Turmeric Shields The Body In More Ways Than One

Turmeric has long been established in medicine since 4500 BCE and has been added in food since at least 2500 BCE. It is now being shown in studies that curcumin, which is the component in turmeric, results in antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotective mechanisms, skin elasticity benefits, improvements in gut microbiome, improvements to the nervous system, and potentially may serve as a radioprotective agent.

Talk about a champion of food additives! During a recent 2023 study, curcumin supplements were noted to reduce levels of inflammatory markers and improve TAC, which measures how antioxidants in the body neutralize free radicals introduced to it. The study also noted a reduction in MDA levels, which are related to oxidative stress and lead to cell damage. It was also stated SOD activity increased, which involves cellular components being oxidized through the power of antioxidants. SOD activity is correlated with reduction in oxidative stress, so increases in SOD activity are remarkable!

Not only does curcumin protect our cells, it protects our brain and nervous system. A study in 2025 noted how curcumin reduced amyloid plaque formation which is linked to Alzheimer's. Plaque formation between neurons are the main harmful component in developing Alzheimer’s, so any countermeasures which reduce plaque formation are significant. The study also noted a change in glial cell activity that reduced neuroinflammation and promoted a neuroprotective environment. Another study involving curcumin delivery via nanomedicine noted the potential therapeutic outcomes for patients with CNS disorders.

Curcumin also affects our gut. Specifically, it can positively affect gut composition and function. While more studies are required, it still holds promise as noted from this recent 2025 study.

Topical application of curcumin may also improve the skin. A recent 2025 study noted positive effects for the skin. Application penetrated the dermis, which is right below the skin, and resulted in skin retention after 24 hours of the initial application.

Lastly, curcumin may serve as a radioprotective agent! A recent 2025 study involving mice noted how the intake of curcumin interacted with a lethal dose of irradiation. Survival rate increased by 50% when there was oral administration prior to lethal radiation exposure. Curcumin also immensely affected the small intestine. For the epithelial tissue in the small intestine, which serves as the lining for organs and glands, there was a reduction in damage. Additionally there was a reduction in DNA damage and overall cell damage. While this study is still early, it shows that there is a positive correlation between oral ingestion of curcumin and protection against irradiation effects.

Turmeric, which harbors this miracle, can be taken orally in a multitude of ways. It is added in flavorful dishes and beverages. Haldi Doodh can be made with full fat milk, sweetener, pepper, and additives like cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom. Nasi Kuning includes pandan leaves, lemongrass stalk, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves in rice. Khao Mok Gai includes chicken and lemongrass powder in rice. Khao Pad Kamin includes chilies, carrots, and sugar in rice along with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and scallions for a garnish. Machboos or Kabsa includes chicken or lamb along with dry limes, cinnamon, bay leaves, cardamom, and peppercorn in rice. Mì Quảng is a noodle dish that can include pork belly, shrimp, and quail eggs. Sfouf is a dessert that includes semolina. There are various tasty stews and meats with turmeric added such as Kari Ayam, Quwarmah Al Dajaj, Katsukare, Curry Goat, Kaeng Kari, Sayur Lemak, Lamb Korma, and Chanasan Makh just to name a few.

Turmeric is impactful in a dish and in our health charts. Overall, incorporating more turmeric in one’s diet can lead to a longer and more fulfilling life.