11/05/2025

ON SUNDAY MAY 11, 2025 X theSunday Special

T URMERIC isn’t new. It has long been revered in traditional Indian and Southeast Asian systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda and Jamu, where it’s used to treat everything from wounds and respiratory issues to digestive troubles and skin conditions. What’s changed is how modern science is now beginning to validate what generations have practised for centuries. From turmeric shots at juice bars to curcumin-infused skincare and wellness supplements, it’s become the golden child of natural health trends – but beneath the hype lies genuine substance. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, a powerful polyphenol responsible not only for its vibrant yellow-orange pigment but also for its impressive pharmacological properties. Curcumin is both a potent antioxidant DQG DQ DQWL LQÀDPPDWRU\ FRPSRXQG It works at a cellular level to neutralise free radicals, reduce oxidative stress and PRGXODWH LQÀDPPDWRU\ SDWKZD\V ± WKH same ones linked to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, metabolic syndrome and some neurodegenerative disorders. It’s been studied for its ability to inhibit specific molecules like NF kB, which play a major role in chronic LQÀDPPDWLRQ Turmeric doesn’t perform miracles overnight and is not a one-stop solu tion. But when incorporated regularly into your diet or supplement routine, FXUFXPLQ FDQ KDYH D FXPXODWLYH H̆ HFW It supports the body’s internal systems quietly and steadily, helping regulate di gestion, immune function and emotional balance. The key lies in consistency and how it’s consumed, ideally with black pepper to enhance absorption or in formulations that increase its bioavail ability. It’s not just a spice anymore, it’s a daily ritual in many health-conscious

Golden touch: Ways turmeric supports health & healing

Spoonfuls of wisdom, sprinkled with science ALWAYS pair turmeric with a pinch of black pepper to boost your body’s ability to absorb curcumin. The compound in pepper, piperine, can increase curcumin’s absorption by up to 2,000%, a small kitchen hack that makes a big difference. In Malaysia, turmeric is part of the culinary and cultural landscape. From traditional gulai to nasi kunyit, it’s already part of our weekly diet; we just don’t always realise its health potential. You can also add it to smoothies, teas, soups, scrambled eggs and roasted vegetables. Turmeric milk with honey, black pepper and ginger is a soothing drink that’s incredibly comforting on rainy evenings or recovery days. As always, moderation is key. A small amount taken consistently does more good than large doses taken once in a while. For those on medication, particu larly blood thinners or during pregnancy, it’s wise to check with your doctor before starting high-dose supplements. Turmeric is more than a wellness trend. It’s a tradition rooted in genera tions of wisdom and increasingly backed by science. Whether it’s part of your cooking or your cup of tea, this golden spice may be the simplest way to add healing to your day.

&XUFXPLQ LV D QDWXUDO DQWL LQÀDPPDWRU\ helping soothe the body from within. Many people with arthritis or post exercise soreness turn to turmeric tea or capsules for daily relief. A LGV GLJHVWLRQ Turmeric has long been used to support digestion and relieve bloating. It encour ages bile production, which helps break GRZQ IRRG PRUH Ḣ FLHQWO\ $ VPDOO SLQFK of turmeric in warm water before meals is still a common practice in many Indian households. S XSSRUWV LPPXQLW\ Thanks to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, turmeric helps keep your immune system on its toes. It doesn’t replace your flu jab, but it may help your body respond better to everyday threats, especially when the weather (or air conditioning) plays tricks on you. L LIWV \RXU PRRG Curcumin has been studied for its po tential antidepressant effects. While it’s not a replacement for professional treatment, it may support overall brain function and emotional balance when taken consistently. F LJKWV R[LGDWLYH VWUHVV Packed with antioxidants, turmeric helps \RXU ERG\ FRPEDW WKH H̆ HFWV RI SROOXWLRQ poor sleep and general wear and tear. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, ZKLFK DFFHOHUDWH DJHLQJ DQG LQÀDPPD tion over time. P URPRWHV KHDUW KHDOWK Curcumin may help improve the lining of EORRG YHVVHOV DQG UHGXFH LQÀDPPDWLRQ throughout the cardiovascular system. While more research is ongoing, early signs point to turmeric being a helpful ally in supporting long-term heart func tion.

It’s been stirred into curries, brewed into teas and even blended into lattes. But beyond the colour and earthy kick, turmeric has earned a place in many kitchens and medicine cabinets for good reason

households for a reason. E DVHV LQÀDPPDWLRQ

C KURQLF LQÀDPPDWLRQ LV OLQNHG WR HYHU\ - WKLQJ IURP MRLQW SDLQ WR VNLQ ÀDUH XSV

Feeling a bit bloated? Turmeric has been a go-to remedy for settling the stomach for generations.