Kurkuma je vyhledávaná především jako silný antioxidant podporující funkci imunitního systému. Objevte její sílu s naší širokou nabídkou doplňků stravy ve formě tablet, kapslí, prášku i v tekuté podobě. Najdete u nás přípravky s vysokým obsahem curcuminu, ať už v čisté podobě nebo obohacené o vitamíny a další aktivní složky. Find out more
Turmeric, or Indian saffron, is a spice obtained from the dried ground rhizome of the curcuma longa, a plant native to Southeast Asia that is related to ginger. It has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years and is often found in the kitchen, where it is popular for its spicy, bitter taste and distinctive yellow to orange colour. It is used as a single spice or in a mixture called curry, along with coriander, cayenne pepper, cumin and other spices.
Turmeric is one of the so-called superfoods and is a popular natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It supports normal functioning of the nervous and respiratory systems, cardiovascular and immune systems, digestion, proper liver function and good bone and joint health.
Curcumin and absorption
Curcumin is one of the main active substances found in the root rhizomes of the turmeric tree. It is a natural polyphenol that has been the subject of numerous scientific studies for its positive effects on health. However, the problem is its poor absorption. If we want to achieve health benefits, it makes little sense to use turmeric alone, which contains only about 3 % curcumin. There is significantly better absorption when isolated curcumin is used in dietary supplements. Higher absorption is achieved here by modern technological processes or by the addition of a pepper extract called piperine.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) and its effects
Contributes to the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system
Supports the normal state of the immune system - antioxidant
Supports the normal condition of joints and bones
Contributes to normal liver function
Supports normal digestion
Supports normal nervous system function
Supports normal function of the respiratory system
Discover the benefits of turmeric and its side effects
Turmeric is generally considered a very safe substance. However, at very high doses and with long-term use, it could cause nausea, liver poisoning or diarrhea and increase the risk of ulcers. Some people may also be allergic to turmeric. People suffering from gallstones, kidney, liver, immunity or blood clotting disorders should be careful. In such cases, and also if you take any medications regularly, consult your doctor first when taking turmeric.
Turmeric - use and dosage
It is usually recommended to take turmeric on an empty stomach before meals. According to the European Food Safety Authority, the safe dose for a 60-pound adult is 180 milligrams of curcumin per day. Do not exceed the recommended dosage on the label.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curcumin is sought after for its extremely powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Heavy strength training causes microtraumas and inflammatory processes in the muscles and joints. Curcumin acts almost like "natural ibuprofen"—it suppresses inflammation, significantly relieves the pain of overworked joints, and shortens overall recovery time.
The difference lies in concentration and effectiveness. Turmeric (the yellow spice) contains only about 3% of the active ingredient curcumin in its natural state. To get the dose needed for a real reduction of inflammation in the body from the spice alone, you would have to eat huge amounts of it daily. High-quality dietary supplements, therefore, use a highly concentrated extract.
It is absolutely crucial for the supplement to work at all! Curcumin on its own has terrible bioavailability in the human body (the body cannot absorb it well and quickly excretes it). However, by adding piperine (black pepper extract), the absorption of curcumin is increased by an incredible 2000%. Therefore, always only buy supplements enriched with pepper extract (often trademarked as Bioperine®).
Absolutely yes. Studies repeatedly confirm that curcumin supplementation significantly reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), which sets in 24 to 48 hours after a demanding workout. By suppressing inflammatory markers in the body, you will feel less "beat up" and can return to full training performance sooner.
Curcumin is a fat-soluble substance. In order for it to be optimally absorbed in the intestines and pass into the bloodstream, it is absolutely essential to take it along with a meal that contains healthy fats (e.g., avocado, nuts, eggs, olive oil). In terms of timing, it is best to take it with your main meal of the day or with a larger post-workout meal.
