10 Incredible Health Benefits Of Turmeric Tea

Wellness

oi-Neha Ghosh

on December 3, 2020

Turmeric is the most popular and commonly used spice in Indian cuisine. It adds a vibrant colour to delectable dishes and is known for its medicinal, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric spice and teas have been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicine for thousands of years.

Turmeric is a bright yellow-orange spice that comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant. This wonderful spice is loaded with several health benefits, such as boosting brain function, lowering inflammation, improving heart health and managing cancer to name a few.

Turmeric can be consumed in the form of capsule, tablet and tea. Turmeric tea is a herbal tea known for its potential health benefits.

What Is Turmeric Tea?

Turmeric tea is a herbal tea made by brewing grated turmeric root or turmeric powder. It has a unique but subtle flavour and offers an array of health benefits [1]. Turmeric tea can also be combined with other ingredients like ginger, lemon, honey and pepper to increase the flavour and nutrient profile.

A 2017 study published in the journal Foods showed that consuming turmeric with black pepper increases the absorption of curcumin by up to 2000 per cent [2]. Curcumin is an active compound in turmeric known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

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Health 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 [3]. 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 [4].

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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 [5].

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 published in the Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications found that curcumin reduced blood glucose levels and long-term complications of diabetes [6].

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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 [7] [8].

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6. Manages IBS symptoms

Turmeric has long been used in traditional medicines as a treatment for many digestive problems. A study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 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 [9].

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 [10].

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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) [11].

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 [12].

10. May manage cancer

Consuming turmeric tea may also be beneficial for managing cancer risk due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [13] [14]. In fact, The National Cancer Institute has recognised curcumin as an effective anticarcinogen that can help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Side Effects Of Turmeric Tea

Turmeric as a spice or tea is generally safe to consume without causing any adverse effects. However, some people who are allergic to turmeric should avoid consuming turmeric tea, though turmeric allergies are rare. Consuming high doses of turmeric tea may cause side effects like nausea and diarrhoea.

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 or black pepper to enhance its taste.

How Often Should You Drink Turmeric Tea?

It is safe to consume 400 to 600 mg of turmeric powder three times daily, or 1 to 3 g grated turmeric root daily. The best time to drink turmeric tea is in the morning.