Turmeric: Nature's health secret

Turmeric, also known as curcuma longa, is an incredibly popular spice that is often referred to as the “queen of spices”. It features a pepper-like aroma, golden colour and sharp taste that is used in cooking all over the world. Despite the fact that a lot of people are unaware of turmeric’s amazing benefits, it has been used for thousands of years as a natural medical remedy and has been traditionally used for a range of diseases and conditions. Its active compound, curcumin, is believed to contain anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties that indicate true potential in clinical medicine.

In traditional Indian medicine, turmeric has been used as a natural remedy for stomach and liver ailments. It was also used for aches, pains, fevers, wounds, sprains and liver disorders as well as various skin disorders including eczema, chicken pox, shingles, allergies and scabies. It is known to have been used in its powder spice form mixed with water or milk and has also been made into a fresh juice.

Modern research has looked into turmeric many times and it is quickly becoming one of the most researched natural remedies. Its benefits have been investigated in relation to many different illnesses and conditions and it has now been linked to:

Many of its health benefits are down to its nutritional content that is high in various essential vitamins and minerals. It contains polyunsaturated and monounsaturated good fats, fibre, potassium, calcium, vitamin C and B6, iron and magnesium. However turmeric’s biggest health effects are thanks to its chemical compound curcumin.