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Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, is also responsible for fighting some types of cancer.

Strictly speaking, saffron is a piece of the stigmas of the species' flowers. Crocus sativus, a plant of the Iridaceae family. However, in Brazil, this term is commonly used to designate the turmeric, a part of the root of the plant of the species. long curcuma. Also known as turmeric and yellow ginger, turmeric is a plant native to Asia, which gives rise to a spice of intense yellow color. The spice is widely used as a condiment in cooking - mainly in India. However, saffron does not live only from cooking. It can be used with a natural tissue dye and is also known for its medicinal properties, thanks to curcumin, the name of the pigment present in it, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

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We are often reminded by nutritionists and doctors to eat foods that have vibrant colors, as colors are associated with antioxidants. The intense color of saffron seems, then, to be worth gold: studies have shown the effectiveness of curcumin in fighting cancer and other diseases. "Turmeric has been much studied, because the people who use it do not have a prevalence of various diseases, including various types of cancer and heart problems", says nutritionist Jacqueline de Oliveira.

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1. Blocks cancer growth

Chinese medicine already uses turmeric to remove inflammation in the internal and external parts of the body, but Western medicine has also recognized the benefits of this product. Doctors at the University of California found that the pigment blocked an enzyme that promotes the growth of cancer in the head and neck. In the study, 21 subjects with head and neck cancer chewed two tablets containing 1,000 milligrams of curcumin. The result found was that enzymes that promoted cancer were inhibited by the compound, preventing the advance of malignant cells.

2. It has antioxidant property

Turmeric is also an antioxidant. The University of Maryland Medical Center has highlighted that the antioxidants in curcumin fight cancer-causing free radicals, reducing or preventing the damage they can do to our bodies. In addition to its anti-cancer properties, the compound is also a powerful anti-inflammatory. The University of Arizona examined the effects of turmeric in rats with rheumatoid arthritis. Result: Curcumin inhibited joint inflammation.

"Among the properties of curcumin that are being studied are reducing cholesterol levels, acting against cancer by delaying metastases, treating arthritis for having anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in protein digestion, facilitating the absorption of nutrients and regulating metabolism . It is bactericidal, antioxidant, blood purifying, detoxifying, calming and protects the cardiovascular system", summarized the benefits of the compound, nutritionist Jacqueline de Oliveira. With so many health benefits, the nutritionist gives tips on how to incorporate saffron into your diet: “You can consume saffron by sprinkling a teaspoon on salads, soups, rice, meat and vegetables. 500mg capsules" (before consuming turmeric as a medicine, consult your doctor).

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Here are a few more uses of saffron for you:

Longevity tea

The inhabitants of Japan's tiny island, Okinawa, which has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, drink saffron tea daily. To make yours, boil four cups of water, add a teaspoon of ground turmeric, and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Strain and add ginger to add flavor.

get rid of dandruff

Many claim that the combination of turmeric and olive oil can help fight dandruff. Make a mixture of the condiment and an oil of your choice - this could be jojoba, coconut, olive oil - massage into the scalp and let the mixture work for 15 minutes. Rinse and wash your hair normally.

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safer meat

Researchers at the University of Kansas have found that adding the spice to meat can reduce levels of heterocyclic amines by up to 40%. Heterocyclic amines form in chicken and red meat when cooked at high temperatures, such as when grilling. The consumption of such substances is associated with an increased risk of developing cancer.

Relieves kinks

A traditional homeopathic treatment when you have a sprain is to make a paste using one part salt to two turmeric and a little water to give the required consistency. Apply the paste to the affected joint and wrap it with a piece of cloth that could be stained. Leave on for 20 minutes to an hour. Apply once a day (your skin will be a little mottled - don't apply in places that don't want the yellow tint on the skin).

calms stomach

Turmeric has long been used to relieve an irritated stomach. O National Institutes of Health (NIH) US recommends 500 mg of turmeric four times a day to calm the stomach.