TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - This yellow-orange spice is commonly used in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Turmeric has also been used as a remedy in various places like India for centuries to address respiratory issues.
Turmeric is also touted as a superfood that can combat cancer, relieve depression, and much more. Here are the health benefits of turmeric.
1. Relieving Depression
As reported by WebMD, several compounds in turmeric can support health. The most renowned one is curcumin. Scientists are enthusiastic about the potential of curcumin to alleviate depression and aid antidepressants in working better. However, research results are still varied.
2. Treating Type 2 Diabetes
Since curcumin can help combat inflammation and maintain stable blood sugar levels, it can be a useful tool in preventing or treating type 2 diabetes. A study involving 240 adults with prediabetes found that taking curcumin supplements for 9 months reduced their risk of developing diabetes.
3. Fighting Viruses
Curcumin can help combat various viruses, including herpes and flu viruses. However, most research on this is conducted in laboratories, not on humans. It's important to note that turmeric only contains about 3 percent curcumin, and the body does not absorb curcumin well.
4. Relieving Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms
A study observing women over three consecutive menstrual cycles found that curcumin supplements helped relieve premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Turmeric can also relieve menstrual cramps.
5. Contains Bioactive Compounds
Quoted from Healthline, turmeric contains several bioactive compounds that have various potential benefits, such as improving gut health and the immune system. Curcumin is also soluble in fat or oil.
6. Anti-Inflammatory
Curcumin is a bioactive substance that can help combat inflammation, although very high doses are needed to produce therapeutic effects. Nevertheless, this means it has the potential to fight inflammation in various conditions and diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
7. Enhances the Body's Antioxidant Capacity
Oxidative damage is believed to be one of the causes of aging and various diseases. This damage involves free radicals, highly reactive molecules that can cause damage to other cells in the body. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals due to its chemical structure. Further research is needed regarding this benefit.
8. Increases the Development of New Brain Cells
Even in adulthood, brain neurons are capable of forming new connections. In certain areas of the brain, these neurons can proliferate and increase in number. One of the main drivers of this process is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a role in memory and learning and can be found in areas of the brain responsible for eating, drinking, and body weight.
Many common brain disorders have been associated with decreased levels of the BDNF protein, including depression and Alzheimer's disease. Research has found that curcumin can increase BDNF levels in the brain. Therefore, curcumin may be effective in delaying or even reversing many age-related brain diseases and declines in brain function.
9. Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
Curcumin can help protect against various stages of heart disease. Some studies indicate that curcumin can improve heart health. Additionally, curcumin can help reduce inflammation and oxidation that can contribute to heart disease.
Editor's Choice: 5 Benefits of Ginger Shot; Boost Energy and Metabolism
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
4 Benefits of Coconut Water for Your Health
24 menit lalu
Coconut water has various health benefits. Here are at least 4 of its benefits explained.
5 Simple Steps to Overcome Oversleeping and Boost Your Sleep Quality
52 hari lalu
Regularly sleeping more than 9 hours is categorized as oversleeping and has been linked to an increased risk of health issues.
Feeling Down? Here's How Music Therapy Helps Ease Depression
20 April 2025
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Affective Disorders in 2016 revealed that music therapy is effective in reducing symptoms of depression.
Discover 4 Health Benefits of Fasting in Ramadan
9 Maret 2025
When fasting, the body adapts due to lack of food and drink intake for a certain period of time. The body can convert energy from other sources.
5 Hidden Signs of Depression, Ruining Your Life But Always Hidden
12 Februari 2025
Depression is a mental health problem experienced by many people, not only in Indonesia but also throughout the world.
4 Tips for Sandwich Generation to Keep Mental Health In Check
11 Februari 2025
The sandwich generation is responsible for caring for 3 generations at once. Here are tips to maintain mental health for multigenerational caregivers.
KJRI Cape Town Assists Repatriation of Depressed Indonesian Vessel Crew Member from Tegal
20 Februari 2024
KJRI Cape Town, South Africa, assisted in the return of an Indonesian vessel crew member (ABK) from Tegal, MK, back to Indonesia.
5 Ways Loneliness Affect Physical Health
21 November 2023
Loneliness indeed causes discomfort and emotional numbness, but it also creates several physical health problems.
7 Health Issues Caused by Sleep Deprivation
9 Oktober 2023
Sleep deprivation can take a toll on mental and physical well-being. Check out some of the health problems that can result from lack of sleep.
New Study Links Mental Health of Mothers, Newborns
2 Oktober 2021
A study has found a link between a mental health condition in pregnant mothers and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) in their children.
