The Science and Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric and its components, including curcumin, have been the subject of scientific studies.

Some research results show that people who have osteoarthritis reported less joint pain when eating turmeric in recipes.

Turmeric’s effect on mood disorders, depression and dementia have also been explored, but studies are small, so more research will reveal if there is a benefit.

In addition to these conditions, research studies have shown some possible benefits of turmeric for:

• Inflammation

• Degenerative eye conditions

• Metabolic syndrome

• Arthritis

• Hyperlipidemia (cholesterol in the blood)

• Anxiety

• Muscle soreness after exercise

• Kidney health

HOW TO ENJOY TURMERIC

There are many high quality supplements and gummies that have turmeric in them.

However you can also opt to have it in tea or soup.

Below are two recipes to try.


Turmeric Tea

Like ginger, turmeric root can be made into a nourishing and tasty tea.

2 tablespoons turmeric root chopped or 2 teaspoons turmeric powder

Bring to a boil in 1–2 cups water

Lower to simmer for 5 minutes and then strain.

“You can drink turmeric tea warm or cold, and add lemon and/or honey to change the taste.”
- Mary-Eve Brown, an oncology clinical dietitian/nutritionist at Johns Hopkins Medicine

Curried Pumpkin Butternut Squash Creamy Vegan Soup

Ingredients

Olive oil

1 pound each pumpkin and butternut squash, peeled and diced

2 shallots, diced

2–3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste

2 tablespoons grated turmeric root or 2 teaspoons turmeric powder

4 cups vegetable stock or broth

1 can unsweetened coconut milk (can use full fat or low fat)

Salt and pepper

Directions

Roast pumpkin and butternut squash with olive oil, salt and pepper at 400 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes. They are done when they are fork tender.

In a large heavy stock pot or Dutch oven, sauté shallot, red curry paste and turmeric in olive oil for 8 to 10 minutes. The shallot should be soft and translucent.

Add vegetable broth, roasted pumpkin and squash.

Simmer for at least 20 minutes.

Taste and adjust with salt, pepper or red curry paste.

Add coconut milk and simmer.

Blend either with stand blender or immersion blender.

TURMERIC SIDE EFFECTS/CAUTIONS

While turmeric is safe for most people when enjoyed in tea or food, if you are allergic to the spice, eating it may cause a rash, hives or abdominal pain.

Most of the side effects are associated with very high concentrations of curcumin found in supplements (pills, capsules and gummies).