Turmeric is a spice traditionally used in Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Moreover, it is the main ingredient in curries, which is what gives it that beautiful golden yellow colour. The reason for its health effects is a compound in turmeric called curcumin.
Turmeric vs Curcumin: What’s the difference?
To put it simply, Curcumin is the main active ingredient in Turmeric. Typically, turmeric root contains about 2 to 5% curcumin.
This is why we used curcumin in Cynovial instead of powdered turmeric root because large amounts of turmeric would have to be consumed in order to get a beneficial amount of curcumin.
Turmeric is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant. Besides, it benefits one’s brain and heart. Here’s more in-depth information on the benefits of Curcumin for your joints and overall health.
1. Reduces inflammation.
Curcumin is a strong anti-inflammatory compound. It is so potent that the anti-inflammatory benefits match some anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen but without the side effects.
In addition, curcumin is a strong antioxidant, meaning that it can protect our cells against damage caused by free radicals.
Studies that are done on people with osteoarthritis have shown that they experienced significant improvements in pain and physical function after taking curcumin supplements.
2. Boosts brain health.
Curcumin aids in boosting the activity of your body's own antioxidant enzymes. It also boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in your brain.
This means that turmeric could help to boost the mood and memory of older adults, leading to a lowered risk of depression and Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Fights heart disease.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide.
Concerning heart health, curcumin has beneficial effects on several factors known to play a role in preventing a lethal heart disease called atherosclerosis, by reducing plaque build-up in your arteries. Curcumin is known to increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in your body.
Bonus tip: Consume Cynovial supplement with black pepper as this will help to improve the absorption of curcumin in your body.
