What are turmeric and curcumin?

Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color. It has been used in India for thousands of years as both a spice and medicinal herb. Turmeric contains compounds with medicinal properties.

These compounds are called curcuminoids. The most important one is curcumin, which is the main active ingredient in turmeric.

Here are the top 10 evidence-based health benefits of turmeric and curcumin.

1. Turmeric contains bioactive compounds with medicinal properties
2. Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory compound
3. Turmeric can increase the antioxidant capacity of the body
4. Curcumin can boost brain-derived neurotrophic factor
5. Curcumin may lower your risk of heart disease
6. Turmeric may help prevent cancer
7. Curcumin may be useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease
8. Arthritis patients respond well to curcumin supplements
9. Curcumin has benefits against depression
10. Curcumin may help delay aging and fight age-related chronic diseases