The Japanese have a high life expectancy, which is among the highest in the world. Okinawa, a Japanese island in the Pacific Ocean, is known for the exceptional longevity of its residents. There are many 100-year-olds who lead active and healthy lives well into old age. This phenomenon has attracted the attention of scientists and researchers trying to unravel the secret of Okinawan longevity. At the same time, most chronic age-related diseases occur much less frequently among the Japanese than among the Western population. Several factors contribute to their successful aging and healthy life expectancy, including a low-calorie diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fish. Additionally, there is a widespread cultural belief in Japan that “food is medicine.”
One factor often associated with their exceptional longevity is turmeric consumption. Turmeric is widely known for its distinctive flavor and is commonly used in the cuisine of South and Southeast Asia. The name turmeric comes from the Latin terra merita (meritable earth) because of the golden color of the ground root. The spice comes from the plant Curcuma longa, which belongs to the ginger family. It is grown for the stem, which is dried and ground into a yellow powder that has the well-known and popular bittersweet taste. This spice is typically used to make foods such as curries, American mustards, and to color butter and cheese.
The main component of turmeric that has attracted attention is curcumin. This curcuminoid polyphenol is said to have medicinal properties including helping to treat inflammation, degenerative eye disease, and even metabolic syndrome. Polyphenols are plant metabolites that are thought to help plants protect themselves against UV rays, insects, bacteria and even viruses. They contribute to the bitterness, acidity, color, flavor and oxidizing ability of foods.
What are the main health benefits of turmeric?
It has antioxidant properties. The value of protective substances such as curcumin is that they help the body fight the harmful effects of cell oxidation. Over time, this process can lead to chronic inflammation and, as a result, age-related diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. When we include protective antioxidant foods in our diet, our body can better cope with the aging process and the inflammation that comes with it. It also helps with exercise-related inflammation and muscle pain.
Another active ingredient in turmeric is curmerone. Although less is known about curmerone, studies suggest it may be useful in treating diseases such as stroke and Alzheimer's because it stimulates cell renewal and may potentially promote the recovery of brain functions.
It can help with indigestion because curcumin stimulates the gallbladder to produce bile, which some people believe can improve digestion. The German Commission E, which determines which herbs can be safely prescribed in Germany, has approved turmeric for digestive disorders. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, turmeric was found to reduce symptoms of gas and bloating in people suffering from digestive disorders.
Improving cardiovascular health: Turmeric may have a positive effect on heart function. It helps maintain normal cholesterol and blood pressure levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Okinawans who regularly consume turmeric have a lower incidence of cardiovascular problems.
Some ways of using turmeric by Okinawans:
Turmeric is an essential ingredient in many traditional Okinawan dishes. One of the most famous dishes is "gōyā champuru", a vegetable mixture with added turmeric. Turmeric is also used in soups, curries, rice dishes and juicy meats.
However, Okinawans mainly use turmeric in the form of drinks (here's how you can prepare them HERE/ ZDE ). A popular drink is "ukon tea" or "turmeric tea," which is turmeric-based and often served with honey and lemon. This drink is popular because of its health-promoting and digestive effects.
In addition to food, turmeric is also used in traditional Okinawan medicine. The Okinawans use them as a natural remedy to relieve various ailments. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help relieve pain and inflammation in the body. Turmeric is also used to support the immune system and treat digestive problems.
Turmeric is also used in cosmetics. Locals also use turmeric in cosmetic products because of its positive effects on skin and hair. The curcumin contained in turmeric has properties that help improve the condition of the skin, soften it and reduce inflammatory reactions. Turmeric is added to face masks, baths and other cosmetic products.
It is clear that turmeric plays an important role in the daily lives of Okinawans. Their presence in nutrition and traditional medicine contributes to their longevity and overall health. Turmeric is not only a tasty and aromatic ingredient, but also a powerful source of health and vitality. Turmeric has rightly earned its status as a “superfood” and is becoming increasingly popular in healthy eating thanks to these remarkable properties.
In our online shop - the leading provider of high-quality natural products - you have the opportunity to discover turmeric - turmeric of the highest quality. Thanks to carefully selected sources and gentle processing, you can rest assured that it is fresh, natural and full of life-giving substances. If you would like to benefit from the health benefits of turmeric, our offer offers you a unique opportunity to get the highest quality turmeric directly into your hands. HERE
You can also buy turmeric in capsules HERE .
If you don't have enough, you can also watch a video below on how Okinawans live and use turmeric. We hope you enjoy watching it, perhaps with a cup of turmeric!
Thanks for reading!
Your Kratom World