Turmeric and curcumin: what it is and how to use it at home

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is the root that gives curry its yellow color. Its best-known compound is called curcumin (in Spanish, curcumina; the root is called cúrcuma). It has been used in cooking for centuries and today it is also sold as a supplement. Here is what it is, how to use it at home and what to look for on the label if you take it as a supplement.

What curcumin is

The fresh root and the cooking powder have curcumin, but in small amounts. Supplement extracts concentrate it. The body absorbs it better when it has company: that is why many formulas combine it with black pepper (piperine; on labels it appears as BioPerine) or why it is suggested to take it with a little fat.

In Indian cooking it is used in mustards, broths and curries, and also as a natural coloring. Turmeric tea with milk is known as golden milk.

What it does for the body

Curcumin is an antioxidant: it helps the body neutralize free radicals, which form every day from the sun, pollution and the body's own metabolism. That is why turmeric is in our Antioxidant Supplements category, along with others such as coenzyme Q10 or resveratrol.

How to use it at home

• In food. A teaspoon of turmeric in stews, rice or lentils. Better with a little fat (oil, coconut milk) and a pinch of black pepper.
• As a drink. Turmeric with milk (or a plant-based drink) and cinnamon. If you prefer it ready-made, we have the Turmeric Latte with Probiotics.
• As a supplement. Look at how many milligrams of curcumin or extract each tablet or capsule has, not just "turmeric".

Frequently asked questions

Are turmeric and curcumin the same thing?
No. Turmeric is the root; curcumin is one of its compounds. A supplement extract has more curcumin than the same amount of cooking turmeric.

Why do many formulas have black pepper?
Because the piperine in black pepper helps the body absorb curcumin.

Does it stain clothes and teeth?
Yes. It is a strong coloring. For the drink, use a cup you do not mind staining.

What we have in the store

• Turmeric 500 by Source Naturals, with BioPerine and bromelain, in tablets.
• Turmeric Extract by Planetary Herbals, with BioPerine, in tablets.
• Turmeric Latte with Probiotics, to prepare as a drink.

For more details, call us at 787-304-0458.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.