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| - Last Updated on November 27, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A video on social media by a user claims that turmeric can purify blood. We fact checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
A facebook video by the user Dr. Vivek Joshi posted a video claiming that turmeric can purify blood.
Fact Check
Is it possible to purify blood using a herb?
Dr. Almas Fatma, a diabetologist in Mumbai, explains, “No herbs or natural remedy can “purify” blood in the medical sense, like dialysis does for individuals with kidney failure. Dialysis is a medical procedure that filters waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys are no longer able to perform this function. While some herbs are believed to support liver or kidney function, they cannot replace the role of these organs or perform the complex filtration required to cleanse the blood. Healthy lifestyle habits, including proper hydration and balanced nutrition, support overall detoxification, but they don’t “purify” the blood directly.”
Does turmeric act as a blood purifier?
Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, says, “No, turmeric does not “purify” your blood in the way that some traditional medicine claims. The concept of “blood purification” is a bit ambiguous and doesn’t have a precise medical definition. While turmeric is an excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest that it directly cleanses or detoxifies the blood.”
She further explains, “Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin, which has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties can support overall health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, but this doesn’t translate into the blood being “purified” as some might believe.”
Can turmeric help with detoxification?
No, turmeric does not detoxify the body in the way that some people suggest. Detoxification primarily happens in the liver, kidneys, and other organs, which naturally filter out toxins. Dr Mohit Sandhu, BAMS|CAD|CAC|PGDAKS from Gurgaon says, “Turmeric might support the liver’s function by reducing inflammation and providing antioxidant support, but it doesn’t actively “detox” the blood or body.”
Some studies show that curcumin (turmeric’s active ingredient) can support liver health, which is crucial for the body’s natural detoxification process. However, this support doesn’t mean turmeric is removing harmful substances directly from the blood. The liver’s job is to break down and remove toxins, and while turmeric may help improve liver function, it doesn’t replace or accelerate this process.
Does turmeric reduce blood toxins?
No, turmeric doesn’t reduce blood toxins directly. While turmeric can play a supportive role in overall health, the idea that it directly reduces blood toxins is misleading. The body’s own detox systems—chiefly the liver, kidneys, and digestive system—are responsible for managing toxins.
Turmeric may, however, contribute to the body’s ability to deal with toxins by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage. The antioxidants in turmeric can neutralise free radicals, which are unstable molecules that contribute to inflammation and cellular damage. But again, this isn’t the same as “purifying” the blood. The idea that turmeric has some magical ability to rid the blood of impurities is a gross overstatement.
We have also debunked another claim which suggests turmeric along with ginger can cure cough and cold instantly.
Are there any proven health benefits of turmeric for blood health?
Yes, turmeric does have several health benefits, but these should not be confused with blood purification. Turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help with conditions like arthritis or heart disease. It also has antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage.
Additionally, some studies suggest turmeric may help lower cholesterol and improve endothelial function (the health of blood vessels), which is important for overall blood circulation and heart health. But none of these benefits equate to “purifying” the blood in the way that detox enthusiasts might suggest.
Conclusion
While turmeric is a powerful and beneficial spice with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, the idea that it “purifies” the blood is not scientifically supported. The body’s natural detoxification mechanisms are far more capable of removing toxins than any supplement or spice. Turmeric can support these processes by promoting liver health and reducing inflammation, but it doesn’t cleanse the blood directly. Instead of relying on turmeric as a blood purifier, it’s better to view it as part of a balanced diet that can contribute to overall health. Always consult a healthcare professional before using turmeric as a treatment for any health condition.
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