Health Benefits of Turmeric

Health Conditions That May Benefit From Turmeric

Arthritis

Arthritis, inflammation of the joints, is a condition that has affected humans since the beginning of time. Worldwide, over 500 million are affected — the most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (~95%) and rheumatoid arthritis (~5%). Before the advent of modern pharmaceuticals, those who were afflicted did not simply suffer endlessly from pain, but rather, they utilized nature’s herbs and organic foods to help minimize aches and discomforts. Today, as more people become concerned about the side effects of prescription drugs, many are seeking safer alternatives.

A July 2021 study evaluated turmeric versus placebo for arthritis discomfort. The researchers concluded that turmeric did a better job in controlling pain while improving function more effectively than placebo in those with knee arthritis. Another study from the same year also specifically evaluated knee arthritis and showed that turmeric reduced inflammation by suppressing inflammatory chemicals.

Studies also show turmeric to be helpful in reducing pain for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.  Scientists have discovered that turmeric can reduce inflammation similarly to multiple blockbuster prescription drugs. This herb can modify NF-κB signaling and reduce pro-inflammatory, which can cause a person to have arthritis pain. These chemicals are called COX-2 and 5-LOX.

In addition to curcumin supplements being helpful for arthritis pain, learn more about other natural treatments of arthritis.

Oxidation

Oxidative damage is the main process by which our bodies age and ultimately become damaged. Examples of oxidation include the browning of an air-exposed apple or banana left on the kitchen counter. The rusting of a steel bumper, when exposed to the elements, is also an instance of oxidation. Oxidative damage can be caused by the sun, air, sugar, processed foods, and toxic chemicals. Fruits and vegetables, which are highly concentrated with phytochemicals (plant chemicals), provide our bodies with protective antioxidants.

Turmeric is also a potent antioxidant, either when consumed as a spice or taken as a curcumin supplement. Oxidative damage is commonly believed to play a causative role in cancer and heart disease. According to a 2016 report in the journal Diseases, turmeric can help prevent oxidation.

Asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory condition among children and adults. It is defined as a chronic and reversible obstructive airway disease which normally responds to albuterol medication therapy. Fortunately, if the cause is determined, and the condition is correctly diagnosed, asthma can be treated successfully. Despite our ability to control asthma symptoms, preventing attacks is also very important. Curcumin appears to play an important role.

A 2010 study demonstrated improved management of bronchial asthma with the use of turmeric when consumed with Boswellia serrata and licorice root. The results showed greater prevention of excessive swelling and mucous production associated with asthma, reducing inflammation, and increasing antioxidant properties.

A 2014 study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research also concluded that turmeric, when taken orally, could help improve lung function in those with asthma.

Further, a 2019 study showed that turmeric could not only help reduce inflammation in the airways but also reduce mucous secretion. Curcumin’s potential benefit in reducing lung inflammation in treating those with asthma was also demonstrated in a 2018 study.

Depression

Depressive disorder affects millions of people worldwide. The causes can be complex, stemming from a combination of social stresses and biochemical imbalance. Symptoms include a desire to sleep, decreased interest in activities, feelings of guilt, trouble concentrating, moving slowly, and sometimes, thoughts of self-harm. When present, seeking the assistance of a healthcare professional is crucial.

Many look for natural alternatives to help with depression. A 2008 study showed that turmeric could help increase both serotonin and dopamine levels, providing the mechanism by which it could be helpful in the treatment of depression. In this study, they also utilized piperine, which provided a synergistic effect. A 2014 study showed that turmeric was effective and safe in treating major depression in those without suicidal ideations.

A meta-analysis study from 2020 screened 930 studies and included nine in their final analysis.  The researchers observed that curcumin was generally well-tolerated and, if added to standard care, might improve depressive and anxiety symptoms in those with depression. However, they warned that due to their small sample size, their results should be “cautiously interpreted.”

Memory Loss

There are many types of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease, a brain disorder that generally affects older adults, is the most common. Memory loss, confusion, and difficulty understanding common interactions are some of the most prevalent symptoms of this progressive and devastating condition.

When it comes to brain health, Dr. Dale Bredesen of the University of California, Los Angeles and author of the 2017 book The End of Alzheimer’s considers turmeric an important part of improving symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Many scientific studies show proof of its usefulness. One study showed that turmeric may play a role in decreasing amyloid plaque buildup in the brain, the accumulation of which is believed to be the cause of Alzheimer’s disease.

Another study from 2017 in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease concluded that turmeric could play an important role in preventing memory loss. There is much excitement surrounding turmeric’s possible role in preventing mild cognitive impairment and, ultimately, Alzheimer’s disease. It should be considered an essential supplement for anyone wanting to optimize memory.

A 2018 study separated 40 people without dementia into two groups. Twenty were given turmeric while the other 20 were given a placebo supplement. The subjects were followed for 18 months with researchers concluding that turmeric improved memory in those with no cognitive impairment. The participants then underwent a brain scan (FDDNP-PET), which further showed turmeric also reduced the deposition of the proteins in the brain (amyloid and tau) that are associated with dementia.

Other conditions that turmeric may help with, according to studies include:

• Ulcerative colitis (colon inflammation)
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Stomach ulcers caused by the h. pylori bacteria
• Indigestion
• Prevention of gallstones
• Atherosclerosis and heart disease
• Removing mercury from the body

Turmeric and Drug Interactions

Because of the potential to interact with certain medications, please speak with your doctor first to determine if the consumption of turmeric or its derivative curcumin is the right choice for you. The following are possible drug interactions:

• Turmeric and diabetes medications may result in an increased risk of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia. While turmeric may potentially reduce the need for diabetic medications, do not stop diabetic medications without first consulting with your physician.
• Turmeric and blood thinners may interact. When turmeric and drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix) or warfarin (Coumadin) are combined, there may be a small increased risk for bleeding. Consult with your doctor prior to taking them together.