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- By Dr Tom Shurlock.
Turmeric appears to be the subject of endless advertisements, articles and customer feedback in the press, online and through mailshots. It is claimed to be a wonder product that can address every condition or problem known to mankind – and beyond. It has been central to Asian health as a culinary spice that helped in digestive conditions and, when vaporised and inhaled, had extensive health benefits.
So, what is the evidence?
Looking on technical websites, there are over 20,000 references for turmeric and over 4,000 papers, reviews and trials that have investigated the various claims. From these they are a number of fully researched turmeric facts (or modes of action) that can support the various claims.
Firstly, though, is the recognition that it is not turmeric, but a number of bioactive components that contribute to its reputation, and these items can vary between the foliage, the flower and the root of the turmeric plant.
What are the benefits?
Both the essential oils and curcumin (the most powerful compound found in turmeric) are reported to have antimicrobial properties; effective against both aerobic and anaerobic pathogens, gram + bacteria, Staphylococcus, Listeria, E coli & Salmonella species. A wider anti-parasitic role as anti-fungal, antiprotozoal, antiviral, larvicidal and nematocidal effects have also been shown, even its impact on tick adhesion to the skin.
Turmeric is also a powerful antioxidant. Turmeric, its extract and curcumin have all been reported to increase enzymes which protect against oxidative damage. Curcumin is also a primary antioxidant and acts by mopping up free radicals, especially as lipid radicals and reducing nitrous oxide and nitrite.
The essential oil has anti-inflammatory benefits, lowering PGE2 (a potent inflammatory mediator), whilst curcumin suppresses hyperglycaemic induced inflammation and suppresses insulin resistance. What is also important – and has many ramifications across the whole spectrum of well-being – is the interaction between the oxidative/antioxidative and inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cycles. Not only does this impact on all areas of metabolic and physiological function and dysfunction – from gastric ulcers to ageing, from muscular recovery to diabetes and critically as a potential immunomodulator – it also affects various carcinogenic systems.
The role of turmeric within this context has highlighted its actions, and research has concentrated on its mediation in osteo-arthritis, allergic reactions, skin quality, digestive dysfunction, and any number of inflammatory responses.
In summary…
So, under research conditions, turmeric has been shown to have multi-faceted actions, central to which is its antioxidative/inflammation interactions with all its ramifications.
However, bioactive availability is poor – most effects are demonstrated with injected material, and much further work has been carried out to ensure oral supplementation can be as effective.
This is where TurmerAid from The Golden Paste Company comes in; it has been carefully formulated for maximum absorption and bio-availability. The complete turmeric pellet contains a minimum 5.1% curcumin, yucca, black pepper, linseed and apple cider vinegar. It supports healthy joints, digestion and promotes a healthy skin and coat.
The only pelleted turmeric supplement on the market, TurmerAid™ remains effective as the ingredients are evenly distributed in each pellet and are only released when the horse bites into them.
There is no risk of individual ingredients dissipating inside the tub over time and the horse subsequently receiving an unbalanced measure.
The RRP for a 2kg tub is £19.99. A 15kg sack is also available, RRP £125.99.
For further information please email info@goldenpaste.com or visit goldenpastecompany.com.
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