Turmeric is a bright yellow-orange spice commonly used in curries and sauces. It comes from the turmeric root.
The spice has been used for its medicinal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties for thousands of years. Turmeric tea, however, is one popular form of consuming turmeric. It has a unique but subtle flavor.
Here are 9 incredible benefits of Turmeric tea:
1. Boosts immunity
Turmeric tea can help boost your immune system, thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Studies have shown that turmeric can strengthen immunity by fighting against bacterial or viral infections. Turmeric tea is used as a remedy for treating cold and flu since it possesses antibacterial and antiviral properties.
2. Relieves arthritis symptoms
Turmeric tea possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease inflammation and swelling in people with arthritis. A 2013 study found that curcumin in turmeric was effective in lowering pain in osteoarthritis patients.
3. Lowers cholesterol levels
Curcumin has been shown to keep your heart healthy by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Increased LDL cholesterol levels elevate the risk of heart disease, coronary artery disease and stroke and drinking turmeric tea reduces these health risks. A study showed that low doses of curcumin were linked to reduced LDL and total cholesterol levels.
4. Regulates blood sugar levels
For thousands of years, turmeric has been used in traditional medicine for treating diabetes. Consuming turmeric tea could help keep your blood sugar levels stable. A 2009 study found that curcumin reduced blood glucose levels and long-term complications of diabetes.
5. Prevents liver damage
The anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric can prevent liver damage caused by chronic liver diseases. Studies have shown that curcumin prevented liver toxicity and lowered the risk of liver diseases.
6. Manages IBS symptoms
Turmeric has long been used in traditional medicines as a treatment for many digestive problems. A study reported that curcumin may help decrease the pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and improve the quality of life of people with this condition.
7. Prevents Alzheimer’s disease
Noted studies have shown that curcumin may help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin reduce cellular damage, inflammation and amyloid deposits or plaques associated with Alzheimer’s development.
8. Manages lung conditions
Researchers have found that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin may reduce the symptoms of chronic lung conditions. A 2017 medical review concluded that curcumin may help treat asthma, pulmonary and cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, lung injury and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
9. May treat uveitis
Uveitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the eyes. And research studies have pointed out that curcumin can help in the treatment of uveitis due to the presence of anti-inflammatory properties.
How to make turmeric tea?
- Boil 4 cups of water and add 1 to 2 tsp of ground, grated or powdered turmeric.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the tea in a cup and allow it to cool for 5 minutes.
- Add honey, milk, lemon, ginger
