Turmeric has recently garnered popularity in the natural health community. It appears to be a multi-purpose plant that benefits practically everyone in some way, from folks searching for a natural alternative to anti-inflammatory medicines to sportsmen trying to improve their recovery.
Turmeric, with its active ingredient curcumin, has received attention for its possible impact on sleep, in addition to its renown as a spice.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a spice derived from the Curcuma longa plant that is frequently linked with Indian cuisine. Its bright yellow color and warm, somewhat bitter flavor make it a popular ingredient in curries and other meals.
However, turmeric has a long history in traditional medicine, where it is prized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, which are mostly attributable to curcumin. Turmeric and curcumin have been used for millennia in Ayurvedic medicine to cure several diseases and improve general health.
Turmeric is known in traditional medical traditions to be an effective treatment for inflammatory illnesses, digestive problems, and skin ailments.
Curcumin is one of the bioactive chemicals found in turmeric that accounts for many of its health-promoting effects.
Can Turmeric Help Get a Better Sleep at Night?
Turmeric’s sleep-promoting qualities are connected to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics, notably curcumin. Inflammation and oxidative stress can also lead to sleep problems, and turmeric’s ability to alleviate these conditions may improve sleep quality.
Curcumin is also thought to alter neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation and sleep-wake cycles.
Other Benefits and Uses of Turmeric
Anti Inflammatory Properties
Turmeric, and more especially its active ingredient curcumin, is well known for its anti-inflammatory qualities. As a result, it is a significant ally in the management of illnesses such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders, giving pain relief and promoting joint health.
Moreover, research has shown that curcumin supplements can significantly reduce inflammation in the body, bringing comfort to people suffering from chronic inflammatory disorders.
Antioxidant Defense
Curcumin’s ability to destroy free radicals is credited with turmeric’s antioxidant capability. This not only benefits cellular health but also has implications for the prevention of chronic disorders linked to oxidative stress.
Gut Health
Turmeric has been shown to improve digestive health by boosting bile production and assisting in fat breakdown. It may help to maintain a healthy digestive tract by lowering indigestion symptoms and supporting overall gut health.
Skin Support
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits extend to skin health. It is being researched for its potential in treating skin disorders including acne and psoriasis, as well as producing a beautiful complexion.
Mood Regulation
Curcumin may alter neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play important roles in mood regulation, according to new studies. While additional research is needed, turmeric’s possible influence on mood is gaining attention.
Should Turmeric Be Taken on an Empty Stomach or With Food?
There is no clear answer regarding whether turmeric is best taken on an empty stomach or with meals. Studies have not shown a substantial variation in its effects dependent on time. It comes down to personal choice and health goals.
Turmeric for Sleep: Those searching for potential sleep benefits choose to take turmeric at night. The nocturnal hours allow the body to absorb and utilize the active compounds without interference from other meals. Incorporating turmeric into a relaxing bedtime ritual, such as warm turmeric tea, may encourage overall serenity and improved sleep.
Turmeric Throughout the Day: Some people like to consume turmeric throughout the day for its anti-inflammatory and other health advantages. Taking it with food can help absorption, especially as curcumin is fat-soluble.
Is There a Best Time to Take Turmeric?
There’s no best time to take turmeric. Study shows that effects aren’t altered by the time it’s taken. It’s on personal tastes and health objectives. Those looking for potential sleep advantages generally prefer to take turmeric at night. The nighttime hours allow the body to absorb and use the active chemicals without interruption from other meals.
Incorporating turmeric into a peaceful nightly routine, such as warm turmeric tea, may improve general calmness.
It is important to remember, however, that individual reactions to turmeric might differ. Some people may have digestive pain if turmeric is consumed on an empty stomach; in such circumstances, taking turmeric with meals is advised.
Consultation with your doctor can give tailored recommendations based on unique health problems and objectives.
Can You Take Turmeric at Night?
Taking turmeric at night may be good for people looking for potential sleep benefits. The overnight hours allow the body to absorb and use the active compounds in turmeric without interference from other foods. Incorporating turmeric into a soothing bedtime ritual, such as drinking warm turmeric tea, can help you relax and sleep better.
3 Simple and Delicious Turmeric Recipes for Sleep
Here are some simple and tasty ways to include turmeric in your nighttime routine:
Golden Milk
- Warm up a cup of milk, either dairy or plant-based.
- Add a teaspoon of turmeric powder and a sprinkle of black pepper (to increase curcumin absorption).
- For more sweetness, add a dash of honey or maple syrup.
- Enjoy this calming drink before bedtime for a restful night’s sleep.
Turmeric Tea
- Make a pot of herbal tea (such as chamomile or peppermint).
- Combine a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a splash of lemon juice.
- Drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
- Sip on this scented tea in the evening to unwind and relax.
Turmeric Smoothie
- Blend a ripe banana with a handful of spinach.
- Add a teaspoon of turmeric powder and one scoop of protein powder.
- Pour in a dash of coconut or almond milk.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Enjoy this nutrient-dense smoothie as a tasty nighttime snack.
Conclusion
Turmeric’s possible sleep-promoting properties, combined with a slew of other health advantages, make it a versatile and all-around addition to one’s wellness regimen. Turmeric’s golden touch may hold the secret to not just robust health but also a restful night’s sleep, whether in a soothing cup of turmeric tea or as a condiment in evening cuisine.
If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to read this article on Struggling With Low Iron? Here’s How to Raise Your Levels While You Sleep.
*This information is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice tailored to individual needs.
Dr. Kimberly Langdon has been an MD for 31 years, board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist with 19-years of clinical experience. She graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, earning Honors in many rotations. She then completed her OB/GYN residency program at The Ohio State University Medical Center, earning first-place accolades for her Senior Research Project and Score of 98th percentile on a National Proficiency Test.
During her clinical career, she delivered over 2000 babies and specialized in minimally invasive procedures, menopause, endometriosis, menstrual disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. After retiring from clinical practice, she founded a medical device company to commercialize her two patented and four patent-pending medical devices for both life-threatening and non-life-threatening infections.
