Turmeric – what does the science say about ‘the Golden Goddess’?
There are probably few spices that have been written about as much as turmeric.
It is a fantastic thing to behold, the colour alone, a rich yellow or deep orange, makes it stand out from the crowd.
Half of the world’s turmeric is consumed in India where it is often referred to as “the golden goddess”.
It has been used in cooking for centuries and, in the UK at least, has long been regarded as merely a versatile, fragrant and colourful spice for many dishes.
More recently, claims have been made about its health benefits.
Perhaps it is just the UK catching up with the rest of the world; medicinal claims around turmeric go back hundreds of years.
But why has turmeric captivated us for so long? Is there any truth in the medicinal claims? And what is next for the famous yellowy-orange spice?
Dr Vivien Rolfe, Head of Herbal Research, Pukka Herbs
Viv is a gut physiologist and is Head of Herbal Research at Pukka Herbs. In her career she has researched how herbs and spices can benefit health in humans and companion animals.
In her role she builds upon traditional herbal knowledge to create novel scientific questions, and partners with universities around the globe to carry out research.
She has always been a champion of growing diversity in science and supports young researchers through offering internships and mentoring.
Dr Kristopher Paultre, University of Miami
Dr Paultre is a Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician at the University of Miami.
He is also Assistant Professor in the Departments of Family Medicine and Orthopaedics.
As well as being Team Physician for the University of Miami Athletics, Major League Baseball’s Miami Marlins, and US Olympic Sailing Team.
In 2020 he received the American Medical Society of Sports Medicine’s Young Investigator Award.
