ABOUT HALDI (TURMERIC)
The Zingiberaceae family specie turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn), is commonly referred to by several other common names, including Urooq ul Asfar, Turmeric, or Indian saffron, Haridra, Zard chob, Darzardi, and Haldi. This plant maintains a significant place as an individual medicinal herb or as an ingredient in several formulations to address a wide range of health concerns. Haldi is native to tropical South Asia.
The botanical name for Haldi is Curcuma longa Linn.
MORE ABOUT HALDI
In Ayurveda, turmeric is used to balance the kapha, pitta and vata, doshas. However, it’s crucial to use turmeric sparingly, as too much can increase pitta and vata. Rasa relates to the astringent energetic effect, virya to the hot and caustic post-digestive effect, and vipaka to the residual taste or effect. The beneficial effects of turmeric on the rasa dhatu and rakta dhatu, or blood, plasma, and lymph tissues, are among its most recognized advantages. It has a relaxing and cooling impact in addition to supporting the normal flow and operation of these tissues.
- Haldi (Curcuma longa) has been used for nearly 4000 years in Indian Vedic culture.
- Haldi is used as a culinary spice and a medicine.
- Haldi was traditionally used to improve intestinal flora and digestion, relieve gas, and eliminate intestinal worms.
- It was also used to relieve swelling and strengthen the liver due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Haldi was used to treat burns, sprains, cuts, insect bites, bruises, and itches.
- It was thought to relieve coughs and asthma attacks.
- Haldi was used both topically and internally in cases of weakness or debility.
- Haldi has several therapeutic properties, including antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity.
Active constituents of Haldi (Curcuma longa):
Curcuminoids
- Curcumin
The most extensively studied and well-known curcuminoid in Haldi. Curcumin imparts a bright yellow color to Haldi and is associated with various health benefits.
- Demethoxycurcumin
Another curcuminoid present in Haldi is known for its medicinal properties.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin
The third curcuminoid found in Haldi also contributes to its therapeutic effects.
Essential Oils
Turmerone
A prominent component of Haldi’s essential oil fraction, recognized for its aromatic properties and potential health benefits.
Atlantone
Another essential oil constituent in Haldi adds to its fragrance and potential medicinal properties.
Liver Health Support
Turmeric is gaining popularity due to its antioxidant properties and potential to protect the liver from toxicity. Its potent antioxidants can be especially beneficial for people taking medications that may have long-term effects on liver health, such as diabetes medications. Turmeric and its active compound, curcumin, are both generally safe to use and have not been linked to liver damage when taken orally. While additional research is necessary to ascertain the effectiveness and safety of turmeric for these particular applications, some have proposed it as a potential treatment for both acute and chronic liver damage.
Overall Wellbeing
Turmeric can help maintain a healthy immune system. It’s a great herb to have on hand, especially during the winter or when you need extra immune support. These specialized formulas are specifically designed to boost and maintain healthy immune function.
Healthy Blood Circulation Support
Research has shown that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, can potentially reverse several steps in the development of heart disease. Curcumin offers a significant advantage by enhancing the function of the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, which plays a vital role in regulating clotting and blood pressure. Studies indicate that curcumin may contribute to enhancements in heart health and could potentially be equally effective to exercise for post-menopausal women.
Anti-bacterial activity
Curcuma longa methanol extracts inhibited Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermis, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Staphylococcus aureus at a minimum inhibitory concentration. Another study found Curcuma longa extracts to be antibacterial against bacteria like Vibrio harveyi, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio alginolyticus, and Staphylococcus intermedius.
Anti-inflammatory activity
Curcumin, the active compound found in turmeric, exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties. It effectively suppresses the production of inflammatory markers and enzymes like lipoxygenase, phospholipase, and cyclooxygenase-2. Curcumin also inhibits the release of inflammatory molecules such as thromboxane, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and nitric oxide.
Anti-bacterial activity
The study examined the antibacterial properties of turmeric extracts in several solvents, including methanol, chloroform, n-hexane, and water. Each extract had a different inhibitory zone. However, Escherichia coli showed susceptibility to them all. Water extracts had little inhibition against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus at specific doses, even at higher temperatures. While methanol extracts at room temperature exhibited the best inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus.
Antiinflammatory activity
Curcumin decreases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by influencing nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase and enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. This effect is mediated through the Nrf2-Keap1(Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1.) pathway. Furthermore, curcumin’s antioxidant activity contributes to its ability to reduce inflammation.
- Turmeric should be avoided if you have bile duct obstruction, jaundice, acute hepatitis, gallstones, hyperacidity, or ulcers.
- When combined with blood-thinning or platelet-inhibiting medications, turmeric should be used with caution.
- It’s also important to visit a healthcare professional if you have any serious medical conditions or are taking medication because excessive doses of Haldi may interfere with some drugs.
It’s simple to incorporate Haldi into your routine and there are several ways to achieve it:
Culinary Delight
To enhance flavor, color, and nutrition, mix Haldi powder into your favorite dishes.
Golden Milk
Combine HALDI powder with warm milk, a sprinkle of black pepper, and your preferred sweetener to make a soothing cup of golden milk.
HALDI Face Mask
To make a reviving face mask that can enhance skin health and give off a natural glow, combine HALDI powder with honey or yogurt.
Tea Infusion
To produce a refreshing turmeric tea, steep turmeric slices or powder in hot water. By using lemon, honey, or a dash of black pepper, you can improve the flavor.
