Australia’s multicultural society has led to the incorporation of various herbs and spices from different cultures into the country’s culinary landscape. Turmeric is no exception, with its use dating back to early Australian history as a spice for cooking and a medicinal herb. Today, turmeric in Australia is widely recognised for its anti-inflammatory properties and has become a popular natural remedy for various health problems. This article will delve into the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric and how you can easily incorporate it into your diet in Australia to help reduce inflammation and promote overall wellness.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a root spice that belongs to the ginger family, and it is commonly used in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine to add flavour and colour to dishes. Turmeric gives curry its distinctive yellow colour and has a warm, slightly bitter taste.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin has been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, which can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Turmeric
The human body undergoes inflammation as a natural response to injury or infection, but when it persists over a prolonged period, it can result in several health complications, such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Curcumin has been proven to possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that operate by inhibiting the synthesis of cytokines and enzymes like COX-2 and LOX that promote inflammation.
Benefits of Turmeric
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric has many other health benefits. Here are some of the most notable:
- May Improve Brain Function – Curcumin has been shown to increase levels of a brain hormone called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), improving brain function and reducing the risks of diseases like Alzheimer’s.
- May Lower the Risk of Heart Disease – Curcumin has been shown to improve the endothelium’s function and the blood vessels lining. This can help lower the risk of heart disease.
- May Prevent Cancer – Some studies have found that curcumin can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and may help prevent cancer development.
- May Reduce the Risk of Diabetes – Curcumin has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help lower blood sugar levels and the risk of diabetes.
Incorporating Turmeric into Your Diet
There are many ways to incorporate turmeric into your diet.
- Add it to Curries – Turmeric is a key ingredient in many curries. Add a teaspoon to your favourite curry recipe for extra flavour and health benefits.
- Use it in Soups and Stews – Turmeric can be added to soups and stews for flavour and colour. It pairs well with lentils, chickpeas, and other legumes.
- Make Golden Milk – Golden milk is a traditional Ayurvedic drink mixing turmeric with milk and spices like ginger and cinnamon. It is a delicious and comforting drink that can be enjoyed before bed.
- Use it in Smoothies – Turmeric can also be added to smoothies to boost anti-inflammatory power. Try blending turmeric with pineapple, ginger, and coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Turmeric is a versatile and powerful spice used for centuries for its medicinal properties. You can easily get Turmeric in Australia and make it a valuable addition to any diet, especially if you suffer from chronic inflammation. By incorporating turmeric into your diet, you can enjoy its health benefits and add some flavorful and colourful twists to your meals.
