Turmeric: The Golden Spice

A couple weeks ago my Friday Food Day recipe was “Golden Milk”, containing turmeric.

What is so “golden” about turmeric?

Is it the color used in foods and cosmetics?  No.

Is it the flavoring in many Asian foods?  No.

Is it the potential to help with depression?  Maybe.

Or the potential to help with high triglycerides?  Maybe.

Oooorrr…is it the potential to help reduce inflammation?  Yeeeeesss!

Turmeric, or curcumin, derived from the root of the turmeric plant is becoming well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties.  Therefore, it can help reduce pain and increase function in people with osteoarthritis.

Raw turmeric comes in the form of powder and oil.  When used to reduce pain, it comes in the form of oral supplements and topical treatments.

Research studies show varying results of pain relief for osteoarthritis when compared to conventional pain relievers depending on the form or product type of turmeric, the duration of intake, dosage amount, and combination therapy, but overall, studies show turmeric to be beneficial in the treatment of pain caused by osteoarthritis.

For those of us suffering from said pain, turmeric, or curcumin, exhibits few adverse side effects or safety concerns for the overall, healthy individual.  As with many alternative supplements, those who are pregnant, breast feeding, or on medications with potential interactions should check with their primary care physician prior to initiating the intake of turmeric/curcumin.

If you choose, may the trial of turmeric/curcumin be your pot of gold at the end of the pain rainbow!