Turmeric

Common Names:

Turmeric is commonly known as “Indian saffron” or “golden spice” due to its deep yellow-orange color. In various languages, it has different names; for instance, it’s known as “Haldi” in Hindi, “Kurkum” in Arabic, and “Haridra” in Sanskrit.

The worldwide market for turmeric was roughly calculated to be around 1.7 million metric tons in the year 2017.

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Binomial Name:

Curcuma longa

Family:

Turmeric belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, which is also known as the ginger family. This family includes many other well-known spices and medicinal plants, such as: Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), Galangal (Alpinia galanga) and Myoga (Zingiber mioga).

Used Plant Parts:

The most commonly used part of the turmeric plant is the rhizome, or the root-like subterranean stem. It’s usually boiled, dried, and then ground into a powder, which is used as a spice and coloring agent in many cuisines, as well as for its medicinal properties.

Additionally, turmeric leaves are sometimes used in cooking, especially in some Southeast Asian cuisines.

Origin and Distribution:

• Turmeric boasts a rich history that intertwines with the cultural and agricultural tapestry of several ancient civilizations. Its origin is believed to be the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, with India still being the largest producer and consumer of this vibrant spice. The domestication of turmeric is traced back to ancient times, possibly around 4000 years ago, in South Asia. It was not just a culinary staple but also held significant cultural and medicinal value in various Asian societies.
• The spread of turmeric can be attributed to extensive trade routes and cultural exchanges. By the medieval period, it had reached China, East Africa, and West Africa, eventually making its way to Jamaica in the 18th century. This wide distribution is a testament to its adaptability and importance in various cultures.
• In terms of habitat, Curcuma longa thrives in a specific set of environmental conditions. It requires a warm and humid climate, typical of tropical regions. Turmeric grows best in well-drained, fertile soils, preferably with a slight acidic to neutral pH. It’s commonly found in regions with a considerable amount of annual rainfall, as it needs moist soil conditions, but not waterlogged, for optimum growth.
• The plant is characterized by its beautiful, funnel-shaped, and highly fragrant flowers, but it’s the rhizomes, or underground stems, that are most prized. These rhizomes are boiled, dried, and then ground into the yellow powder widely recognized as turmeric spice. Its distinct color, flavor, and medicinal properties have made it a cornerstone in culinary and healing traditions across the world.
• Turmeric’s journey from a local South Asian plant to a globally recognized spice is a fascinating story of cultural interchange and the spread of botanical knowledge across continents.

Botanical Description:

• Turmeric, botanically known as Curcuma longa, is a perennial herbaceous plant that has carved a niche for itself in both the culinary and medicinal worlds. It belongs to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, and is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. The plant is distinctive for its eye-catching and aromatic qualities, along with its deep cultural and historical significance.
• The most striking feature of Curcuma longa is its rhizome, the underground stem from which the plant grows. These rhizomes are thick and fleshy, with a bright orange-yellow interior that’s rich in bioactive compounds, particularly curcumin.
  When dried and ground, they produce the vibrant yellow turmeric powder familiar in kitchens worldwide.
• Above the ground, turmeric plants can reach up to about 1 meter (3 feet) in height. They bear large, elongated leaves that are a lush green, with a slightly glossy appearance and a pointed tip. The leaves emanate directly from the stem, creating a tidy, compact appearance.
• The flowers of turmeric are another noteworthy aspect. They emerge in spikes, rising directly from the center of the leaf tufts. These spikes are densely packed with flowers that range in color from white to pink. However, the flowers are often overshadowed by the plant’s more famous rhizomes and are less commonly seen, as turmeric is typically harvested before it blooms.
• Turmeric’s growth cycle starts in the spring. It requires a warm, humid climate and thrives best in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slight acidic to neutral pH. It’s sensitive to frost and prolonged periods of dry weather.

For centuries, turmeric has found its use in cosmetic products; it continues to be a key ingredient in items like skin creams and soaps.

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Active Ingredients and Mechanism of Action:

• Turmeric is not just a culinary delight but also a reservoir of bioactive compounds, substances that have a biological effect on the body, which contribute to its numerous health benefits. The most prominent of these compounds is curcumin, known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Curcumin is the primary active component in turmeric, giving the spice its characteristic yellow color. It belongs to a group of compounds called curcuminoids. Despite its low concentration in turmeric (about 3% by weight), curcumin has been the subject of extensive scientific research due to its significant therapeutic potential.
• The mechanism of action of curcumin is complex and multifaceted. It interacts with various molecular targets in the body, influencing numerous physiological processes.
  One key aspect is its anti-inflammatory action. Inflammation is a natural bodily response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to various diseases.
  Curcumin helps inhibit the activity of molecules like NF-kB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells), a protein complex that plays a crucial role in regulating the immune response to infection. By suppressing this complex, curcumin can reduce inflammation.
• Additionally, curcumin is a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. Curcumin neutralizes free radicals due to its chemical structure and also boosts the activity of the body’s own antioxidant enzymes.
• Apart from these, curcumin has also been shown to influence several signaling pathways (a series of chemical reactions within a cell that are initiated by a stimulus) involved in cell growth, survival, and death. This has implications in areas like cancer research, where curcumin is being studied for its potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and development.
• However, it’s important to note that curcumin’s bioavailability (the rate and extent to which a substance is absorbed and used by the body) is relatively low. This means that when consumed, only a small percentage is actually absorbed into the bloodstream. To enhance its bioavailability, it is often combined with other substances like piperine, found in black pepper.

Uses in Traditional Medicine

• In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, turmeric has been used for over 4,000 years. It is considered a powerful purifier and is used to support digestion, improve skin conditions, and as an anti-inflammatory agent.
  Ayurvedic texts recommend turmeric for conditions like respiratory problems, liver disorders, and to heal wounds or bruises. It’s also used in Ayurvedic rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing purity, prosperity, and fertility.
• In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), turmeric, known as Jiang Huang, has been used for at least 1,000 years. In TCM, it’s believed to invigorate the blood and unblock meridians – the pathways through which life energy flows – thereby alleviating pain, especially in conditions like menstrual discomfort or injuries.
  Turmeric is also used for its warming properties and to treat liver and gallbladder problems.
• In Indonesian traditional medicine, known as Jamu, turmeric is a key ingredient.
  It’s used in a drink called Jamu Kunyit, a mixture of turmeric and other herbs, believed to cleanse the blood and improve liver function. This turmeric-based concoction is a popular remedy for various skin conditions and for boosting overall health.
• In Thai traditional medicine, turmeric is used both internally and externally. Internally, it is used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, especially for stomach and liver ailments. Externally, it’s applied to the skin for its antiseptic properties, often used to treat wounds and skin diseases.
• In the Middle East, turmeric has been used in herbal medicine primarily for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It’s a common ingredient in remedies for digestive problems, skin conditions, and to strengthen the immune system.

Conventional Medicinal Uses

Turmeric, especially its active component curcumin, has sparked considerable interest in the field of conventional medicine, thanks to its potential therapeutic benefits.

Scientific research, largely in the form of preclinical studies and some human trials, has begun to validate some of the medicinal uses of turmeric known in traditional medicine for centuries.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties:

One of the most well-studied aspects of curcumin is its anti-inflammatory potential. Inflammation is a natural body response but can contribute to various chronic diseases when it becomes long-term.

Traditionally in India, turmeric has been a go-to remedy for ailments related to the skin, the upper respiratory tract, joints, and the digestive system.

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Curcumin has been shown to inhibit key molecules involved in inflammation, such as cytokines and enzymes like cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). A review[1] by Menon and Sudheer (2007) in the “Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology” journal highlights this property, suggesting curcumin’s potential in treating chronic inflammatory diseases.

Cancer Research:

There is also growing interest in curcumin’s anti-cancer properties.

Studies[2] have shown that it can affect cancer growth, development, and spread at the molecular level (Aggarwal et al., 2003, “Anticancer Research”). Curcumin has been found to interfere with the growth of cancerous cells and even inhibit the growth of tumors in animal models.

Neuroprotective Effects:

Curcumin’s potential role in neurodegenerative diseases has been explored, with a focus on Alzheimer’s disease. Studies[3] suggest that curcumin might help clear the amyloid plaques found in Alzheimer’s brains (Reddy et al., 2018, “Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease”).

Though these findings are preliminary, they open doors for future research in human trials.

Cardiovascular Health:

Curcumin’s impact on heart health has also been investigated. A study[4] published in the “Nutrition Research” journal (Wongcharoen et al., 2009) demonstrated that curcumin could improve endothelial function, which is vital for cardiovascular health.

Gastrointestinal Treatments:

Turmeric has been used traditionally for gastrointestinal issues, and modern research has begun to understand why. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help in treating conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as per a study [5]in the “Digestive Diseases and Sciences” journal (Holt et al., 2005).

Limitations and Future Research:

Despite these promising findings, it’s important to note the limitations of current research. Many studies use high doses of curcumin, more than what can be consumed in the diet.

Additionally, curcumin has low bioavailability, meaning it’s not easily absorbed by the body. More research, especially large-scale human clinical trials, is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential and to develop effective delivery methods.

Recommended Dosages

Determining the recommended dose of Turmeric for adults and children involves consideration of its active component, curcumin.

It’s important to note that while turmeric is widely used as a food ingredient, when taken as a supplement for health purposes, dosage recommendations can vary.

• For Adults: The World Health Organization (WHO) has set[6] the acceptable dietary intake of curcumin at up to 3 mg/kg body weight per day.
  Clinical trials often use higher doses, ranging from 500 to 2,000 mg of curcumin per day, usually in the form of standardized supplements. For instance, a study [7]published in the “Journal of Nutrition” found that doses up to 8,000 mg per day of curcumin were not associated with serious adverse effects in humans.
  However, most studies suggest a more moderate daily dose of 500–2,000 mg of turmeric extract, providing about 60–200 mg of curcumin.
• For Children: The appropriate dose for children is less clear due to the lack of extensive research in this demographic. Generally, turmeric is considered safe when used as a spice in food for children. However, for therapeutic purposes or as a supplement, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider before administering turmeric or curcumin to children.
• Bioavailability Considerations: One challenge with curcumin is its low bioavailability. Therefore, it’s often combined with other substances like piperine, found in black pepper, to enhance absorption.

Side Effects, Interactions, and Safety:

Turmeric celebrated for its medicinal properties, is generally considered safe when consumed in food. However, when taken in large doses or as a supplement, it may have potential side effects and interactions with certain medications.

Turmeric plays a significant role in Haldi ceremonies, a traditional aspect of Hindu and South Asian Muslim nuptials, where it is used to enhance the skin’s appearance before the wedding.

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Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses of turmeric or curcumin can cause digestive discomfort, such as acid reflux, diarrhea, and bloating. This is more likely with supplements than with turmeric used in cooking.
• Risk of Bleeding: Turmeric can slow blood clotting due to its antiplatelet (blood-thinning) properties. While beneficial in some contexts, this can be a concern for individuals with bleeding disorders or those undergoing surgery.
• Impact on Gallbladder and Liver: People with gallbladder disease should be cautious, as turmeric can exacerbate gallbladder problems. Though rare, excessive consumption may also affect liver function.
• Lower Blood Sugar Levels: Turmeric may lower blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for many but can pose a risk for individuals with diabetes, especially when combined with diabetes medications.
• Iron Absorption: High amounts of turmeric might interfere with the absorption of iron, potentially leading to iron deficiency in susceptible individuals.

Drug Interactions:

• Blood-Thinning Medications: Due to its blood-thinning effects, turmeric can interact with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications like warfarin, clopidogrel, and aspirin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Diabetes Medications: Since turmeric can lower blood sugar, it may enhance the effects of diabetes drugs, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Acid-Reducing Drugs: Turmeric may interfere with the action of acid-reducing drugs, such as omeprazole, ranitidine, and cimetidine, altering their effectiveness.
• Certain Chemotherapy Drugs: There is some evidence that turmeric can interact with certain chemotherapy drugs, affecting how they work in the body.

Precautions and Recommendations:

• The use of turmeric supplements should be approached with caution, especially in high doses or for prolonged periods.
• Individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medication should consult a healthcare professional before starting turmeric supplements.
• It is generally safer to consume turmeric as a culinary spice than in supplement form due to the lower concentrations of active compounds.

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