Turmeric instead of Ibuprofen

Let’s talk about this superstar

Turmeric is a real wonder weapon when it comes to diseases but let’s mention the most obvious thing first: it’s beautifully yellow. That’s why it is used for artificial coloring. Did you know that curry is just yellow because of turmeric? Ok, apparently there are more important things than the color…

Turmeric: Effect

The active substance is called curcumin. It is such a weapon, it can do a lot of the things that drugs are supposed to do:

• fighting cancer and dementia
• acts as an antioxidant
• anti-inflammatory

The best results are seen when you work with the whole root instead of the powder. The root also contains essential oils, which help with the absorption and enhance the effect.

By the way, studies have shown, that curcumin can have the same effects like Ibuprofen and Paracetamol. Integrating turmeric into your daily life might be the better way to fight diseases, but it’s important to be steady here. Let’s talk about the dose.

If you want to read even more about turmeric, check out these information (and please have a look at the great graphic which is so pintrest-worthy)!

Dosage

… this sounds like a supplement. And in fact, you can buy turmeric or just the curcumin in capsules. I haven’t tried it yet, that’s why I cannot recommend a brand but it seems to be a good option if you want to make sure to have all the benefits.

I already told you that the root is better than the powder. Nevertheless I use the powder – for practical reasons.

If you use turmeric as a spice, it is hardly possible to overdose. If you prefer the capsules 3 grams a day should be enough.

It is really important to pay attention to the quality when buying turmeric. Organic is a must. The bioavailability is a huge factor here. Turmeric contains just 2-7 % curcumin. Consequently, it’s not that easy for us to eat enough turmeric as long as you don’t eat Indian food every day. Quality over quantity!

If you use turmeric as a spice, you can add 0.5 – 1 g to each meal, spread over three meals.
You can enhance the resorption of turmeric significantly by adding black pepper and some source of fat.

How I Integrate Turmeric

I was sick and what is a staple for us sick kids? Warm milk with honey! (Btw if you haven’t read my blogpost on how to regain your health again after a cold, you can check it out here) I also add cinnamon and – surprise- turmeric whenever I need this wonder weapon. Of course, I don’t go for a whole gram.
In general with turmeric, I trust my stomach instead of the scale. I just add as much as I feel like.

Besides cider vinegar, ginger and honey, I also love to add some turmeric in my green smoothies.

Furthermore, turmeric tastes great with rice or vegetables and of course with almost every Indian dish.

Just one more thing: If you struggle with gaining weight, you  might love this: Turmeric stimulates the production of gastric acids. The feeling of fullness will disappear faster and there’s room for some more food!

So, that’s it for that short and sweet article about turmeric. If you have any questions or ideas, please leave them in the comments down below.
Have a nice day and see you soon!
Lee-Anne <3