Turmeric is one of the most researched medicinal foods on the planet. This vividly yellow spice, made of the ground up the dried root of the Curcuma longa plant, is renowned for its impact on brain health. But, as you’ll see, it has so many other powerful benefits.
Improve Brain Health
Neurons, the cells that make up your brain, are capable of multiplying if given the right conditions. And turmeric boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), the growth hormone linked with this process. Higher levels of BDNF may be responsible for delaying or reversing degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer’s, as well as improving memory.
Thanks to curcumin, the active substance in turmeric, this herb is one of the planet’s best natural anti-inflammatories. Inflammation, of course, is responsible for a whole host of health problems, so a substance that reverses or protects against this damaging process is invaluable.
Relieves Pain Naturally
Few non-pharmaceutical substances can help you manage pain as effectively as turmeric. Numerous studies support the efficacy of turmeric’s curcumin to relieve the pain of arthritis, sciatica, joint problems, wounds, burns, neuropathy, and dental issues.
Helps Manage Bowel Disorders
The pain and inconvenience of inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease is truly difficult to live with. That’s why turmeric’s proven ability to maintain remission of these chronic diseases constitutes an incredible breakthrough. In one study, turmeric was shown to be four times more effective than the leading medication.
Possibly Treat or Prevent Certain Cancers
Turmeric’s curcumin may have anti-cancer properties. In many studies, it has been shown to kill cancer cells and prevent others from growing. The particular cancers it proves most effective in treating or preventing include bowel, skin, breast, and stomach.