CURCUMA

CURCUMA LONGA

Curcuma , Curcuma longa is a plant in theZigberacee family.

Rhizomes are used to produce the spice. Rhizomes are a modification of the stem of plants with a reserve function…. Turmeric is, in fact, rich in starch; out of 10 grams of powdered turmeric, sugars can be as high as 6 grams, fiber about 2 grams, fat and protein just over a gram, and calories about 35 kcal.

Rhizomes are boiled or steamed, then sun-dried and finally ground.

Turmeric contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins B6, vitamin C, vitamin B3, vitamin E, K, B 2.

Contains maganese, iron, potassium, magnesium, copper, and zinc.

Among the nutrients present is curcumin a yellow colored polyphenol. Absorption of curcumin is modest, but may be enhanced by the presence of piperidine, found in pepper.

As with most phytonutrients, the beneficial effect is not in the substance itself, habitual use, although one should not overdo it.

Curcumin is used in the food industry as a natural colorant ( E100).

Curcumin increases longevity in all organisms by modulating the activity of signaling pathways – AMPK AND SIRT1.

The turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, an important antioxidant that can reduce oxidative stress, acting on free radicals, modulating the activity of the main antioxidant enzymes.