Turmeric what it is, main benefits and contraindications

Turmeric – What it is, main benefits and contraindications

Its scientific name is Cúrcuma Longa and it can be purchased in natural medicine stores, compounding pharmacies and in markets for 10 reais.

Also known as turmeric or turmeric, turmeric is nothing more than a type of root with medicinal properties and culinary use. Furthermore, it is a unique spice, and is part of the ginger family.

There are more than 100 species of the turmeric family worldwide. The root has been used for over 4000 years, mainly in the Middle East and Asia. In Brazil, it is very popular in the Central-West region, especially in Goiás. However, it is also widely used in Minas Gerais.

It is basically a plant with long, shiny leaves measuring around 60 cm and long orange roots. Its scientific name is Long turmeric and can be purchased in natural medicine stores, compounding pharmacies and even in some markets for an average price of 10 reais.

Benefits of Turmeric

In short, it is highly recommended for problems such as colds, sinusitis, bacterial infections, changes in the liver, diabetes, injuries, as well as anorexia and rheumatism.

See some of its pharmacological properties:

• antioxidant;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antibacterial;
• antidiarreica;
• antiescorbútica;
• antispasmodic;
• antifungal;
• antiparasitic;
• antitumor;
• antiviral;
• diuretic;
• hepatoprotetora;
• neuroprotetora;
• reducing cholesterol levels;
• sedatives;
• Improves digestion;
• Helps with weight loss;
• Fights colds and flu;
• Avoid asthma attacks;
• Regulates intestinal flora;
• Regulates cholesterol;
• Improves the natural anti-inflationary response.

Furthermore, turmeric can also help fight stomach cancer. According to a study carried out by researchers from the Federal Universities of São Paulo (Unifesp) and Pará (UFPA), possible therapeutic effects of this pigment can combat this disease. However, it remains under investigation.

However, other studies also suggest that turmeric has neuroprotective effects in the treatment of diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. But they also continue to be researched.

Used as a natural remedy

First of all, if you have a cough or feel like your throat is scratchy, this is a sign that inflammation may be on the way, so trust turmeric. In short, you can prepare a natural remedy using a pinch of turmeric, a pinch of ginger and a teaspoon of honey. Basically, this remedy promotes immune defense and reduces inflammation.

Check out this recipe with turmeric for inflammation

Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric with 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Add water to make a paste, apply it to a clean cloth and use it as a compress on the affected joint. Another way to take advantage of the anti-inflammatory powers of turmeric is to add 1 tablespoon of this plant to 1 cup of warm milk before bed.

Other ways to use turmeric

• Infusion: First put 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in 150 ml of boiling water and let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. Immediately after cooling, drink up to 3 cups a day between meals;
• Capsules: generally the recommended dosage is 2 capsules of 250 mg every 12 hours, totaling 1 g per day, however, the dosage may vary according to the problem to be treated;
• Gel: Mix a tablespoon of aloe vera with turmeric powder and apply to skin inflammations, such as psoriasis.

Used in foods

The flavor of the root is slightly spicy. However, it is widely used as a condiment and can be used, for example, in:

• Scrambled eggs
• Meats and broths
• Rice
• Salads
• Breads
• Fish
• Cooked and sautéed vegetables
• Chicken
• Soup
• Noodle
• Sauces

First of all, always use turmeric to complement the traditional seasoning with salt and garlic in your favorite recipes. Secondly the quantity should definitely not exceed one coffee spoon. And thirdly, first dilute the spice in cold water before adding it to your recipes. This will prevent the ingredient from clumping.

Turmeric Chicken Recipe

You will need:

• 3 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• Black pepper
• sal

Way of doing:

First prepare the turmeric seasoning for the chicken breasts by mixing the oil with the turmeric, salt and black pepper to taste. Then clean the chicken breasts of skin, fat and bones and cut each chicken breast into 2 fillets.

Afterwards, rub the previous seasoning on them, place on a baking tray and set aside for 30 minutes to 2 hours, so that the meat absorbs the flavors.

Finally, after the indicated time, bake your chicken fillet with turmeric in the oven at 200ºC for 10-15 minutes or cook on a fat-free grill until golden. Then serve with sautéed vegetables.

Side effects

In summary, the side effects are related to its excessive use, which can cause stomach irritation and mainly nausea. So be careful with abusive use.

Contraindications

I will say in advance that turmeric is a product that has low toxicity, causing no harm when used in doses of up to 10 g/day. However, people who have gastric ulcers or who have a history of the problem should definitely not consume it.

Especially people with bile duct obstruction, bleeding disorders or who use medications that alter the clotting process should also not use it.

However, the food should also not be used by pregnant women. Its use is also not suitable for breastfeeding women and especially children.

Finally, this was our content, if you liked it, read also: Cayenne Pepper – What are the benefits, how to consume and contraindications

Featured image: Alegro

Sources: All recipes Brasil Escola Tua Saúde