Turmeric... Simple Everyday Health
I honestly couldn’t specify in my title to which specific target area Turmeric is best for, because there are SO many, and I didn’t want to focus on just one area in particular that Turmeric could aid you in, I want to show you as many as I could possibly find and the things I have experienced myself with this beautiful golden powerhouse. At Ancient Purity we call our Turmeric the Queen of the Spices! And for numerous reasons. Ones which I will share with you in this article, so prepare to fall in love with this Queen, just like we have.
Turmeric, the golden spice commonly used in South Asian cooking, thankfully has gained popularity worldwide for its health-promoting properties. Known for its distinctive colour and flavour, Turmeric contains curcumin, a bioactive compound responsible for most of its healing benefits. This ancient root has been studied extensively, revealing it to be an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and an immune-supportive powerhouse that can aid with a wide variety of ailments. So let’s do it, let’s take a deep dive into the many wonders that is Turmeric.
When Did The Turmeric Obsession Begin?
Not surprising to learn, the use of Turmeric dates back thousands of years, particularly in ancient Indian and Southeast Asian cultures, where it has been prized for its medicinal, culinary, and spiritual applications. My own personal obsession with Turmeric began around 6 years ago when I had tried so many different protocols for digestive issues, and I came across a video by Dr Berg who talks into Turmeric, supporting the uses of it in EVERY ailment possible, but for me more specifically at the time, digestive issues. Luckily today, it's widely recognised in both traditional and modern medicine. Let’s have a little look at the timeline of Turmeric use:
Ancient India (around 4000 years ago): Turmeric has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine since roughly 2000 BCE. Ancient Ayurvedic texts describe Turmeric as a powerful anti-inflammatory and healing agent used to treat everything from digestive issues to skin conditions and respiratory ailments.
Traditional Chinese Medicine: Around the same period, Turmeric also appeared in Chinese medicine as a treatment for pain, digestive issues, and infections.
Medieval Trade & Spread (1000-1500 AD): Turmeric spread through the spice trade routes to the Middle East and Africa, where it was also valued for its medicinal and preservative qualities.
Modern Western Interest (20th Century): Western scientific studies into curcumin, Turmeric’s active compound, began in earnest in the 20th century. Research focused on its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties, which popularised Turmeric globally as a supplement and superfood.
Turmeric in Everyday Life
The one thing I do want to provide is an extensive list of helpful ways in which Turmeric can help you, what it can be used for, and the ways in which you can use it. So below I’ve put together such a list. I have no doubt that it can work as I have experienced its magic myself, numerous times, for DIFFERENT ailments, and not just with myself but also for family members and more notably, my kids! So whatever it is that brings you here, take a look at the list and see if you can be (mesmerised) helped in some way by the Queen of spices. I will also link our Turmeric powder numerous times below for easy viewing access for you:
Turmeric for Inflammation & Pain Relief
One of Turmeric’s most celebrated benefits is its ability to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a root cause of many health issues, from joint pain and arthritis to chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. The curcumin in Turmeric inhibits inflammation-causing molecules, such as cytokines and enzymes like COX-2, providing relief without the side effects often associated with conventional anti-inflammatory medications.
How to Use It:
Turmeric Powder: Turmeric powder offers a convenient way to get a high dose of curcumin. We strongly believe in utilising the powdered form instead of capsules because the capsules can be expensive, filled with other stuff and perhaps only provide a low dose. So have a look at our Pure Turmeric Powder and see what you think.
Add to Salad Dressings: Mix a pinch of Turmeric with our Extra Virgin Olive Oil or melt some of our Coconut Oil, lemon juice, and black pepper for a nutrient-rich dressing. Adding healthy fats to Turmeric too such as olive oil or coconut oil enhances its absorption rates in our body as the fats help with transportation to our cells. Amazing right!?
Supports Brain Health & Mental Wellbeing
Turmeric has gained attention for its potential in supporting brain health and mood. Seriously, these benefits are crazy vast! Some studies indicate that the curcumin in Turmeric may be as effective as certain antidepressants in reducing symptoms of depression when combined with other therapies. Curcumin may increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps maintain neurons and plays a role in learning and memory. Lower levels of BDNF have been linked to depression and other mental health conditions. Additionally, curcumin may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, factors that contribute to cognitive decline.
How to Use It:
Cooking with Turmeric: Turmeric is perfect for seasoning vegetables, curries, rice, and soups, allowing you to enjoy its digestive benefits naturally.
Specific Time to Enjoy: I mentioned a doctor earlier called Dr Berg who has a great video with instructions on when to have Turmeric depending on what ailment/condition you are using it for. If you are using it for digestive health reasons, he says it is best to have this with food as food helps with absorption so perhaps just before your breakfast, and again just before your dinner.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Curcumin has been shown to improve endothelial function, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood vessels and reducing the risk of heart disease. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Turmeric can help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, both of which are critical factors in cardiovascular health.
How to Use It:
Daily Spice Routine: Including Turmeric in your daily diet, even as a small sprinkle in your meals, may provide long-term cardiovascular benefits.
Golden Milk Lattes on the Go: Turmeric lattes are increasingly available in coffee shops, allowing you to enjoy heart-healthy Turmeric on a busy schedule. But if you do have the time, sprinkle some of your own Turmeric Powder into your coffees and have in a to-go cup!
Immune System Support
Turmeric’s immune-boosting effects come from its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, helping the body fend off infections and reduce the severity of illness. Curcumin has also been shown to activate various immune cells, which can help the body respond effectively to foreign invaders.
How to Use It:
Add to Soups & Broths: Turmeric adds a warm flavour and a vibrant colour to soups, which is perfect for when you’re feeling run down.
Quick Turmeric Shots: Blend a small amount of Turmeric powder or freshly grated Turmeric with lemon juice and a pinch of black pepper for a quick immune boost in the morning. Perhaps consider washing it down with a little water after too, as the taste can be slightly erm, acquired!
Skin Health & Radiance
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Turmeric is beneficial for skin health as well. It can help reduce acne, improve skin elasticity, and even reduce the appearance of scars. Turmeric may also combat oxidative damage that contributes to signs of ageing.
How to Use It:
Face Mask: Make a simple mask by mixing Turmeric with honey and Greek yogurt. Apply it to the face for about 10 minutes to soothe inflammation and brighten the skin. Wash off well!
Final Thoughts
At Ancient Purity, our specific supply of Turmeric is grown in a part of India known as Andhra Pradesh. This particular area claims the title of the largest Turmeric producer in India and it is referred to as Indian Saffron. Turmeric really is a spice that needs to be experienced for whatever health needs you are currently in need of assistance with. It’s an ancient spice holding its place in the health and wellness world for very good reason, IT WORKS! We have actually supplied numerous Turmeric products, foods and extracts over the years but we are absolutely certain that we have the best version of this wonderful spice available. Try it and see for yourself. We wouldn’t stock it if we didn’t believe in its potential.
I have a particular tonic that I make at home when I feel myself getting unwell and it is as follows: 1 cup distilled water, 3 tbsp of Lemon juice, a pinch of black pepper, 1 tsp Ancient Purity Pure Ginger Powder, and of course, 1 tsp of Ancient Purity Turmeric Powder. I call this the Healing Turmeric Tonic and it works absolute wonders, especially on tickly coughs or a tight/mucus chest. Most of my friends and family also now have the same tonic too because it works. If you want to make this into a hot drink add a little honey too and enjoy it warm instead.
The curcumin in Turmeric’s ability to aid in a broad spectrum of ailments is truly impressive. From reducing inflammation and oxidative stress to boosting mental health and supporting immune function, curcumin is one of nature’s most versatile remedies. Whether you incorporate it as a dietary supplement, in your daily cooking, or as part of a holistic health regimen, Turmeric offers a safe, natural option to enhance wellness across the board.
Turmeric can be so versatile to add into daily life. So whether you’re looking to support inflammation reduction, improve digestion, boost immunity, or enhance brain health, Turmeric offers a natural, science-backed way to promote wellness. Its versatility means you can enjoy it in cooking, supplements, drinks, and even skincare routines. Embrace this ancient spice as part of your everyday health practice and experience its transformative effects for yourself.
“I’ve got 99 problems and Turmeric solved like 86 of them” – Unknown
