Ingredient Spotlight: Turmeric

Ivan Solis

When we think of turmeric, our minds — and stomachs — are immediately infiltrated with images of delicious Indian dishes. While turmeric is native to southwest India, the plant is actually part of the ginger family. It’s most commonly found as a spice and has been used in Asia for thousands of years as an anti-inflammatory treatment. Adding the bright orange powder to your diet can help improve brain power, boost liver function, ease muscle aches and pains, and potentially slow the growth of cancer cells. Your mind, body, and beauty will reap the benefits of this natural ingredient.

Mind

According to this study, a twice-daily dose of curcumin—a compound found in turmeric—has the ability to boost one’s memory and mood. It’s even known to improve the symptoms of depression. We suggest adding the powder to your morning tea or latte and using it to season your meals throughout the day.

Body

Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, is best known for decreasing inflammation (which is also beneficial in the beauty world, see below), aiding in lowering pain levels, and alleviating headaches that are caused by swelling. Other body perks include helping to speed up the healing of wounds and lowering the risk of heart disease.

Beauty

Since the powerful active ingredient we’ve mentioned above acts as an anti-inflammatory and works as an antioxidant, your skin will certainly enjoy the perks. You can use the spice to target blemishes, detoxify your face and neck, diminish dullness, and lessen fine lines. In other words: brighter, better skin. And who can resist that?

Shop our favorite turmeric-infused products below.