Turmeric is a spice that is commonly found in all Indian households. But did you know this wonderful spice has many health benefits? Yes! Turmeric belongs to the ginger family and is a flowering plant with anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidants (1). In addition, Curcumin is the bioactive compound that gives the yellow colour of Turmeric.

This article will discuss the potential Turmeric health benefits, possible side effects, and nutrition.

What are Curcumin and Turmeric?

The yellow colour of many of our curries comes from the spice called Turmeric. It has been considered a spice and medicinal herb for thousands of years in India. Turmeric contains compounds with medicinal properties making it an ingredient in many traditional treatments, which is now backed up by science (2).

Turmeric is made up of curcuminoids and curcumin compounds in the most important one. Turmeric’s principal active ingredient is Curcumin, a potent antioxidant and powerful anti-inflammatory effect.

Nutritional value of Turmeric:

The nutritional value of one tbsp of turmeric powder is as follows:

• Calories – 29.
• Protein – 0.91grams.
• Fat – 0.31 grams.
• Carbohydrates – 6.31 grams.
• Fiber – 2.1 grams.
• Sugar – 0.3 grams.
• Manganese – 26%DV.
• Iron – 16% DV.
• Potassium – 5% DV.
• Vitamin C – 3% DV.

Health Benefits of Turmeric:

We have presented you with the list of benefits of Turmeric that can be incorporated into your diet easily.

1. Turmeric has Powerful Antiviral Properties:

According to research, Turmeric has a natural compound called Curcumin with antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that help eliminate certain viruses from your body. In addition, these properties of Turmeric help reduce the growth of many disease-causing bacteria helping you fight several infections (3)(4).