Nature & Wellness #8: Turmeric

What is turmeric? Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that is derived from the underground stems, or rhizomes, of the Curcuma longa plant. The plant is part of the ginger family and is grown in warm climates around the world. Turmeric offers numerous health benefits for both humans and animals, primarily due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which are derived from its active compound, curcumin. These benefits range from pain relief and improve joint health to digestive support and potential caner protection. It can be taken as a supplement or consumed in food. Turmeric’s antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage caused by free radical, potentially reducing pain and promoting healing.

Turmeric offers various digestive health benefits for both humans and animals. It enhances gut microbiome diversity, supports the intestinal barrier, and may help reduce inflammation and pain in the digestive tract. For humans, turmeric may also stimulate bile production, siding in digestion and potentially relieving bloating. It has shown potential for brain health in both humans and animals.

Curcumin may help protect against neuronal damage, stimulate brain stem cell proliferation, and promote neurogenesis (growth of new neurons), which can be beneficial for cognitive function and brain health. Curcumin may reduce the accumulation of amyloid plaques, slow neuronal degradation, and improve overall memory in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

Turmeric can help with skin conditions like Queensland Itch in horses and atopic dermatitis in dogs, addressing skin allergies and infections. For humans it helps prevent skin cells from clumping together and clogging pores which can lead to acne. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine to treat conditions.