcumin can actually suppress fat tissue growth. Another way in which turmeric helps in losing weight by regulating sugar levels and further preventing insulin resistance. This results in excess fat that is not retained in the body.
So, how long does it take turmeric to work? Depending on your body mass and condition, it will usually take around 4-8 weeks for you to start noticing improvements to your body and mind.
High doses of turmeric could have a blood-thinning effect; if taken on top of prescribed anticoagulants, this could increase the risk of dangerous bleeding. People with liver or bile duct problems should not take turmeric supplements, as they can increase bile production.
Generally speaking, a dose of 500 mg to 2,000 mg of turmeric is usually recommended. This is based on the dosages used in studies. Look for products that list the actual amount of curcumin in the supplement for best results. Doses of over 8 grams of curcumin per day are not recommended due to the risk of side effects.
When to consume? According to experts, turmeric water is best consumed in the morning. “Though used both in the morning or before bed at night, turmeric water serves to be the most beneficial when had empty stomach as it helps the body burn excess flab,” Chawla said.
Most people find success taking turmeric either in the morning to start their day, or at night before bed to combat inflammation from the day's activities. We also recommend that you take turmeric with a meal since curcumin absorption increases when paired with healthy fats.
The recommended daily dose for turmeric powder is about 3 grams per day, which is equivalent to a teaspoon.
Avoid using turmeric together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting. This includes angelica (dong quai), capsicum, clove, dandelion, danshen, evening primrose, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, saw palmetto, and willow.
Taking turmeric in large doses has potential risks: Mild side effects include upset stomach, acid reflux, diarrhea, dizziness, and headaches. Consuming large doses of turmeric supplements can significantly increase urinary oxalate levels, increasing the risk of kidney stone formation.
Following recent cases of use-related hepatitis in Italy, the country's Ministry of Health has banned health claims related to turmeric and curcumin supplements and updated product labeling protocols for these products.
Turmeric causes potentially severe liver injury that is typically hepatocellular, with a latency of 1 to 4 months and strong linkage to HLA-B*35:01.
Turmeric can lower your anxiety levels, so slipping this super spice into your bedtime rituals can really help you unwind whilst also helping ease any bad moods. On top of all the good sleep turmeric could bring you, it's also a natural inflammatory.
When can you expect to see results? In one study, participants reported improvements in joint discomfort after supplementing with 2 grams of turmeric daily for 6 weeks. Another study reported results after 8-12 weeks of supplementation with 1 gram of turmeric daily.
They'll Give You A Boost Without Caffeine
A fresh turmeric shot contains the right amount of anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. This means that you are detoxing before breakfast, making it easier for your system to digest your breakfast while giving you an instant energy boost.
Turmeric Spice
If you enjoy Indian and exotic dishes, you may wish to limit your turmeric spice intake. The bold deep yellow pigments in this spice can turn your teeth just as yellow over time. Turmeric can also stain anything it touches, so be careful when using it.
The Benefits of Turmeric for Hair Growth
By incorporating turmeric into your haircare regime, not only could you promote scalp health, but turmeric's proposed antioxidant properties could help your hair to grow longer and stronger too.