There is so much to know and love about Turmeric. It has hit the mainstream and made a name for itself. The extracts that our medical convenience culture gets from this plant are easily a bridge since Curcumin is exactly what herbalists focus on as an active constituent (along with many other beneficial ingredients that the one constituent does not offer).
Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, is a flowering plant belonging to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. Its roots, which are the rhizomes, are the primary source of the spice that is widely utilized not only in culinary applications but also in various herbal beverages and traditional medicine practices across the globe. The vibrant yellow-orange pigment of turmeric is attributed to curcumin, a bioactive compound that is not only responsible for its striking color but also plays a crucial role in its health-promoting properties.
Today most folks have heard of this herb since its use is widespread. You'll find this in many culinary dishes, creams, capsules, extracts and the list goes on! I would say this is one of the basic home staples that most folks will find in their home. Any basic curry dish will contain Turmeric and help in many ways just consuming it. Also there are more creative uses like offering a beautiful color to cloth dies.
Although I do make extracts using Turmeric, you'll make a tea with it or strain it out of an oil for a salve. There are so many benefits using the whole herb. I like adding it in its whole herb form to things like Golden Milk & Moon Milk, extracts like these you get the whole shebang. First you will absorb the oil used, then you will digest most the liquid constituents in the upper digestive tract. Then the more whole root/herb pieces will make their way to be slowly consumed as it moves through the rest of your digestive tract.
What is the difference between Turmeric Root & Curcumin?
Curcumin is a specific constituent extracted out of the plant material & non-extractable constituents, to offer a highly specific tool. Specifically targeting the bodies inflammatory response & usually along with Peperine from Black Pepper. Most folks would say the Peperine 'activates' the Curcumin, this is a common misunderstanding. Peperine increases your bodies ability to absorb Curcumin by up to 2000%. This can be good or bad, each person is different and your heat is different. If you have a cold response heat this is a wonderful herb, if you have a hot response heat you might find this to be antagonistic.
Also there is a thing as too much Curcumin. You will start to notice some digestive issues, headaches, rashes or nausea.
The whole plant offers many synergistic constituents that can take care of a lot of needs the body requires for absorption of Curcumin in the root. You can still use the whole herb in the same manner as the Curcumin extract. Most of the side effects that you will get in your digestive tract will be 'quenced' by the other constitients in the root itself.
Curcumin is classified as a carotenoid compound, which is a class of pigments that are prevalent in many plants. This particular compound is recognized for its potent antioxidant capabilities, which help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
In addition to curcumin, turmeric contains two other related compounds known as demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Collectively, these three compounds and more are referred to as curcuminoids. These curcuminoids work synergistically to enhance the health benefits associated with turmeric, contributing to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. The diverse array of biological activities attributed to curcuminoids has made them a focal point of research in the fields of nutrition and medicine, with numerous studies investigating their potential therapeutic effects.
When discussing carotenoids, it is essential to highlight other well-known examples such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are particularly recognized for their protective roles in eye health, helping to filter harmful blue light and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Another significant carotenoid is beta-carotene, which the body metabolizes into vitamin A, a vital nutrient that supports vision, immune function, and skin health. Carotenoids, including those found in turmeric, contribute not only to the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables but also play a critical role in the plants' ability to perform photosynthesis by absorbing light energy. Furthermore, these compounds serve as antioxidants, protecting plant cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, which can result from environmental stressors such as UV radiation and pollution.
Extensive research has indicated that Curcumin can influence various cell signaling pathways in our bodies, which may elucidate its extensive beneficial effects on human health. For instance, Curcumin has been shown to modulate inflammatory responses, which is particularly relevant in the context of chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, studies suggest that curcumin may have a role in enhancing cognitive function and providing neuroprotective effects (Brain Blend), making it a subject of interest in the study of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease. The potential of Curcumin to affect gene expression and cellular processes highlights its significance as a natural compound that may contribute to overall health and well-being.
It's best to avoid using Turmeric near any surgeries, I like to skip it 2 weeks before & after the surgery.
We are always finding more & more about this herb. As time passes I hope you find ways to make use of it. You will find this herb and many more in our shop whole herb or powder!
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