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Both turmeric and curcuma, have medicinal properties that provide many health benefits: neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, autoimmune and even psychological conditions. Take good note and consider including the orange root in your diet!
Turmeric and Curcuma have antioxidant properties that give us general well-being and also has scientifically proved benefits for a long list of health diseases. Ready to give a boost to your health?Here the guide of all the benefits of this key power-plant which we all should have in our diets.
Note: if used with the correct dosage, there are no proven side effects in turmeric, however, you may have an allergy reaction – so if you are prompt to have allergies make sure you check before. We always encourage you to find out with a naturopath or doctors if precautions and side effects.
Quick distinction: turmeric vs curcuma
Since this is a common question between us all, here’s a quick distinction between turmeric and curcuma.
Curcuma is the key active ingredient in turmeric and is a natural anti-inflammatory compound. Turmeric comes from the root of Curcuma longa, a flowering plant of the ginger family, and contains many substances that are beneficial for your health; but curcuminoids have the greatest health-promoting effects.
In India, turmeric is used to treat skin conditions, digestive issues and aches and pains. In fact, it’s an incredibly important plant of Ayurvedic medicine, a form of traditional healing.
There are certain differences in how specifically curcuma and turmeric help to improve a large range of health issues. Without going too much in detail, here is a general overview of curcuma and turmeric benefits’ for you to get started in the world of superfoods!
Curcuma and turmeric benefits
Brain. Boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor, linked to improving brain function and a lower risk of brain diseases. To mention the most common ones, it could support aging and fights chronic age-related illness: Parkinson’s disease as well as preventing and treating Alzheimer’s.
Digestion. Turmeric can help to maintain healthy digestive function and relief of mild digestive disturbances such as the sensation of fullness and flatulence.
Obesity. Turmeric may help to inhibit the inflammatory pathway involved in obesity, as they are associated with regulating body fat.
Liver. Turmeric protective against chronic liver damage by helping reduce harmful oxidative stress, helping to stimulate the contraction of the gallbladder, to increase the flow of bile and to support healthy liver function.
Antioxidant. Turmeric and curcuma dramatically increase the antioxidant capacity of the body. Curcuma has incredible benefits against depression.
Antifungal properties, because turmeric and curcuma can disrupt fungal cell membranes, especially if used with fungal medications.
Antibacterial, as they can reduce the growth of many disease-causing bacteria, including acne.
Diabetes. For diabetes treatment, turmeric and curcuma can improve blood sugar metabolism and potentially reduce the effects of diabetes on your body.
Heart. If you suffer from heart disease, turmeric and curcuma can reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and reduce the risk of heart disease as a result
Cancer. Prevention and (perhaps even treatment) of cancer. Though research is still in its early stages, turmeric and curcuma may reduce the activity of colon and other cancer cells
Osteoarthritis + arthritis, helping to reduce joint pain and inflammation and thus relieve its symptoms
How you can take curcuma or turmeric?
When choosing a supplement, it’s important to buy a formula that has been clinically tested and proven to be well absorbed. You can choose to take it powder and supplements, so please check with a naturopath or health shop what are the most specific benefits for your health or diseases. Or even for your enjoyment (for cooking and drinks OR even skincare products).
What makes turmeric brands’ good or more sustainable?
Look for organically harvested and produced, look for 100% natural ingredients without the use of herbicides, pesticide or chemical fertilizers (this all will also help to save the bees). Make sure there are no artificial preservatives, colorings, stabilizers or food acids added.
There are many brands you could explore, we’d appreciate if you can look bulk (zero waste) options, glass jars (repurpose or upcycle whenever possible), and if plastic, please check that it can be recycled; some businesses may even do packaging made out of recycled materials 😉
Another key factor you may want to check is if it’s responsibly sourced. Best brands should have its Sustainability Report (also known as CSR). Find certifications such as Vegan, Cruelty-free, Fair Trade or BCorp…
It all adds up: if we ask businesses to do better, at the end brands will have no choice but become better for the people + planet!
By the way, here is a full guide on how to read the labels!
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