Turmeric has many health benefits particularly its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric has been touted to be a super spice, mainly due to its role in cardiovascular health. Another spice is Curcumin which people often refer to turmeric and Curcumin to be the same thing, but there are differences to be aware of. Curcumin makes up about 2-8 percent of most turmeric preparations.
Shared benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin:
Both have been found to help improve levels of “bad” cholesterol. Turmeric and Curcumin may help reduce obesity by suppressing chronic inflammation associated with the disease.
Benefits of Curcumin:
More effective anti-inflammatory treatment than Advil (ibuprofen); may also help with inflamed joint conditions. (Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
Benefits of Turmeric:
In some studies it was more effective in inhibiting the growth of breast cancer cells than Curcumin alone (66% growth vs 33%).
Some studies showed that while 8 components in Turmeric, including Curcumin, exhibited anti-fungal benefits.