Turmeric is a plant with many health benefits. But it can also have side effects, hence precautions to be aware of.
Turmeric is a plant from the Zingiberaceae family, called “turmeric”because it has the same coloring properties as saffron. It is used as a spice but also for its many medicinal properties. Turmeric is native to South Asia. Its primary use is in powder but also in infusion or decoction. It is the underground part of the plant called “rhizome powder” which is used to flavor exotic preparations and recognized for its countless benefits.
Curcumin at the origin of its health benefits
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric powder and an antioxidant par excellence, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic action, for treating skin diseases when used externally, in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases but also for digestive action. (protection of the gastric mucosa). Its consumption would relieve an irritable bowel. Turmeric activates serotonin involved in regulating moods. Combined with piperine (alkaloid contained in pepper or chili pepper), curcumin (active ingredient in turmeric) would have its bioavailability potentiated! It is the same with oil or fatty fish (fats increase its absorption). It is also a source of iron, manganese, zinc, copper…
Calories
100 grams of turmeric powder contains 291 calories.
Nutritional values
| NUTRIENTS | TURMERIC POWDER: CONTENT PER 100 G |
|---|---|
| Proteins | 9.68g |
| Carbohydrates | 44.4g |
| – including sugars | 3.21g |
| – including dietary fiber | 22.7g |
| Lipids | 3.25g |
| – including cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| – of which saturated fatty acids | 1.84g |
| – of which monounsaturated fatty acids | 0.45g |
| – of which polyunsaturated fatty acids | 0.76g |
| Water | 12.9g |
What contraindications?
- In people suffering from digestive ulcers such as stomach ulcers, turmeric can have an irritating effect on the mucous membranes only if consumed in high doses.
- Taking turmeric is not recommended in those who have gallbladder problems such as bile duct obstruction.
- Likewise, if you are taking anticoagulant treatment, taking turmeric is strongly discouraged. The anticoagulant effect would be additional. Talk to your doctor about it.
- Turmeric is not recommended during pregnancy.
Side effects
In moderate consumption, turmeric does not seem to pose a problem, except in pregnant woman for whom it is not recommended.