Health benefits of turmeric include aiding digestion and relief from pain caused by arthritis, menstrual cramps or heartburn. However, more research must be conducted to fully support the health claims of turmeric, as of 2015.Continue Reading
Additionally, alternative health practitioners claim that turmeric helps prevent cancer and heart disease as well as lower cholesterol. It is also used to treat Alzheimer's disease, irritable bowel syndrome and cystic fibrosis, and it helps restrict the growth of cancer cells.
The main nutritional ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. This compound is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric also contains large amounts of iron and manganese as well as good levels of vitamin B6 and potassium. These vitamins and minerals are acknowledged as being part of a healthy and balanced diet.
However, it should be noted that the main studies done on turmeric were actually done using high doses of curcumin. Many of these studies also combined curcumin with other substances. Most of this research is done for pharmaceutical purposes and not nutritional purposes.
It is also important to consume turmeric combined with black pepper. The body metabolizes turmeric too quickly for it to be highly effective, and the black pepper helps the body receive more benefits from the turmeric.Learn more about Herbs & Spices