Turmeric – Curcumin an Anti-Inflammatory Superfood

Turmeric, the earthy herb of the sun, the golden spice of life this perennial root is native to Southeast Asia it is one of the most precious gifts from nature, used as a spice, food preservative, coloring agent and cosmetic. It is peppery, pungent, earthy, warm and bitter and today it is grown around the world, in India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Thailand,  South America and throughout the Caribbean. Curcumin is the main active medicinal component in turmeric and is most plentiful in the root of the turmeric plant. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for a number of ailments. 

Turmeric a History

Turmeric or Curcuma longa Linn, the golden yellow spice that was once compared to saffron by Marco Polo was first used by the Vedic culture in India over 6000 years ago. Although other varieties of Curcuma grow wild in India, rue turmeric, C. longa most likely came to India from Cochin-China, modern-day Vietnam. Turmeric is most commonly known as a spice today, however, it was first used as a dye and then later as a spice. This perennial plant is widely cultivated in the tropics, however, India still produces the greatest amount of turmeric root. 60% of agricultural land in India is devoted to the harvesting of spices is taken up by turmeric, 80% is consumed domestically and the rest India exports.

It is in India where it was first used as a dye for textiles. Its earliest noted use as a medicinal plant in Ayurvedic treatment was in 250 BC, where it was used to cure ailments that resulted from poisoning. It would eventually become a very important medicinal herb in both the Ancient Greek Unani and Indian Siddha medicinal practices. turmerics voyage out of India began around 300 BC when Alexander the Great entered diplomatic relations with several Indian states. From there it moved into Greece and further along the Spice Route eventually making its way into China in 700 AD. Turmeric enters Eastern Africa in 800 AD, the west of Africa in 1200 AD and it sailed across the ocean to land in Jamaica in the 18th century.

Turmeric influenced each society it arrived in, differently. Its principle medicinal properties may have in one way or another been translated and passed on to its new users, however, its culinary influence is distinct in each case. Traditionally in India, it was used as a cure-all for coughs, colds, sore throat, asthma, peptic ulcers, and dyspepsia. They used it to rid the body of worms and as a topical paste to apply to the skin to reduce inflammation and aid in the healing of measles, chickenpox, and smallpox. In the Greek Unani medicinal practice it was used as a blood purifier, aid for the cardiovascular system as well as a cleanser for the liver. Siddha used turmeric for its antioxidant benefits, boosting the immune system and revitalizing the body.

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Classification and Cultivation

Turmeric is a rhizomatous herb, meaning it has a progressively growing horizontal underground stem which lays out oblique shoots and roots and is a part of the Zingiberaceae family of plants (with ginger being a relation). It possesses a long stock that grows between 1-2 meters tall with pointed oblong leaves and flowers that range in color from yellow to white to pink. Although the plant is a perennial it is grown on rotation with chili, onion, garlic, sugar cane, garlic, and yam, so as to allow the soil to replenish with nutrients. Soils often have a high sand content; though any well-fertilized and nutrient-rich soil would do well for the herb.

Turmeric is a herbaceous tropical plant, cultivated at a temperature of between 20-30 degrees Celsius and needing a great deal of water and irrigation. Although it grows very well in the shade, turmeric grows best and more bountifully in a field exposed to high amounts of sun. Turmeric root, the yellow herb is harvested between the months of January-March/April, with early varieties of the herb maturing within 7-8 months, which other varieties take a few months longer and mature within 8-9 months. When its leaves begin to change from green to yellow and the plant as a whole begins to wither it is essentially time to dig the root out of the ground and begin the process of curing the golden little fingerling spice.

Preservation of Turmeric Through Curation

The rhizome is the underground stem of the plant, it is composed of the central mother rhizome which uses axillary branches known as fingerlings, between 7-12 are attached to each mother rhizome. Curing is a process by which food is preserved as well as its flavor. Curing the root involves boiling and sun drying the herbs rhizomes. The root is boiled to ensure the following;

• diminishing the growth of the fresh rhizome
• hinder the bad odor
• cut down on the initial drying time
• gelatinize the starch to make it firmer
• to allow it’s a golden yellow color to spread through the root more evenly

The root is boiled for between 45 minutes to an hour in either a copper, iron or earthenware vat with enough water to ensure that all the rhizomes are submerged slightly. The drying process takes between 10 to 15 days and involves the root fingers to dry in the sun on bamboo mats. After the sun drying they are essentially ready to either be sold as a whole or ground into turmeric powder.

Turmeric Nutritional Constituents

Turmeric is rich in minerals and incredibly potent in plant secondary compounds. Nutritionally speaking it is a complex herb/spice, on average containing;

It contains traces of various vitamins and minerals, however, it is richest in its sources of manganese, iron, vitamin B6, copper, fiber and potassium. Though the amounts may seem minimal one does not need to take a great deal of turmeric or curcumin to receive the benefits from this golden root.

Turmeric, ground
2.00 tsp
(4.40 g)	GI: very low
BASIC MACRONUTRIENTS AND CALORIES
nutrient	amount
Protein	0.34 g
Carbohydrates	2.86 g
Fat – total	0.43 g
Dietary Fiber	0.93 g
Calories	15.58
MACRONUTRIENT AND CALORIE DETAIL
nutrient	amount
Carbohydrate:
Total Sugars	0.14 g
Monosaccharides	0.04 g
Fructose	0.02 g
Glucose	0.02 g
Galactose	0.00 g
Disaccharides	0.10 g
Lactose	0.00 g
Maltose	0.00 g
Sucrose	0.10 g
Other Carbohydrates	1.79 g
Fat:
Monounsaturated Fat	0.07 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	0.10 g
Saturated Fat	0.14 g
Trans Fat	0.00 g
Calories from Fat	3.91
Calories from Saturated Fat	1.24
Calories from Trans Fat	0
Cholesterol	0.00 mg
Water	0.50 g
MICRONUTRIENTS
nutrient	amount
Vitamins
Water-Soluble Vitamins
B-Complex Vitamins
Vitamin B1	0.01 mg
Vitamin B2	0.01 mg
Vitamin B3	0.23 mg
Vitamin B3 (Niacin Equivalents)	0.23 mg
Vitamin B6	0.08 mg
Vitamin B12	0.00 mcg
Choline	2.16 mg
Folate	1.72 mcg
Folate (DFE)	1.72 mcg
Folate (food)	1.72 mcg
Vitamin C	1.14 mg
Vitamin E mg Alpha-Tocopherol Equivalents (ATE)	0.14 mg (ATE)
Vitamin E International Units (IU)	0.20 IU
Vitamin E mg	0.14 mg
Vitamin K	0.59 mcg
Minerals
nutrient	amount
Calcium	8.05 mg
Copper	0.03 mg
Iron	1.82 mg
Magnesium	8.49 mg
Manganese	0.34 mg
Phosphorus	11.79 mg
Potassium	111.10 mg
Selenium	0.20 mcg
Sodium	1.67 mg
Zinc	0.19 mg
INDIVIDUAL FATTY ACIDS
nutrient	amount
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	0.02 g
Omega-6 Fatty Acids	0.07 g
Monounsaturated Fats
18:1 Oleic	0.07 g
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
18:2 Linoleic	0.07 g
18:3 Linolenic	0.02 g
Saturated Fatty Acids
4:0 Butyric	0.00 g
6:0 Caproic	0.00 g
8:0 Caprylic	0.00 g
10:0 Capric	0.01 g
12:0 Lauric	0.02 g
14:0 Myristic	0.01 g
15:0 Pentadecanoic	0.00 g
16:0 Palmitic	0.07 g
17:0 Margaric	0.00 g
18:0 Stearic	0.01 g
20:0 Arachidic	0.00 g
22:0 Behenate	0.00 g
24:0 Lignoceric	0.00 g

The secondary plant compounds are very prevalent in its essential oils. It contains approximately 2-5% curcuminoids, though there are some varieties of turmeric that can contain upwards of 9%, as well as a mixture of a-phellandrene at 1%, cineol at 1%, zingiberene at about 25%, sabinene at 0.6% and sesquiterpenes at 53%. Other compounds include aromatic-turmerones, a-turmerones, B-turmerones, a-santalene and aromatic curcumene. These oils provide the golden root and its derivative curcumin their beneficial health properties, making the herb a potent antioxidant, immune booster and inflammation reducer amongst other things. 

Turmeric oleoresin

This is the organic extract of the root, orange-red in colour, which is made up of between 30-45% curcuminoid pigments and between 15-20% volatile oils. There is a range of volatile oils that include; 60% turmerone, 25% zingiberene, D-a-phellandrene, D-sabinene, cineole and farnesol. 

Health Benefits

The health benefits of turmeric are amazing. The powder has a powerful positive systemic effect on the body and its functioning. It benefits the skeletal system, lymphatic system, circulatory system and cellular health, positively affects all these areas by reducing inflammation, providing nutrition, antiseptic and antibacterial benefits all placed together it revamps the body.

It has been shown to be beneficial at combating nausea, diarrhea, aiding in nutrient absorption and combating the symptoms of chemotherapy. it has been shown to be beneficial at enhancing brain health, improving memory, fighting Alzheimer’s Disease and reducing symptoms of Parkinson’s.

It Contains Curcumin – a Nutrient with Anti-inflammatory Properties

Curcumin is the main curcuminoid in turmeric. It gives the root its distinct golden yellow colour as well as numerous health benefits.  It has been shown to be advantageous to wounds both aseptic and septic as well as being beneficial for the protection of cancers of the stomach and mouth. It is high in anti-inflammatory activity, aiding in reducing joint pain, eliminating intestinal gas (and preventing its formation) as well as aiding in nerve dysfunction and inflammation. Curcumin promotes the increase of bile secretion from the liver as well as increases the activity of the pancreas and the enzymes it produces. Curcumin along with other powerful phenolic compounds such as desmethoxycurcumin and bis-desmethoxycurcumin have been shown to aid in combating germs, bacteria and viruses as well as improving overall digestive wellness.

Curcumin also aids in reducing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s in individuals with the disease. 

A limitation of curcumin is its poor absorption by the body, it needs to be in the presence of fat to get absorbed by the gut (Wahlstrom, B., et al., 1978). Many people will add black pepper, which aids in curcumins processing through the liver, but in order for it to get to the liver, it needs to be absorbed into the gut which it needs a lipid for. 

Anti-inflammatory Benefits

The active compound curcumin and essential turmeric oil have been shown to increase the body’s own ability to reduce inflammation by increasing the gene interleukin 10 and 11 which are responsible for reducing inflammation. As compounds, they have also been seen to reduce inflammation within the digestive tract as well as reducing the swelling and pain associated with joint inflammation.

Turmeric can also be applied topically to reduce inflammation associated with eczema and psoriasis. It is particularly beneficial for the topical treatment of acne. It’s anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties which can be obtained from using turmeric powder. Aid in reducing inflammation associated with acne as well as combating bacterial infections within the inflamed pores of the skin (Toden, S., et al., 2017).

Helps Reduce Inflammation and Pain for Individuals with Arthritis

The combination of essential turmeric oil (ETO) and curcumin have been shown to be very beneficial at reducing systemic inflammation and pain for individuals suffering from Arthritis. The presence of ETO makes the anti-inflammatory benefits of curcumin more potent and enhances the bioavailability of the compound in the body. IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory gene, that is made less effective by the presence of inflammatory diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoporosis and Lupus (which are all forms of Arthritis), supplementation of curcumin has been shown to increase its effect. The combined supplementation of ETO and curcumin has been shown to make this gene even more effective at reducing inflammation, particularly in joints and within the digestive system.

As some forms of arthritis are an autoimmune disease, reducing inflammation in the colon can be an important place to start for alleviating pain and providing more movement within the body (Toden, S., et al., 2017).

Boosts the Immune System

When our immune system is out of balance the body’s defence against foreign invaders and infectious organisms is not up to par and the likelihood of us getting sick increases. Oxidative stress occurs in the body when the immune system is imbalanced. There is a heightened presence of free radicals and a build-up of inflammation. Antioxidants, like turmeric aid in preventing free radical formation in the body, by supporting the digestive system, reducing inflammation, stimulating the lymphatic system and providing the immune system with a boost.  

Heart Benefits 

Cardiovascular disease often involves a blockage or narrowing of blood vessels, which has the potential to lead to angina (pain felt in the chest), heart attacks or strokes. The free radical oxidative damage that occurs to lipoproteins leads to a build-up of plaque on arterial walls which can lead to the development of coronary heart disease. Potent antioxidants such as curcumin or vitamin C play a role in reducing free radical damage that affects coronary plaquing. Curcumin has also been shown to strengthen the endothelial lining of blood vessels (Maxwell, S.R., et al., 1997). 

Reduces Inflammation of the Gums and Helps Support Oral Health

The root and its derivative, curcumin,  have been used in the treatment of oral pain and inflammation for centuries through Ayurvedic medicine. As some dentists have taken a turn in the past decade to a more holistic approach to use and study of turmeric and curcumin’s effect on oral health more scientific research has emerged detailing the benefits on this golden powder on the health of gums and health.

• Topically applied to gums to reduce inflammation and swelling
• Pain is relieved by rinsing the mouth with turmeric powder
• Powdered root has shown to strengthen gums and aid in the elimination of gingivitis and periodontitis
• Aid in the prevention and removal of plaque from teeth
• A natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent

There is no toxicity with the use of the whole root (however it may have interactions with certain medications, such as blood thinners so speak with your family health physician before supplementing with turmeric or curcumin) so its benefits cannot be overlooked. Oral health, after all, is the first step to overall wellness and well being within and outside of the body.

Reduces Inflammation of the Digestive System

One of the limitations of curcumin is that it is poorly absorbed following ingestion, and made even more difficult when the body is experiencing systemic inflammation, particularly located in the bowels as the form of Irritable Bowel Syndrom (IBS) or Ulcerative Colitis. A 2017 study (Toden, S., et al.,) has shown that the combination of essential turmeric oil with curcumin enhances curcumins absorption by upwards of 7-10 times. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrom affects about 45 million Americans each year, with disorders that include Ulcerative colitis and Chrones Disease. Its symptoms include extensive and prolonged inflammation of the digestive tract, often associated with the presence of ulcers or sores appearing along the digestive tract. Symptoms include; diarrhea, abdominal and rectal pain as well as cramping. Although curcumin extract does aid in reducing inflammation, the presence of essential turmeric oil increases its bioavailability and provides superior anti-inflammatory efficacy. (Toden, S., 2017). 

Turmeric Promotes Proper Digestion

Curcuma longa Linn is an incredibly beneficial spice for digestive wellbeing. Its anti-inflammatory actions as well as being a potent anti-fungal aid in reducing the build-up of candida and healing of inflamed intestinal walls. Excessive inflammation of the intestinal walls has a negative impact on nutrient absorption. When curcumin is supplemented in the presence of an essential fat or when it is eaten whole its works much better at reducing bowel inflammation, which with time will aid in promoting better nutrient absorption. 

Reduces Oxidative Stress and Free Radical Damage – which Reduces the Risk of Cancer

The antioxidant power of turmeric is incredibly powerful. Its ability to fight off free radical damage, reduce oxidative stress and bring down inflammation make it a potent aid in the fight against and prevention of Cancer.

• Because it aid in reducing inflammation and pain curcumin and turmeric alike work somewhat similarly to a corticosteroid, however instead of preventing white blood cells from coming to the affected area they allow them to come and aid in their battle against unwanted cells – such as tumours
• Has been shown to prevent breast cancer cells from spreading to the lungs
• Aids in the prevention of childhood leukemia
• Curcumin has been shown to be potentially effective against the prevention of multiple myeloma which has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumours
  The herb’s ability to eliminate heavy metals from the body and support detoxification aids in the reduction of the body’s toxic load – a cleaner body, with more oxygen available and higher antioxidant count allow for a heightened defence and greater prevention of cancer as well as aid in its elimination.

Even if one is partaking in chemotherapy it is beneficial to add turmeric or curcumin to your post-surgery, surgery and recovery journey. The slightest bit of help to the body will make a world of difference, so throw this delightful golden yellow herb into your daily regiment and start reaping the benefits.

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally. A whole food diet rich in organic vegetable and fruits with a reduction in processed foods has been shown to be beneficial for some individuals at risk of/ or with colorectal cancer. However, high-risk individuals may not receive enough risk-reducing benefits from whole foods, supplementation of curcumin extract has been shown to provide a chemopreventative action during progressive stages of colon cancer (Kawamari, T., et al., 1999) (Cheng, A.L., et al., 2001). 

Benefits for Skin

Many of the benefits of turmeric and its active compound curcumin we attest to its workings when consumed orally, however, it is just as powerful when applied topically. It aids in the reduction of inflammation and swelling (and pain associated with such issues) making it a great topical application (which can also be used across the whole body). In many scientific animal studies, it has been shown to reduce skin inflammation making it a reliable treatment (eds. Ravindran, P.N., et al., 2007). This anti-inflammatory reduction is mainly thanks to essential turmeric oil (Graf, J., 2000).

Applied topically, as a spot treatment, salve or masks is effective in the treatment of acne, rashes, eczema, pimples, psoriasis, fungal infections and it has been known to discourage the growth of facial hair (eds. Ravindran, P.N., et al., 2007) (which can be beneficial for individuals with hypertrichosis or hirsutism – a turmeric mask would need to be applied daily for at least a month to see results) (Dayal, R., 2008). Tumeric aids in healing and cleansing the skin through assisting in the skin’s ability to detoxify. Daily we are exposed to hundreds of different environmental toxins and pollutants that clog our pores making it hard for skin to breathe and cleanse itself.

Curcumin the active compound in turmeric possesses anti-aging benefits. Premature aging is often a result of environmental factors and skins inability to detox as well as a lack of sufficient nutrients. Topically curcumin has been shown to prevent free radical damage, aid in the prevention of skins water loss, provides skin with a natural SPF of 15, protects skin against the appearance of wrinkles, aids in a youthful appearance and promotes glowing skin (Mukherjee, P.K., et al., 2011).

Hormone Balancing Benefits

The endocrine system contains the glands in the body that are responsible for producing hormones. When out of balance it can cause imbalances within the thyroid, adrenal glands and can cause elevated cholesterol levels. Turmeric is beneficial for individuals with high levels of cholesterol. Cholesterol is secreted by glands in our skin and is needed for many important hormonal roles in the body. Cholesterol also acts as an antioxidant when vitamins and minerals are low in the body, therefore supplementing and consuming foods that are rich in antioxidants, such as turmeric is essential in lowering excess levels of cholesterol (Erasmus, U., 1993).

Caution 

Turmeric is a safe spice to use during pregnancy, however, supplementation of turmeric or its derivatives may not be and therefore should be only used under the guidance and advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Turmeric has the potential to make individuals with gallbladder issues worse off, therefore it is wise to use caution and speak to a qualified medical practitioner prior to supplementation. Turmeric, in particular, curcumin has the potential to thin the blood of the user and prevent blood clotting, this can become an issue if the individual supplementing is going in for surgery that might cause excessive bleeding.

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