Scientific Name: Curcuma longa, Curcuma domestica
Common Name: Indian saffron, Curcumin, Jiang Huang
Family: Zingiberaceae (Ginger)
Turmeric, a relative of ginger, is a perennial plant with enlarged, fleshy roots and leaves extending upward from its root's erect, thick stems (1). Turmeric originated in India and was later cultivated in China and is recognized as a vivid yellow-orange spice often used in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine (2,3). The active (and most studied) constituent of turmeric is curcuminoids, which have robust anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that provide a domino effect of benefits. Unfortunately, the pharmaceutical industry has isolated and even synthesized curcuminoids. Synthesized curcuminoids, known as curcumin or sCUR, are made from petroleum-based materials (4,5). Synthesization aside, isolating curcuminoids and ignoring the fact that the entire plant's constituent makeup has benefits is an allopathic way of thinking. We cannot look at just one constituent of a plant, especially when it comprises dozens responsible for its overall benefits.
Benefits of Turmeric
Antioxidant Properties
Antioxidants can help fight damage from harmful free radicals. The buildup of free radicals has been linked to chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Curcumin is a potent antioxidant with a chemical structure that can neutralize free radicals (9). While the chemical form of curcumin neutralizes free radicals, it also boosts the activity of your body's antioxidant enzymes and protects the body (10). I highly recommend Earthley's Turmeric + Black Pepper Capsules for these benefits. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Turmeric has compounds called curcuminoids; curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric and has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect (3). Studies have shown that curcumin matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs without the dangerous side effects (4). I highly recommend Earthley's Turmeric + Black Pepper Capsules for these benefits.
May Help Arthritis
Arthritis is a common disorder characterized by inflammation of the joints (5). Again, turmeric's central active ingredient is curcumin, which has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect (6). Research studying the effects of curcumin on arthritis noted improvements in arthritis management (7). Given this information and that studies have been conducted and found curcumin was more effective than anti-inflammatory drugs (8), curcumin is believed to be a viable option for arthritis patients. I highly recommend Earthley's Pain Potion for these benefits.
May Be Good for Heart Health
Unfortunately, heart disease is the world's number 1 cause of death (16). Due to the incredibly complex determinants of heart disease and various possible contributions, it's hard to pinpoint an exact way to prevent it. Still, you can at least take steps to lower your overall risk. One study found that curcumin may help reverse many steps in the heart disease process (17). Studies propose that curcumin can improve endothelial function (18). Evidence indicates that endothelial dysfunction is associated with cardiovascular events (19). One study uncovered that curcumin is as effective as Atorvastatin (Lipitor), a statin (20). I highly recommend Earthley's Healthy Heart for these benefits.
May Improve Brain Function & Lower the Risk of Brain Diseases
Some of the most common brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's and depression, have been linked to a decreased level of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (11,12). Brain-derived neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a growth hormone that functions in your brain (13). Curcumin has exhibited the ability to be able to increase brain levels of BDNF (14). Increased brain levels of BDNF mean that it may be effective in delaying the progression and potentially even reversing brain disease and improving brain function (15). I highly recommend Earthley's Turmeric + Black Pepper Capsules for these benefits.
Anti-Cancer Properties
⚠️ Warning: The Holistic Hipppie is not a functional medicine practitioner. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or replace medical guidance. The Holistic Hipppie assumes no liability for the application of the information discussed.
Contraindications & Interactions
As per trusted herbalist Richard Whelan, turmeric is an extremely safe herb that may be used by the very young or elderly and by pregnant women (it is given to alleviate nausea during pregnancy in Ayurvedic medicine) and while breastfeeding (it is used in Fiji to encourage the production of milk). However, it is recommended not to use very high doses (over 10 grams daily) if taking anti-coagulant or antiplatelet medicines (21).
Products Recommended with Turmeric Ingredients
Earthley's Calm and Clarity can help promote a calm mood and mental clarity with Calm and Clarity! Those of us who could use a little help cutting through the brain fog and focusing on a task can benefit from this herbal extract.
Earthley's Candida Cleanse helps to fight yeast and candida overgrowth to restore gut health. Made with 100% natural ingredients, this herbal tincture is safe and effective in bringing the relief you’ve been looking for.
Earthley's Cold Sore Serum is infused with antiviral herbs in a soothing oil base to fight cold sores, reduce inflammation and pain, and promote healing. Earthley took cucumber seed oil (great for mature or damaged skin), which absorbs easily without clogging pores. We infused it with key anti-viral herbs (lemon balm, elder flowers, echinacea, and turmeric) to heal cold sores quickly and naturally.
Earthley's Digest Ease promotes healthy digestion and helps with leaky gut symptoms. It can be used regularly to promote overall gut health and wellness or occasionally to relieve mild stomach upset. This combination of herbs helps to coat an irritated gut, relieve an overactive gut, reduce inflammation, and boost your immune system. It can help soothe IBS, food allergies, elimination issues, gas, and more. It’s a necessary part of your natural remedy cabinet!
Earthley's DIY Elderberry Kit (Cough & Cold) makes it easier than ever! No need to overbuy herbs or spend time researching for the best recipe. Simply boil in water and add honey, syrup, or a sweetener of your choice.
Earthley's Healthy Heart is an herbal supplement that supports the heart and a proper immune response. This tincture is rich in anti-inflammatory properties and vitamin C. It can help to lower blood sugar and blood pressure, increase insulin activity, and can even help with symptoms of type 2 diabetes.
Earthley's Immunity Soup helps support your immune system while enjoying a yummy soup, stock, or whatever meal you’d like! Simply simmer, strain, and add to your recipe for added flavor and nutrients.
Earthley's Liver Love promotes liver health by supporting detox and proper function. The liver is a critical, hard-working organ and this herbal tincture provides 100% natural support. Enjoy relief from bloating, gas, and other liver-related pain.
Earthley's Nourish Him Naturally was curated with a man’s specific needs in mind! We use herbs to support heart health, prostate health, and energy levels to make this vitamin powerhouse. You could see an improvement in overall health and wellness through this natural and organic herbal supplement!
Earthley's Pain Potion is an herbal tincture that helps to bring relief from headaches and other body pains. We combine five herbs to extract their anti-inflammatory, cooling, and soothing properties to help relax muscles and ease the pain. Skip the OTC pills and their dangerous side effects and opt for the natural help that Pain Potion can provide.
Earthley's Postpartum Balance was created especially for mamas to help break down no-longer-needed pregnancy hormones, support hormone balance, and helps to lessen bleeding for an easier fourth trimester.
Earthley's Sinus Saver is an herbal tincture that provides natural support during allergy season and beyond! Enjoy relief from sneezes, sniffles, sinus pressure, watery eyes, and other annoying allergy symptoms. Sinus Saver uses the power of herbs to help clear the body of excess histamines and calm allergic reactions.
Earthley's Spice Tea is perfect for cinnamon and spice lovers. This tea combines green rooibos, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric to create a warm, tasty blend. Rich in antioxidants, this tea has cognition-enhancing abilities and also anti-nausea effects, which are great for soothing an upset tummy.
Earthley's Turmeric + Black Pepper Capsules have health-supporting properties for the body, inside and out. It’s high in anti-inflammatory properties, so it is a wonderful way to naturally relieve joint and muscle pain. It can even help to relieve skin issues like acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis.
Earthley's UT Relief promotes urinary tract health and relieves symptoms of UTIs. Take it daily as a preventative if you have frequent UTIs or at the first signs of one to reduce pain and other symptoms naturally.
MaryRuth’s Organic Turmeric Gold Liquid Drops blend turmeric, black pepper seed, cassia cinnamon bark, and more for its immune-supporting and neuroprotective properties.
MaryRuth’s Probiotic Turmeric+ is a blend of turmeric, and three probiotic strains were formulated to support the gastrointestinal tract. Promotes gut health in various ways, including modulating the microbiome and supporting immune function.
MaryRuth’s Turmeric Gummies support your body with phytonutrient curcumin. Curcumin may support joint health and function by supporting a healthy inflammatory response, helping maintain normal cartilage in joints. Benefit from turmeric’s naturally occurring curcuminoids with these tasty peach, mango, and lemon gummies.
What's your favorite way to use turmeric?
