10 Benefits of Turmeric, How to Take it and its Effects on the Body

Turmeric is a medicinal plant that has a long, deep yellow root that is transformed into powder and is used as a condiment in several countries and as a food coloring, especially in India. This plant is also known as saffron root or as a stick.

In addition to being used very often in the culinary, turmeric can also be used as a natural remedy to improve gastrointestinal problems, fever, treat colds and even reduce high cholesterol.

Turmeric is a plant with long, bright leaves with a height of up to 1 meter and has long orange or deep yellow roots. An interesting fact is that it is one of the ingredients of curry, which is another seasoning widely used in Indian cuisine.
Its scientific name is  Curcuma longa and it can be bought in stores of natural products, some pharmacies and in some markets.

Turmeric Benefits

The main properties of turmeric are its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and digestive action and, therefore, this plant has several benefits for the body such as:

• Improve digestion;
• Help in weight loss;
• Fight colds and flu;
• Avoid asthma attacks;
• Detoxify the liver;
• Regulate the intestinal flora;
• Remove intestinal worms;
• Treat liver problems;
• Stimulate the immune system;

Relieve inflammation in the skin such as eczema, acne or psoriasis.
Also, turmeric can be used to lower blood cholesterol levels, inhibit clot formation and relieve premenstrual symptoms.

The active substance in turmeric is curcumin, which is being studied to treat skin wounds such as burns. For its study it is being included in gels and ointments of topical application, presenting excellent results.


How to Take Turmeric?

The most used part of turmeric is the powder that comes from its root to season foods, however, its leaves can also be used in the preparation of some teas.

• Turmeric Infusion : Place 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder coffee in 150 ml of boiling water and let stand for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then you should let it be warm, drink up to 3 cups a day between meals;
• Turmeric capsules : usually the recommended dose is 2 capsules of 250 mg every 12 hours, totaling 1 g per day, however, the dose may vary according to the problem to be treated; 
• Turmeric gel : mix a tablespoon of aloe with turmeric powder and apply on the regions of the skin that are inflamed, as occurs in psoriasis.

Possible Side Effects

The side effects of turmeric are related to its excessive use, which can cause stomach irritation and dizziness.

Contraindications of Turmeric

Despite having several health benefits, turmeric is contraindicated in people taking anticoagulant medications and in individuals who have bile duct obstruction due to gallbladder stones. Turmeric should be used only under medical guidance if pregnancy or pregnancy is suspected and during breastfeeding.