The health benefits of turmeric have been known for over 4,000 years. One of the benefits of helping to initiate menstruation has been attributed to Indonesian women. So what exactly is the secret behind turmeric as a woman's savior during menstruation and its many benefits?
Get to know turmeric and its ingredients
Turmeric is a type of root plant that is characterized by its striking yellow color. Because of its different nutritional value, this root plant has been included in the superfood category.
One of the unique ingredients of turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin is a bioactive compound in the form of yellow-orange crystals that is often used as a dye. Some other ingredients include calcium, potassium, sodium, zinc, arabinose, fructose, glucose, and essential oils.
This root crop is safe for consumption in reasonable quantities. But consuming turmeric in excessive amounts can risk causing stomach pain and causing stomach ulcers.
Benefits Of Turmeric for Menstruation
The curcumin compound in turmeric has many benefits. Among them have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
- Resist premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Before menstruation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can be experienced by women with various symptoms such as headache, weakness, runny nose, or acne. To resist these PMS symptoms, consuming turmeric can boost your immune system.
A strong immune system will help women through PMS avoid headaches and weakness and even prevent bacterial infections that cause acne.
- Handle Cramps and Abdominal Pain During Menstruation
Abdominal cramps and pain occur during menstruation due to strong contractions of the uterine muscles. If you are one of those who often experience this, consuming turmeric can be a solution to overcome it.
The reason is that the active content of curcumin can function as an anti-inflammatory agent that can calm muscle contractions in the uterus and intestines. In addition, this substance also inhibits the production of prostaglandins that cause pain.
- Improve the menstrual cycle
When consumed regularly, turmeric helps kick-start the menstrual cycle. In general, a normal menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days. Women with irregular menstrual cycles, lasting longer than 35 days, will usually experience pain that is more intense than normal. In addition, the menstrual blood flow may be heavier or less.
Turmeric will also induce menstruation safely and naturally, as this superfood is known to be a good source of estrogen for menstruating women.
- Dealing with Mood Swings
Hormonal changes that occur during menstruation can affect mood very drastically. You can be very emotional, irritable, or sad during your period, and curcumin can balance chemicals in the brain. So that women who consume turmeric can avoid these mood swings.