This Vibrant Spice is Just as Strong as Over-the-Counter Anti-Inflammatories

...and boasts no harmful side effects, unlike their chemical counterparts.

The Power of Turmeric

Turmeric, the vibrant golden spice that gives Indian curry its brilliant yellow color, has recently surged in popularity as a powerful medicinal herb. Native to Southeast Asia, turmeric has been a staple in traditional medicine practices like Ayurveda for over 4,000 years. With its distinctive earthy aroma and slightly bitter taste, turmeric has transcended its culinary roots to become a global phenomenon in the health and wellness sphere.

Turmeric is in the same family as ginger, which also possesses powerful medicinal properties. Just like ginger, the rhizome (root) contains active compounds that provide numerous health benefits, proving as effective as many over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.¹

Health Benefits of Curcumin

Turmeric's active compound, curcumin, boasts potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.¹ Because of these properties, curcumin possesses numerous health benefits, including:

• Managing osteoarthritis pain
• Improving digestive health
• Inhibiting inflammatory enzymes that contribute to arterial plaque buildup
• Neutralizing free radicals that damage blood vessels
• Boosting cellular repair and reducing inflammation

Curcumin and Cancer Research

According to one promising study, curcumin targets multiple signaling pathways involved in the initiation, development, and growth of select tumors. However, more research is needed to verify these results.²

Enhancing Absorption: The Power of Piperine

Curcumin is poorly absorbed by itself, possibly due to rapid metabolism and elimination. Adding a small amount of piperine, the active component in black pepper, can increase its bioavailability by a remarkable 2,000%!³

Golden Milk Recipe

Whether you're sprinkling turmeric on your food or sipping it in a warming beverage, it offers a delicious way to boost your health while connecting with centuries of traditional wisdom.

Ingredients

• 2 cups coconut milk (or almond, oat, soy milk)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 pinch of ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• Optional: Green cardamom, nutmeg, or other spices for variation

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine all ingredients over medium heat.
2. Whisk frequently until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and pour into a mug.
4. Enjoy immediately, stirring occasionally to prevent settling.

This soothing drink combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger with the creamy richness of coconut milk, creating a delicious and health-boosting beverage.

Citations

1. Harvard Health Publishing. (n.d.). Turmeric benefits: A look at the evidence. Retrieved January 29, 2025.
2. Zoi V, Galani V, Lianos GD, Voulgaris S, Kyritsis AP, Alexiou GA. The Role of Curcumin in Cancer Treatment. Biomedicines. 2021 Aug 26;9(9):1086. doi:10.3390/biomedicines9091086.
3. Hewlings, S. J., & Kalman, D. S. (2017). Curcumin: A review of its effects on human health. Foods, 6(10), 92. doi:10.3390/foods6100092.

Written By Brooke Lounsbury