Most people are familiar with turmeric as a spice that has a bright yellow color and is often used to enhance the flavoring of many foods. The chemical component of turmeric, which delivers the key health benefits, is a polyphenol known as curcumin. Over 120 clinical trials have fueled turmeric’s meteoric rise as well as thousands of research papers focused on turmeric curcumin’s remarkable health benefits.
Joint Health
Due to its extraordinary anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric curcumin is an ideal dietary supplement for those suffering from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Many studies confirm that turmeric curcumin supplements can reduce lower back, knee, hand, and wrist joint pain as effectively as ibuprofen.4 But unlike over-the-counter medications, curcumin has no known side effects.
Memory and Focus
A recent double-blind controlled study from UCLA showed that turmeric curcumin has substantial memory and focus benefits. Using a group of people between the ages of 51-84, researchers determined that participants who took curcumin consistently each day had significant memory, mood, and focus improvements.3
Heart Health
Because inflammation is an active contributor to heart disease, turmeric curcumin makes a great addition to any heart-healthy diet. Plus, curcumin counters several specific heart disease risk factors. Curcumin improves blood flow by increasing nitric oxide production while reducing artery plaque build-up.5 Turmeric stimulates the breakdown of cholesterol, which reduces blood cholesterol levels in the body. 2
Digestive Health
Curcumin helps with digestion as it can stimulate your gallbladder to produce bile, which helps in breaking down food faster.6 Bile production also prevents bloating and is an effective remedy for other digestive tract disorders.