Bottom line up front:

Not essential for life, can help with inflammation. Tasty!

 

What is it?

Per the NIH—Turmeric, a plant in the ginger family, is native to Southeast Asia, primarily in India. Its rhizome (underground stem) is used as a culinary spice and traditional medicine. It was traditionally used for disorders of the skin, upper respiratory tract, joints, and digestive system. Today, turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression, and many others.

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What does that mean?

It is a natural plant that can help with inflammation—and associated disease processes

 

Why might you take it?

Painful joints

Bowl irritation

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How much can I take?

No set recommendation for amount

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What happens if I don’t get enough?

Probably nothing

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What happens if I take in too much?

We don’t know because we really don’t know how much is too much

 

What can I eat?

You actually have to eat the turmeric or cumin, not found in other foods naturally.

If you are going to supplement, make sure you’re combining with black pepper as you get much great absorption and benefit

 

Final take:

Turmeric is not essential for overall health, though you may get some benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties. Head here to read about the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric.