Turmeric has emerged as a formidable ingredient to cure indigestion, according to a new study, the first of its kind.
This golden spice, which possesses a natural compound called curcumin, is believed to contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Having originated from southeast Asia, the efficacy of turmeric in providing relief from indigestion was shrouded in uncertainty.
However, its efficacy was compared to conventional medicines like omeprazole, a remedy used to reduce excess stomach acid.
The study, published in the journal BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, concluded that curcumin and omeprazole had “comparable efficacy for functional dyspepsia with no obvious synergistic effect.”
The researchers conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Around 206 subjects who had recurrent upset stomachs participated. They were divided into three groups, each assigned a unique treatment plan for a 28-day period.
One group was given turmeric, consuming two grand capsules of curcumin four times a day, accompanied by a dummy capsule. The second group was given omeprazole, a 20 mg capsule daily and two dummy capsules to maintain balance.
For the rest, a fusion of turmeric and omeprazole was given.
The results showed that turmeric helped with indigestion. The patients in all three groups experienced a similar improvement in their symptoms.
Despite the results, the researchers acknowledged the limitations of the study. They suggest that long-term trials to check the benefits of turmeric should be conducted in the future.
“This multi-centre randomised controlled trial provides highly reliable evidence for the treatment of functional dyspepsia,” the authors said.
Should you add turmeric supplements to your diet for better indigestion? Consult your doctor, first.
Earlier, there have been studies that linked turmeric to liver injury and more research needs to be conducted to make sure turmeric doesn’t interact poorly with other medications you are on.
