Turmeric in TCM

 

Turmeric: The Golden Treasure of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Modern Science

Turmeric, also known as Curcuma longa , is a deep yellow root that has been prized for thousands of years in both cooking and medicine. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), turmeric is used to improve the flow of Qi energy and support liver health. Modern science provides ample evidence of its health potential.

THE USE OF TURMERIC IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

In TCM, turmeric (Jiang Huang, 姜黄) is attributed with the following properties:

Element : Associated with the element of Fire.

Taste and nature : Bitter, spicy, warm.

Target organs : Liver, spleen and stomach.

Key Applications:

Improving Qi and Blood Circulation : Turmeric is used to treat Qi stagnation, which may manifest as abdominal pain, indigestion, or muscle tension.

Pain Relief : Thanks to its congestion-busting properties, turmeric helps in cases of menstrual pain and arthritis.

Liver Support : In TCM, the liver is responsible for emotional balance. Turmeric supports its function and is helpful in reducing stress and counteracting stagnation.

Treating inflammation : When combined with other herbs, turmeric supports anti-inflammatory processes in the body.

MODERN SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE ON THE EFFECTS OF TURMERIC

The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin , which has been implicated in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. Here are some key studies:

1. Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology found that curcumin inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. This is particularly important in treating inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis【1】.

2. Impact on brain health

Curcumin improves neurogenesis and has neuroprotective effects. Research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology suggests that regular use of curcumin improves memory and concentration in older people【2】.

3. Support for the cardiovascular system

According to a review in the Nutrition Journal , curcumin improves vascular endothelial function, which lowers the risk of hypertension and atherosclerosis【3】.

4. Application in cancer treatment

Preclinical studies indicate that curcumin inhibits cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis, especially in breast and colon cancer【4】.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT TURMERIC

Natural dye : Turmeric is used as a dye in the food industry, thanks to its intense color.

Golden Milk : A popular Ayurvedic drink (Golden Milk) with milk and turmeric is gaining popularity as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Curcumin absorption : To increase the absorption of curcumin, it is recommended to consume it with fat and piperine (contained in black pepper).

HOW TO INTRODUCE TURMERIC INTO YOUR DAILY LIFE?

Food addition : Turmeric goes great with curry, soups and smoothies.

Infusions and teas : Turmeric with ginger and honey creates an aromatic tea with warming properties.

Dietary supplements : When choosing supplements, it is worth checking whether they contain piperine, which increases the bioavailability of curcumin.

SUMMARY

Turmeric is not just a spice, but also a versatile medicine in TCM and an effective supplement with scientifically proven effects. Its ability to support liver health, reduce inflammation and improve brain function makes it an invaluable part of a healthy diet.

Bibliography:

Aggarwal, B.B., et al. (2013). "Targeting inflammation with curcumin: a therapeutic strategy." Journal of Clinical Immunology.

Small, G. W., et al. (2018). "Memory and Brain Effects of Curcumin in Alzheimer's Disease." Journal of Psychopharmacology.

Gupta, S.C., et al. (2012). "Curcumin and endothelial function: A review." Nutrition Journal.

Goel, A., et al. (2008). "Curcumin as a chemopreventive agent in cancer." Cancer Letters.

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