Move over green juice, there’s a new health-boosting beverage in town: The Turmeric Latte.
If you’ve done even a little bit of browsing around the wellness corner of the internet, you’ve probably stumbled across turmeric root and its impressive nutritional profile. Although it has been consumed for thousands of years, it just recently graduated from ‘that ingredient used in curry’ to superfood du jour. And for good reason. Aside from its beautiful, golden hue that Instagrammers just can’t seem to get enough of, turmeric is an excellent source of nutrition and super versatile in terms of how it can be incorporated into the diet (liquid form is our fav). The wonder spice touts a long, wide-ranging list of health benefits, supporting everything from the heart and waistline to the skin and mood! Here are 8 truly amazing benefits of turmeric:
Turmeric provides pain relief
Turmeric has very strong anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great aid in pain relief. Whether it’s an aching head, belly or bones, turmeric can serve as an all-natural alternative to traditional over-the-counter medicines. Inflammation also plays a role in many chronic Western diseases like heart disease, Alzheimer’s, IBS and Crohn’s disease, so anything that reduces or suppresses these levels can be powerful in both their prevention and treatment.
Turmeric helps to control cholesterol
Several studies have shown turmeric to be effective in controlling cholesterol levels. This is because the super spice has the ability to reduce the amount of fat and triglycerides in the bloodstream, as well as limit the amount of dietary cholesterol that’s absorbed through the intestines.
Turmeric boosts stress-tolerance
If you’re someone who battles stress or anxiety, adaptogens should be your new best friend! These healing herbs are known to keep you calm under pressure and increase resilience to any form of pressure. Turmeric does just that, by normalizing specific physiological pathways, decreasing cortisol (the stress hormone) and elevating serotonin levels (the happy hormone).
Turmeric promotes healthy skin
Turmeric is an anti-aging powerhouse. It basically kicks free-radical butt. Its anti-inflammatory properties paired with gobs of antioxidants make it super effective at treating many skin conditions and warding off wrinkles and fine lines. Many also speak of the radiant glow that it promotes!
Turmeric helps to reduce depression
The hustle and bustle of the modern world has some of us feeling more disconnected from ourselves than ever. While there’s no substitute for family support and professional counsel, the curcumin found in turmeric has shown increasing promise as an antidepressant. With the ability to influence dopamine activity, it can uplift mood and reduce tension and anxiety.
Turmeric boosts immunity
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties also allow it to naturally supercharge the immune system. Constantly fighting to protect the body against infection and disease, our immune system plays a huge role in overall wellbeing. With the winter season upon us, there’s never been a better time to show it some love. Check our this blog article to learn more about building immunity with Turmeric.
Turmeric supports liver health
Your liver has a tough job to do. It performs over 500 functions, so it’s no wonder that it can easily become overwhelmed. Its main task is to purge the body of toxins and pollutants, and turmeric can support this cleansing process by helping the organ to continuously regenerate and function at its best.
Turmeric balances hormone levels
Turmeric has been shown to improve circulation and estrogen metabolism. This means it can also help to regulate your menstrual cycle and minimize those pesky PMS symptoms like cramps, headaches, bloating, irritability and mood swings.
If these eight remarkable health benefits aren’t convincing enough, turmeric is also just a really great source of nourishment. In fact, just one spoonful is loaded with vitamins and minerals like beta-carotene, potassium, iron and zinc. The result of daily consumption? A strong body and strong brain (and likely some yellow-stained mugs and cloths).
Ready to add this vibrant gem of a spice into your diet? Find it in our Turmeric Blend and Cacao Turmeric Blend.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19233493
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3535097/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3195121/
https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/curcumin