What Is Turmeric?
Turmeric is the root of the Curcuma longa plant, a member of the Ginger family, which grows in India and other Southeast Asian countries. Not only does Turmeric give Indian curries their distinctive yellow colouring but it’s also been used as a ‘medicine’ for over 4,000 years to treat a variety of conditions.
Why Is Turmeric Beneficial In Treating Depression?
- Proven natural antidepressant
- Reverses the development of depression
- Powerful natural anti-inflammatory
Studies show Curcumin (a compound present in Turmeric) is as effective in treating Major Depressive Disorder, as taking Fluoxetine (Prozac).[1
][2]
The natural compound Curcumin has the ability to not only, reverse the development of depression but also influences several mechanisms in the body.
In particular, it’s a powerful natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Why are the anti-inflammatory properties so important when attempting to alleviate depression?
Scientists have found that people with depression have greater inflammation and oxidative stress in their system, which can affect all major organs of the body, including the brain.[3]
In addition, chronic inflammation can lead to a decrease in the levels of serotonin and dopamine in our brain.
So, Turmeric works to combat depression from all angles and makes it top on the list of foods that fight depression.
Other Health-Enhancing Benefits of Turmeric & Curcumin
- Decreases Risk of Heart Disease
- Helps Prevent Onset of Alzheimer’s
- Antioxidant / Anti-Ageing / Age Reversing
- Boosts Your Immune System
- Natural Antidepressant
- Reduces Stress
- Natural Anti-inflammatory
- Helps Fight Various Cancers
Other Facts About Turmeric
- Turmeric contains approximately 2% of Curcumin per weight. (For example: 1gram (1/2 teaspoon) of powdered turmeric root contains approx. 20 milligrams of Curcumin)
- Curcumin can also be taken in the more potent form of supplements.
- For optimal results, it’s highly beneficial to take turmeric with black pepper and/or fats, such as; milk. (Both substances increase the absorption of Turmeric/Curcumin into our system so we’re able to gain health-giving benefits faster!)
- Turmeric stains! So, be sure to keep turmeric root/powder away from your favourite kitchen towels and if you don’t want to get your hands and nails temporarily stained orange, simply wear gloves when cutting/peeling the fresh turmeric root.
- Turmeric has contraindications with certain medications. Therefore, it’s strongly advised to consult your doctor before taking turmeric or curcumin supplements.
- Always consult your doctor or health professional (especially if you’re pregnant or have an existing health condition) BEFORE changing your diet, taking supplements or adjusting medications.
- The information provided is for informational purposes only.
Discover Easy Ways To Include More Turmeric Into Your Diet
Simply click the button below to discover how easy it is to incorporate more Turmeric and all it’s natural antidepressant qualities into your daily diet.
Check Out Turmeric Recipes For Depression >>>
RELEVANT STUDIES:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26066335
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23832433
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278584613002121
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26610378
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