Turmeric and it’s Amazing Health Benefits: : A Comprehensive Guide

Turmeric

Turmeric, the golden spice, has been hailed for centuries in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This detailed guide explores turmeric’s impressive range of health benefits. Discover how curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, helps combat inflammation, supports brain health, and can even lower your risk of heart disease. We also dive into how turmeric can improve skin health, alleviate pain from conditions like arthritis, and potentially ward off certain cancers.

Find out how to incorporate more turmeric into your diet and learn about the optimal dosages for therapeutic effects, along with tips on enhancing its bioavailability with other natural ingredients.

 

Introduction

Welcome to a journey of discovery about the wonders of turmeric, a spice that’s not only a quintessential ingredient in many global cuisines but has also been a staple in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Throughout this exploration, we’ll delve into the remarkable health benefits that this vibrant yellow-orange spice can offer.

Turmeric, hailing from the ginger family, is commonly recognised for its strong, earthy flavour and is crucial in curries and other savoury dishes. Beyond the kitchen, it is revered for its medicinal properties in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. The health benefits of turmeric range from boosting your immune system to maintaining heart health and potentially assisting in the fight against life-threatening diseases.

 

Nutritional Profile of Turmeric Health Benefits

Turmeric is more than just a flavourful spice; it’s packed with numerous essential nutrients. It’s a decent source of dietary fibre and has abundant vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium, vitamin C, and magnesium. Its vibrant yellow colour is due to curcumin, a bioactive compound that holds most of the health benefits associated with turmeric.

Curcumin, a powerful antioxidant, is truly the star when it comes to the benefits of turmeric. It’s renowned for its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to boost the body’s antioxidant enzymes. However, curcumin only comprises about 3% of turmeric by weight, and its natural absorption in the body is quite poor. Despite this, its potency, even in small amounts, is remarkable and has been the focus of considerable scientific research.

Stay tuned as we explore how these elements of turmeric can positively impact your health and why it deserves to be more than just an ingredient in your spice cabinet.

 

 

Turmeric and the Immune System

The power of turmeric to strengthen the immune system is one of its most commendable properties. The curcumin in turmeric stimulates the body’s immune response by activating various immune cells, like T-cells, B-cells, and macrophages, along with enhancing the body’s antibody responses. This heightened state of immune alertness helps in the effective elimination of pathogens that could harm your body.

Several research studies have illuminated the immune-boosting potential of turmeric. A study in the Journal of Clinical Immunology found that curcumin can modulate the activation of immune cells, providing a strong foundation for your body’s defence mechanisms. Another study from Molecular Nutrition & Food Research suggests curcumin can improve immune function and potentially help prevent diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s.

 

Turmeric’s Role in Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or illness, but chronic inflammation can lead to various health problems, including heart disease and cancer. This is where turmeric steps in, with curcumin exhibiting potent anti-inflammatory properties that match the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs without the side effects.

Curcumin targets inflammation at the molecular level. It blocks NF-kB, a molecule that travels into the nuclei of cells and triggers genes related to inflammation, thus acting on the very root of the problem. Studies published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine show that curcumin can help manage pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis patients. Furthermore, research in the Oncogene journal highlighted how curcumin is an effective alternative to anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen.

These findings underscore the importance of incorporating turmeric into our diets, not only as a food flavour enhancer but as a beneficial addition to our health regimen.

 

Turmeric and Arthritis

Arthritis, a common condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, can significantly benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. Curcumin in turmeric has been observed to reduce the markers of inflammation, thereby potentially mitigating the symptoms of this condition.

Several double-blind placebo-controlled trials have showcased the benefits of turmeric on arthritis symptoms. A controlled trial published in the Journal of Medicinal Food concluded that turmeric extract could be as effective as ibuprofen for treating knee osteoarthritis. Another clinical trial in the Phytotherapy Research journal found that the effects of curcumin extract provided long-term improvement in pain and function for patients with osteoarthritis.

 

Turmeric and Skin Health

Growing evidence shows that an active component of turmeric, curcumin, may be used medically to treat a variety of dermatologic diseases. A systematic review was conducted to examine the evidence for the use of both topical and ingested turmeric/curcumin to modulate skin health and function. Ten studies noted statistically significant improvement in skin disease severity in the turmeric/curcumin treatment groups compared with control groups. Overall, there is early evidence that the effects of curcumin products and supplements, both oral and topical, may provide therapeutic benefits for skin health.

 

Turmeric for Brain Health

Turmeric isn’t just great for physical ailments; it’s also beneficial for our brains. One of the ways turmeric promotes brain health is by boosting Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a type of growth hormone that functions in the brain. Lower levels of BDNF have been linked to brain diseases, including depression and Alzheimer’s. By increasing the levels of BDNF, curcumin could delay or even reverse many brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function.

Several studies highlight the effects of curcumin on brain health. A review in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry indicated that curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to decrease the hallmark amyloid-beta plaques associated with Alzheimer’s directly. Additionally, a study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology demonstrated that curcumin could improve memory and mood in people with mild, age-related memory loss.

 

Turmeric’s Potential Health Benefits for Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive brain disorder, continues to be a significant focus of medical research. Studies suggest that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits of turmeric may be quite beneficial in Alzheimer’s disease.

The link between inflammation, oxidative stress, and Alzheimer’s disease has long been established. Given that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, the effects of curcumin may help mitigate some of the detrimental effects of Alzheimer’s disease.

Research on turmeric and Alzheimer’s is promising. A review in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry stated that curcumin has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and directly decrease the hallmark amyloid-beta plaques associated with Alzheimer’s. Moreover, animal studies in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease have shown that curcumin can reduce oxidative damage and inflammation while also helping to clear amyloid plaques.

 

The Potential Role of Turmeric Health Benefits in Cancer Prevention

When it comes to cancer prevention and treatment, turmeric, and particularly its active compound curcumin, is being closely studied for its potential benefits. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and ability to modulate multiple cellular signalling pathways might play a crucial role in cancer prevention and treatment.

The impact of turmeric on various types of cancer has been studied both in vitro and in vivo. A review published in Cancer Letters indicates that curcumin can suppress the initiation, progression, and metastasis of various tumours. Another study in the British Journal of Cancer found that curcumin could cause apoptosis or cell death in oesophageal cancer cells, thereby inhibiting the growth of these cells.

However, it’s crucial to note that while these studies suggest the potential benefits of turmeric in cancer prevention and treatment, more research is needed, particularly involving human clinical trials. It’s essential to consult with healthcare providers before using turmeric or curcumin as an adjunct treatment for cancer.

 

 

Incorporating Turmeric into Your Diet

Turmeric isn’t just a spice for your curry; it’s a potent and beneficial addition to your diet. You can add turmeric to your dishes in various ways, and doing so can offer you the health benefits we’ve been discussing.

Including turmeric in your diet can be as easy as adding a teaspoon of turmeric root to your morning smoothie or sprinkling turmeric powder over your scrambled eggs. It adds a warm, earthy flavour to soups and stews and can even be brewed into a comforting tea. Turmeric is also an essential ingredient in golden milk, a traditional Indian drink made with milk, turmeric powder, and a sweetener.

However, it’s important to note that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is not easily absorbed by the body on its own. But pairing turmeric with black pepper can significantly increase its absorption. Piperine, a compound in black pepper, can enhance curcumin absorption by up to 2000%, according to a study published in Planta Medica.

 

Potential Side Effects of Turmeric

While turmeric is generally considered safe for most people, it’s important to be aware of its potential side effects. High doses or long-term use of turmeric can cause gastrointestinal problems such as stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhoea. Turmeric may also interfere with blood clotting, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re taking any medication that affects blood clotting or planning to undergo surgery.

The recommended dosage of turmeric for adults is up to 1.5 to 3.0 grams of the dried powdered root per day, according to the World Health Organization.

 

turmeric supplements

 

Turmeric Supplements

Turmeric supplements can be a practical alternative if you find it difficult to incorporate turmeric root or powder into your diet. These supplements offer a concentrated dose of curcumin and often include black pepper for enhanced absorption.

However, turmeric extracts can vary widely in their potency and purity, so choosing a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer is crucial. Look for products that have been third-party tested for quality and purity.

Also, remember that while turmeric and its active component, curcumin, have been linked with several health benefits, they are not a cure-all and should not replace a balanced diet and regular healthcare.

 

Conclusion

As explored in this article, turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is an incredible ingredient offering many health benefits. From its immune-boosting properties to its potential role in managing conditions like arthritis and Alzheimer’s, turmeric can be a potent addition to our diets.

While more research is needed to fully understand all of the health benefits of turmeric, the existing studies make a compelling case for including it in your daily routine, either through diet or supplementation.

However, it’s crucial to remember that while turmeric is a powerful spice, it isn’t a panacea. It should complement a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine healthcare, not replace them.

As always, speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is turmeric?

Turmeric is a perennial plant that belongs to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. The plant is native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Turmeric is primarily used as a spice, particularly in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, but it also has a rich history of medicinal use dating back nearly 4,000 years.

The most recognisable part of the turmeric plant is its bright orange-yellow turmeric root. The roots are harvested, dried, and ground into a fine turmeric powder, which is then used for various purposes. This powder is what we commonly refer to as turmeric spice, a key ingredient in curries and a variety of other dishes. It’s known for its warm, slightly bitter taste and vibrant colour.

The health benefits of turmeric are attributed to its active ingredient, curcumin, which is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. While curcumin only makes up a small percentage of turmeric, its effects on health can be powerful. This has led to its use in the treatment of a wide array of health conditions, including inflammation, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis.

 

What is turmeric good for?

Turmeric, particularly its most active compound curcumin, has many scientifically proven health benefits. Here are some areas where it has shown potential benefit:

  • Anti-Inflammatory: Curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that can match the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs without side effects. This makes it beneficial for inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
  • Antioxidant Capacity: Curcumin is a strong antioxidant that can neutralise free radicals due to its chemical structure. Moreover, it boosts the activity of the body’s own antioxidant enzymes.
  • Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Boost: Curcumin can increase brain levels of BDNF, a type of growth hormone that functions in your brain. This could potentially lead to delayed brain-related diseases and improved memory.
  • Heart Disease Prevention: Curcumin has several benefits for heart health by improving the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of your blood vessels.
  • Potential Cancer Treatment: Studies have shown that curcumin can reduce angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels in tumours), metastasis (spread of cancer) and contribute to the death of cancerous cells. However, more research is needed in this area.
  • Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention: Inflammation and oxidative damage are contributors to Alzheimer’s disease, and curcumin has beneficial effects on both.
  • Arthritis Treatment: Arthritis is a common disorder characterised by joint inflammation. Many studies show that curcumin can help treat symptoms of arthritis and is, in some cases, more effective than anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Depression Management: A study of 60 people with depression showed that curcumin was as effective as the antidepressant drug Prozac in alleviating the symptoms of the condition.
  • Anti-Aging Benefits: Given that oxidation and inflammation are believed to play a role in aging, curcumin has become very popular in anti-aging circles.

 

Is turmeric an antioxidant?

Turmeric is indeed a potent antioxidant. The main active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been found to have strong antioxidant properties.

Antioxidants are substances that can neutralise harmful free radicals in your body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, contributing to aging and diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Curcumin is capable of neutralising free radicals due to its chemical structure, but it also boosts your body’s own antioxidant enzymes. This two-fold action makes curcumin a very effective antioxidant.

It’s this antioxidant capability, along with anti-inflammatory properties, that underpins many of the potential health benefits of turmeric, from potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases to improving brain function and possibly offering protection against certain types of cancers.

 

Is turmeric good for high blood pressure?

Research suggests that turmeric could potentially help with high blood pressure. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has been found to improve endothelial function, or the health of the thin membrane that covers the inside of the heart and blood vessels. This membrane plays a key role in regulating blood pressure.

Lower endothelial function is associated with aging and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Thus, anything that can improve endothelial function can potentially improve your health and lower your risk of heart disease. In some studies, curcumin has been shown to have similar effects to exercise and medication in improving endothelial function.

Curcumin is also a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, which means it can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are often increased in people with high blood pressure.

It’s worth noting, however, that while these findings are promising, more extensive clinical trials are needed to fully understand the potential benefits of turmeric and curcumin in managing high blood pressure.

 

How does turmeric work?

Turmeric, renowned for its vibrant yellow-orange colour and rich flavour, contains a group of compounds called curcuminoids, of which curcumin is the most prominent and well-researched. Curcumin is a bioactive compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

When it comes to anti-inflammatory action, curcumin targets multiple steps in the inflammatory pathway at the molecular level. It blocks NF-kB, a molecule that travels into the nuclei of cells and turns on genes related to inflammation. NF-kB is believed to play a major role in many chronic diseases.

On the antioxidant front, curcumin is a potent scavenger of reactive oxygen species, which are chemically reactive molecules that can damage cells and DNA. Moreover, curcumin boosts the activity of the body’s own antioxidant enzymes, enhancing your inherent defence mechanism against oxidative damage.

 

How do you take turmeric?

Taking turmeric can be as simple as incorporating it into your regular diet or as specific as taking a dietary supplement. Here’s a quick rundown of the different ways you can consume turmeric:

  • Cooking: Turmeric powder is often used in cooking, especially in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cuisines. It’s a key ingredient in curries and can also be added to soups, stews, rice, vegetables, and even teas or smoothies for a health boost.
  • Golden Milk or Turmeric Latte: This is a popular health drink made with milk (or a non-dairy alternative), turmeric, black pepper (which enhances the absorption of curcumin), and other spices like ginger and cinnamon.
  • Turmeric Supplements: For those who want a more concentrated dose of curcumin, turmeric supplements are available. They often include piperine (black pepper extract) to enhance absorption. The recommended dose can vary, but generally, it falls between 500-2000 mg of curcuminoids per day.
  • Topical Use: Some people use turmeric topically in the form of creams, lotions, or pastes for its potential skin benefits. This is common in traditional Ayurvedic practices.

 

How much turmeric to take daily?

The appropriate dosage of turmeric can vary depending on factors such as a person’s age, health status, and overall lifestyle. Generally, for dietary turmeric as a spice in your food, there’s no specific recommended dosage, and it’s considered safe to consume in the amounts typically found in food.

However, if you’re considering taking turmeric as a supplement, the dosage will depend on the form of the supplement:

  • Cut root: This is essentially fresh turmeric that still contains the plant’s natural moisture. You can consume 1.5-3 grams of cut turmeric root per day.
  • Dried root (powder): This is turmeric whose water content has been removed. You can consume 1-3 grams per day.
  • Supplements (standardised powder): These are concentrated forms of turmeric and often contain more curcumin, the active ingredient. The commonly recommended dosage is 400-600mg, three times per day.
  • Fluid extract (1:1): This is a liquid form of the active ingredients typically mixed with vegetable glycerin, and you can take 30-90 drops per day.
  • Tincture (1:2): This form often uses alcohol as the solvent. The recommended dosage is 15-30 drops four times per day.

 

Can you take too much turmeric?

It is possible to take too much turmeric, and doing so could lead to undesirable side effects. Although turmeric is generally safe when consumed in moderation as a spice in foods, higher doses typically found in supplements can cause issues.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has determined 1.4 mg per pound (0-3 mg/kg) of body weight is an acceptable daily intake. Prolonged consumption of higher doses can lead to several side effects, including:

  • Digestive issues: High doses of turmeric can cause an upset stomach, diarrhoea, and nausea. Turmeric’s potent compounds can irritate your stomach lining, leading to digestive issues.
  • Blood Thinning: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, can act as a blood thinner, which could be dangerous for people taking anticoagulant medications, have bleeding disorders, or are about to undergo surgery.
  • Gallbladder Problems: If you have gallstones or a bile duct obstruction, turmeric can cause your condition to worsen.
  • Iron Deficiency: Some research suggests that high amounts of turmeric can prevent the absorption of iron.
  • Allergic Reactions: Some people might have allergic reactions to turmeric, like skin rash, hives, or shortness of breath.

 

What are the side effects of Turmeric?

While turmeric is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation as a spice in food, taking it in large amounts or as a supplement may cause some side effects. It’s always crucial to remember that what works for one person might not work for another. Here are some potential side effects associated with taking turmeric:

  • Gastrointestinal issues: Some people might experience stomach upset, nausea, diarrhoea, or heartburn after consuming turmeric.
  • Blood thinning: Turmeric can slow blood clotting due to its antiplatelet properties. This could potentially increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications.
  • Lower Blood Sugar: Turmeric might lower blood sugar levels, which could be a concern for individuals with diabetes or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Those taking medication for diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely if they’re also consuming turmeric.
  • Gallbladder problems: Turmeric could potentially worsen gallbladder issues, such as bile duct obstruction or gallstones.
  • Iron Deficiency: High amounts of turmeric might prevent the absorption of iron, so those with iron deficiency should use turmeric cautiously.
  • Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to turmeric, resulting in a rash, hives, or shortness of breath.

While most people can safely include turmeric as a spice in their diet, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional first if you’re considering taking a turmeric supplement or using it for medicinal purposes. They can provide guidance based on your individual health circumstances and help monitor for potential side effects.

 

What medications should not be taken with turmeric?

Turmeric is generally considered safe, but it can interact with some medications due to its potent bioactive compound, curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties. These properties can interfere with the function of certain medications. Here are some types of drugs that could potentially interact with turmeric:

  • Blood Thinners: Turmeric may strengthen the effects of blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Drugs for Gastric Acid: Turmeric can interfere with the action of medications like Omeprazole, Ranitidine, and Famotidine, reducing their effectiveness and potentially increasing stomach acid.
  • Diabetes Medication: Since turmeric can lower blood sugar levels, it could potentially enhance the blood sugar-lowering effects of diabetes medications, which could result in hypoglycemia.
  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): As turmeric itself has anti-inflammatory properties, it can boost the effect of these drugs, potentially leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): There is some preliminary research indicating that turmeric could potentially increase the risk of bleeding when taken with these types of medications, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft).
  • Chemotherapy Drugs: Turmeric might interfere with the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re currently taking medications or have underlying health conditions. Your doctor can provide personalised advice based on your health history and current medications.

 

Does turmeric thin the blood?

Yes, curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has blood-thinning properties. Studies have found that it can inhibit blood clotting to some extent, similar to the effect of drugs like aspirin and warfarin, albeit at a much milder level when consumed in dietary amounts.

This property of curcumin is usually beneficial, as it can potentially reduce the risk of blood clots and help prevent conditions like heart attacks and strokes. However, if you are already on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication, or if you have a bleeding disorder, consuming large amounts of turmeric could potentially increase your risk of bleeding.

This is why it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider before taking turmeric supplements, especially if you are due to have surgery or if you are on medication that can affect blood clotting. It’s also worth noting that the levels of curcumin in food are typically not high enough to have a significant anticoagulant effect, so consuming turmeric as a spice in your meals is usually not a concern.

 

Who should not take turmeric?

Turmeric is generally safe for most people when used in moderation. However, certain groups of people should avoid or be cautious when considering taking turmeric, especially in supplement form.

  • People with gallbladder disease: Turmeric may cause gallbladder contractions, which could be problematic for people with gallstones or a bile duct obstruction.
  • People on blood-thinning medication: Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, may enhance the effect of these medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
  • People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) or stomach ulcers: Turmeric could potentially aggravate these conditions.
  • People about to have surgery: Due to its potential to slow blood clotting, it’s recommended to stop taking high amounts of turmeric at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women: While using turmeric as a spice in food is considered safe during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding, taking medicinal amounts may not be.
  • People with iron deficiency: High amounts of turmeric can interfere with the absorption of iron.
  • People with diabetes or on anti-diabetic medication: Turmeric might lower blood sugar levels, potentially causing hypoglycemia when taken with diabetes medication.

What are the best brands of Turmeric available in the US?

Choosing the best turmeric supplement can depend on various factors such as quality, purity, and bioavailability. Here are a few brands that have been praised for their high-quality turmeric supplements:

  • Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme Extra Strength: This brand uses a full spectrum formulation of curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, for increased absorption and effectiveness.
  • Nature Made Turmeric Curcumin: Nature Made is a trusted brand known for its quality and consistency. Their turmeric capsules are no exception and come with a USP Verified Mark, indicating they meet strict quality standards.
  • Doctor’s Best High Absorption Curcumin: Doctor’s Best uses Curcumin C3 Complex, a patented form of curcumin known for its quality, and combines it with BioPerine (black pepper extract) for increased bioavailability.
  • Qunol Extra Strength Turmeric Curcumin Complex: Qunol’s water-dispersion technology helps to improve curcumin absorption, providing more benefits than standard curcumin powders.
  • NOW Foods Curcumin: NOW Foods is a reputable brand offering a high-potency 95% curcuminoid turmeric supplement.
  • Pure Encapsulations Curcumin 500 with Bioperine: This hypoallergenic turmeric supplement is free from common allergens and GMOs, making it a good choice for people with dietary sensitivities.
  • Sports Research Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex: Sports Research supplements use a patented form of curcumin called Curcumin C3 Complex and add Bioperine for better absorption.

What are the best brands of Turmeric available in the UK?

Here are a few highly-rated turmeric supplement brands available in the UK:

  • Solgar Full Spectrum Curcumin: Solgar is a highly regarded brand known for its quality supplements. Their full-spectrum curcumin supplement is designed for improved absorption and longer-lasting effects.
  • Nature’s Best Turmeric: This brand provides a high-strength turmeric supplement boasting 95% curcuminoids.
  • VitaBright Organic Turmeric with Black Pepper and Ginger: This supplement also contains black pepper for enhanced absorption and ginger for additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Healthspan Opti-Turmeric: Healthspan is a well-known UK brand, and its Opti-Turmeric capsules contain a highly absorbable form of curcumin.
  • Nutravita Turmeric Curcumin: Nutravita is a trusted UK supplement brand. Their Turmeric Curcumin capsules are free from artificial colours and flavours.
  • Pukka Herbs Wholistic Turmeric: Pukka Herbs is known for its organic and ethically sourced products. Their turmeric supplement uses a unique extraction process to retain all active compounds.

 

Resources:

Vaughn AR et al (2016). Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review and meta-analysis of the Clinical Evidence. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27213821/

Daily JW et al (2016). Efficacy of Turmeric Extracts and Curcumin for Alleviating the Symptoms of Joint Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

White CM et al (2016). Oral turmeric/curcumin effects on inflammatory markers in chronic inflammatory diseases: A systematic review and meta analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Wang Z et al (2021). Efficacy and Safety of Turmeric Extracts for the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Hewlings SJ et al (2017). Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29065496/

Heathline (2021). 10 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition

National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health (2020). Turmeric. Available at: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health

Nuffield Health (2021).  The health benefits of turmeric. Available at: https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/article

 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have specific concerns or medical conditions, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance and support.

 

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