Turmeric is a popular spice that has gained a lot of attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. From its long and rich history to its modern-day uses, turmeric has a lot to offer. In this post by Functional Medicine Los Angeles, esteemed functional medicine Studio City specialists, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of turmeric and explore how it can benefit you.
The History of Turmeric
- Turmeric has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine. It originated in South Asia and has played an important role in Indian culture for thousands of years. The spice was first cultivated as a dye, but soon its culinary and medicinal uses were discovered. Turmeric was used to treat a variety of ailments, such as digestive issues, skin conditions, and infections.
Activation of Turmeric with Black Pepper
- Turmeric contains a compound called cumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, cumin is not easily absorbed by the body, which limits its effectiveness. Luckily, there’s a simple solution: black pepper. Black pepper contains Piperine, which can increase the absorption of cumin by up to 2000%. By combining turmeric with black pepper, you can enhance the health benefits of this amazing spice.
Health Benefits of Turmeric
- As homeopathic medicine experts, we recognize that turmeric has numerous health benefits. It’s an excellent natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is often linked to chronic diseases like cancer and arthritis. Turmeric is also an antioxidant, which means it can help protect your body against free radicals that can damage your cells. Additionally, turmeric can help improve your digestion, boost your immune system, and even help improve your mood.
How to Digest Turmeric
- To reap the benefits of turmeric, it’s important to consume it in the right way. A good rule of thumb is to consume at most 1-2 teaspoons of turmeric per day. You can add it to your cooking, sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, or mix it with hot water and honey for a soothing drink. Some popular recipes that use turmeric include golden milk and turmeric rice. However, it’s important to note that turmeric can have some side effects, such as stomach upset and allergic reactions, so it’s important to consume it in moderation and consult with your functional medicine Los Angeles doctor if you have any concerns.
A List of Things You Can Do with Turmeric
- Add it to your food: Turmeric is a great spice to add to soups, stews, and curries. It can also be used to season roasted vegetables or as a spice rub for meat.
- Make a turmeric latte: Also known as “golden milk,” turmeric lattes have become a popular drink option. Simply mix turmeric with your choice of milk (dairy or non-dairy), and add a sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Create a turmeric face mask: Turmeric is known for its skin benefits, and a face mask made with turmeric can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. Mix turmeric with ingredients like honey, yogurt, or coconut oil to create a nourishing face mask.
- Use it as a natural dye: Turmeric has long been used as a natural dye, and it can be used to dye fabrics, paper, or even Easter eggs.
- Create a turmeric-infused oil: Mix turmeric with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil to create a turmeric-infused oil that can be used for cooking or as a natural remedy for various ailments.
- Add it to smoothies: Turmeric can be added to smoothies for an extra boost of nutrition. Try blending it with spinach, banana, and almond milk for a delicious and healthy breakfast.
- Use it as a natural antiseptic: As functional medicine Burbank professionals, we’ve witnessed Turmeric’s antiseptic properties, and it can be used to treat minor cuts and scrapes. Simply mix turmeric with a little bit of water to create a paste, and apply it to the affected area.
Turmeric is a versatile and powerful spice that has been used for thousands of years. It has numerous health benefits, and by combining it with black pepper, you can enhance its effectiveness. Whether you’re looking to improve your digestion, reduce inflammation, or simply add some flavor to your meals, turmeric is a great option. So next time you’re in the kitchen, consider adding a little bit of turmeric to your cooking and see how it can benefit you.