Key Health Benefits

Turmeric has a long and rich history as a medicinal root but it is only in 1971 that it was first identified for its powerful anti-inflammatory capacity². Until recently, much of turmeric’s medicinal benefits have been attributed to one of its constituents: curcumin. Curcumin has demonstrated excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, curcumin is a compound that is difficult to absorb, which limits its efficacy when taken on its own. Recent findings indicate that there are many other compounds in turmeric that also provide health benefits and that improve the absorption of curcumin^3,4. Taking the whole root is proving to be the better way to go.

It is currently used in many chronic inflammatory disorders to help reduce the inflammatory process and to alleviate pain. These include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid-arthritis, gastritis, asthma, psoriasis, and ulcerative conditions. It also has immune modulating properties, keeping the immune system working in balance which helps these inflammatory conditions as well. Turmeric has also been greatly studied for its effect on the liver. It has been shown to be protective against liver damage², improve bile production³, and support liver detoxification. Additional benefits include its effect on cholesterol. It can lower elevated cholesterol levels⁴ as well as reduce cholesterol oxidation⁵, providing overall cardiovascular protection. It also has strong antioxidant capacity and some antimicrobial activity.