Turmeric, with its rich, golden hue and a history rooted deep in traditional medicine, has surged in popularity as a modern wellness hero.

At Dose, we're all about diving into the science behind nature's wonders. So, let's explore the potential of turmeric to not just spice up your meals but also support your circulatory health.

What Does Blood Pressure Mean?

Blood pressure is the term used to describe the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body. It’s a critical indicator of your overall circulatory health, typically recorded with two numbers: systolic and diastolic.

Systolic blood pressure, the higher of the two, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats and pushes blood out. 

The diastolic number, the lower one, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. These complementary numbers are usually presented as one over the other — systolic "over" diastolic — and measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), such as 120/80 mmHg.

Why Does Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure Matter?

Healthy blood pressure is fundamental to your overall health because it ensures that your blood flows smoothly and efficiently, delivering oxygen and nutrients where they're needed most. 

Let’s break down why keeping those blood pressure numbers in check is more than just a good habit.

Supports Heart Health

A healthy blood pressure means your heart isn’t overworking to pump blood through your arteries. This reduces wear and tear on the cardiovascular system, keeping the heart muscle healthy and efficient.

Promotes Cognitive Function

High blood pressure can also impact your brain health, hindering the crucial blood flow that keeps your brain functioning properly. 

By keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range, you're essentially helping your brain stay spry, preserving your mental clarity and memory sharpness as you age.

Reduces Risk of Vascular Damage

Consistently high blood pressure is a risk factor that can lead to the hardening and narrowing of arteries, a condition known as arteriosclerosis. 

By maintaining a healthy blood pressure, you minimize the strain on your arteries, helping to keep them supple and responsive. This is important for preventing the kind of damage that can lead to severe health issues down the line.

Preserves Kidney Function

Your kidneys are vital for filtering waste from your blood and regulating fluid levels. 

High blood pressure can damage the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to function properly. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure helps ensure that your kidneys continue to efficiently cleanse your blood and manage body fluids.

Supports Eye Health

The tiny, delicate blood vessels in your eyes are particularly vulnerable to high blood pressure. 

By keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range, you help protect these vessels, supporting overall eye health and maintaining your vision. It’s like avoiding excessive water pressure in delicate plumbing lines — too much and you risk leaks and damage.

What Is Turmeric?

Rooted deeply in ancient traditions, especially in Indian and Southeast Asian cultures, turmeric has been a staple in cooking, medicine, and even religious ceremonies for thousands of years.

Turmeric, a member of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, comes from the root of the curcuma longa plant. It's the curcumin — the main active component in turmeric — that gives turmeric both its distinctive color and many of its commonly-touted benefits.

How Does Turmeric Impact Blood Pressure?

Turmeric’s potential benefits for blood pressure largely come down to its main component: curcumin. 

The effects of curcumin include supporting healthy blood flow by supporting the lining of your blood vessels, known as the endothelium. Besides curcumin, turmeric hosts a variety of other compounds, all interlaced to create a holistic health experience. Thanks to this, turmeric may provide well-rounded support for your overall cardiovascular health.

It’s important to note that you shouldn’t rely on turmeric alone to maintain a healthy heart or healthy blood pressure — it’s best used alongside an overall healthy lifestyle and healthy habits, and you should consult your doctor if you suspect there may be a problem with your blood pressure or heart health.

Are There Any Side Effects of Turmeric?

While turmeric boasts a wide range of potential benefits, it's also smart to consider the flip side. 

Certain turmeric supplements, especially in particularly high doses, may interact with medications like blood thinners, affecting blood clot processes, glucose, and blood sugar levels, which are crucial for those with heart health concerns or type 2 diabetes.

It’s also best to consult your healthcare provider before using turmeric supplements if you have gallbladder issues or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

It's important to align its use with your unique health profile and consult healthcare professionals — particularly if you have existing health conditions or are taking any medications. This ensures that you harness turmeric’s benefits safely and effectively, without unintended effects on your health journey.

Who Should Consider Adding Turmeric to Their Routine?

Turmeric could be a great addition for anyone looking to enhance their wellness routine with natural elements. It's especially fitting for individuals interested in the holistic benefits of this vibrant spice, including its ability to support cardiovascular health and manage everyday physical stress. 

Loaded with beneficial enzymes and recognized for its effects, turmeric is more than just a kitchen staple — it’s a health-supporting powerhouse. Whether you’re a fan of its bold flavor in dishes or curious about its curcuminoid content, incorporating turmeric could be a wise step toward maintaining your overall wellness.

How To Get the Benefits of Turmeric in Your Day-to-Day Life

Incorporating turmeric into your daily routine doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are some simple and tasty ways to get the most out of this golden powerhouse:

Spice Up Your Meals

Turmeric doesn’t have to be confined to curries and stews. Brighten up your morning scramble or tofu with a sprinkle of this sunny spice, or whisk it into your salad dressings for an earthy twist. It’s an easy hack to boost both flavor and health benefits in one go. 

Sip on Some Golden Tea

Swap out one of your daily coffees with a warming turmeric tea. Just simmer turmeric with milk (dairy or plant-based), a dash of black pepper (to enhance absorption), and a touch of honey for a comforting beverage that soothes as it benefits. It’s a hug in a cup, especially on those chilly afternoons when your energy levels might be flagging.

Get Creative with Smoothies

Add a teaspoon of turmeric into your favorite smoothie recipe. Whether it’s a berry blast or a green goddess mix, turmeric blends wonderfully and brings its heart-friendly properties to the table. Plus, it gives your smoothie a bright color that’s sure to light up your Instagram feed as well as your day.

Embrace the Power of Supplements

For those days when you're on a sprint and cooking seems a mile away, a quick and effective way to incorporate turmeric is through our wellness shot Dose for Your Liver. 

While it's crafted to support liver health, the high bioavailability of curcumin in the formulation also aids in maintaining healthy blood flow and blood pressure levels. Think of it as having a secret weapon in your wellness arsenal that supports you without any fuss.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to your blood pressure, turmeric may play a generally supportive role in your overall wellness. By supporting smooth, healthy blood flow and offering potential antioxidant benefits, turmeric stands out not just in your spice rack but also as a part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. 

Whether you're seasoning your favorite dish, sipping it in tea, or taking Dose for Your Liver, remember, while turmeric offers great benefits, it's not a cure-all for your health dysfunction. Always pair it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a chat with your healthcare provider to ensure it fits your health needs perfectly.

Sources:

What Is Blood Pressure? | Cleveland Clinic

Regular Blood Pressure Checks Can Save Your Life | Wake Forest University School of Medicine

High blood pressure or hypertension is linked to cognitive decline | National Institute on Aging

Arteriosclerosis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment | Cleveland Clinic

High blood pressure and eye disease Information | Mount Sinai