Turmeric and Heart Health

Turmeric is an amazing spice that has been around for centuries. Archaeologists have discovered traces of turmeric in pots that date as far back to 2500 BC. However, it wasn’t until 500 B.C. that it began to emerge as an important medicine in Ayurvedic healing. Turmeric has proven to be useful in everything from purifying the blood, improving respiratory issues, to balancing blood sugar levels, but it is the inflammation fighting compounds that has gotten researchers attention. Research has shown that curcumin may help thin the blood, reduce cholesterol, and prevent the narrowing of arteries.

Turmeric comes from the root of the curcuma longa plant, which is a perennial in the ginger family. Curcumin is its major active ingredient and gives turmeric its yellowish color. It is in the curcumin that the health benefits lie.  Curcumin is known for its antioxidant properties, which help to protect the body from free radicals and oxidative stress. Too much oxidative stress leads to inflammation, and inflammation has been known to lead to heart attacks and strokes.

One of the drawbacks of turmeric is that it is poorly absorbed into the body, so it is important that when you are cooking with turmeric, that you add black pepper into the mix. Black pepper contains the bioactive compound piperine, which is the active component found in chili powder and cayenne pepper. Piperine assists in the absorption of turmeric and may enhance its affects.

Supplements are another avenue that can pursued if you are interested in the heart healthy benefits that turmeric offers. As always, speak to your physician first before adding any supplements to your regimen.

Golden Milk Recipe with Turmeric and Almond Milk

Ingredients:

2 cups almond milk

1 tsp dried turmeric powder

1 -inch fresh ginger root, washed and grated

1 teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cardamom seeds

½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

½ to 1 tablespoon coconut oil

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or honey

Directions:

1. Combine almond milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, cardamom, vanilla extract, and coconut oil in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove from heat. Stir and serve with maple syrup or honey.