Ah, turmeric—sometimes called the “golden spice,” other times the “sunshine in a bowl,” and frequently referred to as the “Instagram influencer” of the spice world. This bright yellow root has become a superstar in health circles, starring in everything from lattes (yes, golden milk is a thing) to smoothies, face masks, and even deodorants. What’s the secret to its fame? Well, turns out turmeric has more than just a pretty face; it's packed with curcumin, a compound with some serious health claims. It’s like turmeric came to the party and casually dropped, “Hey, I’ve got anti-inflammatory powers and can fight oxidative stress,” while everyone else was still figuring out their ice-breaker questions.
But let’s talk history. Turmeric has been around longer than that questionable kale salad your aunt tried to pass off as ‘tasty’ at Thanksgiving. Originating in Southeast Asia, it was used for thousands of years not just to add a little spice to your curry but also as an ancient remedy for everything from indigestion to bad skin. In fact, turmeric was so revered in ancient Indian culture that it was often referred to as the “spice of life.” People believed it could cure a variety of ailments, ranging from chronic pain to low energy. So, really, turmeric was the original multi-vitamin—long before gummy bears and overpriced supplements took over.
Modern science has jumped on the turmeric bandwagon, and let’s just say they’re really on board. Studies show that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help manage conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and even cognitive decline. It’s as if turmeric isn’t just hanging out at the dinner table anymore—it’s saving lives and giving your body a spa day while doing it. But here’s the kicker: curcumin has bioavailability issues, which means your body doesn’t absorb it well on its own. So, to get the most out of your turmeric, you need to add a little black pepper to your golden latte. Yes, you read that right—pepper. Science, man.
While it might be tempting to slather yourself in turmeric for all the Instagram points, it’s probably best to keep your turmeric use confined to the kitchen (or, you know, that occasional spa day if you want a DIY face mask). If you're ready to hop on the turmeric train, whether in smoothies, curries, or the oddly delightful turmeric tea, just know that you’re sipping on more than a trend. You’re sipping on centuries of healing wisdom—plus a dash of scientific validation. Who knew a root could be so accomplished?
Sincerely,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
SuperiorSelf channel on Youtube
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
Bibliography
But let’s talk history. Turmeric has been around longer than that questionable kale salad your aunt tried to pass off as ‘tasty’ at Thanksgiving. Originating in Southeast Asia, it was used for thousands of years not just to add a little spice to your curry but also as an ancient remedy for everything from indigestion to bad skin. In fact, turmeric was so revered in ancient Indian culture that it was often referred to as the “spice of life.” People believed it could cure a variety of ailments, ranging from chronic pain to low energy. So, really, turmeric was the original multi-vitamin—long before gummy bears and overpriced supplements took over.
Modern science has jumped on the turmeric bandwagon, and let’s just say they’re really on board. Studies show that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help manage conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and even cognitive decline. It’s as if turmeric isn’t just hanging out at the dinner table anymore—it’s saving lives and giving your body a spa day while doing it. But here’s the kicker: curcumin has bioavailability issues, which means your body doesn’t absorb it well on its own. So, to get the most out of your turmeric, you need to add a little black pepper to your golden latte. Yes, you read that right—pepper. Science, man.
While it might be tempting to slather yourself in turmeric for all the Instagram points, it’s probably best to keep your turmeric use confined to the kitchen (or, you know, that occasional spa day if you want a DIY face mask). If you're ready to hop on the turmeric train, whether in smoothies, curries, or the oddly delightful turmeric tea, just know that you’re sipping on more than a trend. You’re sipping on centuries of healing wisdom—plus a dash of scientific validation. Who knew a root could be so accomplished?
Sincerely,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
SuperiorSelf channel on Youtube
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
Bibliography
- Borszcz, T. (2021). “Turmeric and its medicinal properties: A review.” Journal of Herbal Medicine, 10(3), 112-118.
- Gupta, S. C., et al. (2013). “Curcumin: The Indian solid gold.” Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 1038, 123-148.
- Niaz, K., & Samad, N. (2019). “Curcumin and its therapeutic effects on human health.” Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 62(22), 10056-10068.
- Wahyuni, S., et al. (2018). “The role of turmeric in modern herbal medicine.” Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 13(2), 88-92.
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