Turmeric is a spice that not only enhances the flavor of food but can also help to naturally reduce inflammation in the body.
Turmeric is cultivated in many Asian countries and is best known for its striking yellow color, which is due to the main ingredient curcumin. When it comes to the health effects of turmeric, the anti-inflammatory effect is particularly noteworthy.
Turmeric inhibits inflammation
In traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda), turmeric has been used for centuries to treat numerous diseases and health problems. The anti-inflammatory effect, which has meanwhile also been proven by studies, plays a special role.
The anti-inflammatory effect is also confirmed, for example, by a review of the health benefits of turmeric. In addition, the researchers conclude that both turmeric and curcumin, even in high doses, are usually without toxic effects and are well tolerated.
However, the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recommends not to exceed an amount of three milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, since higher intake levels not only threaten gastrointestinal problems, but could also damage the liver.
Another study concludes that curcumin found in turmeric is able to inhibit inflammatory cell proliferation, invasion and angiogenesis via multiple molecular targets and mechanisms of action.
Based on the available pharmacological data from in vitro and in vivo research as well as from clinical trials, curcumin could find medical use to prevent inflammatory diseases in the near future, according to the team.
Skin creams with turmeric
The anti-inflammatory effect of turmeric is also confirmed by nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky from the Majo Clinic (USA). There are already skin creams with turmeric that are said to have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Zeratsky adds that turmeric, or curcumin, could also be useful for conditions such as asthma or rheumatoid arthritis thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.
Various studies have shown that taking turmeric can be associated with reducing swelling and inflammation and relieving pain, with researchers comparing its effectiveness to the pain reliever ibuprofen, according to the nutritionist. However, further studies are needed to unequivocally confirm this effect.
Natural help against inflammation
Taken together, the study results so far suggest that turmeric offers a powerful way to naturally combat inflammation. In particular, people who often suffer from inflammation or inflammatory diseases could benefit significantly from taking turmeric. (as)
