Two of the most sought-after ingredients are hemp oil and curcumin and using the two together may give your body one heck of a health boost.

Did you know the body has an Endocannabinoid System? It’s an essential part of our neuro-immuno-endocrine network that consists of cannabinoid receptors. There are two types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.

CB1 receptors are concentrated in the brain and are critical for maintaining a healthy central nervous system. They affect appetite, muscle control, pain, cognition, thermoregulation, and stress response.

CB2 receptors are primarily found in immune cells. Activation of CB2 receptors is associated with immune function and immune cell proliferation, inflammation, and pain. When a particular cannabinoid attaches to these specific receptors, it triggers a series of changes in the way cells send signals to other cells throughout the body.

One way to stimulate and utilize the body’s Endocannabinoid System is by taking a full-spectrum hemp oil (ie: CBD), which will affect the body in a variety of ways and offers a plethora of health benefits.  

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is the bright, golden-colored spice prominently used in Indian curry dishes and has also been used for centuries as an herbal remedy. The curcumin in turmeric is the secret ingredient that gives turmeric its “superfood” status. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant, and consuming high amounts of antioxidants is critical for neutralizing free-radicals before they damage cells.

One of my favorite ways to include more turmeric into my life are turmeric gummies, drinking turmeric tea and making turmeric lattes.

Why Add Turmeric or Curcumin to Hemp Oil?

#1 reason: Combining two amazing nutrients into one capsule just makes so much sense! It reminds me of the old saying – more bang for the buck. 

#2 reason: CBD and curcumin both contain properties that support healthy, normal inflammatory levels. Combining them is an effective way to regulate your immune system’s response to pain, inflammation and stiffness. It’s crucial to minimize or ideally eliminate chronic inflammation, which is very damaging.  Here are five of my favorite foods to naturally maintain a normal inflammatory response, and guess what? Turmeric is at the top of the list! 

#3 reason: Curcumin has many amazing health benefits of its own. Here are ten additional health benefits of eating more turmeric.  

#4 reason: Curcumin stimulates bile production in the gallbladder which helps the liver eliminate toxins and other harmful compounds. The thicker the bile, the more sluggish the liver – here’s what makes your bile thick and more on how to keep it healthy. 

#5 reason: Turmeric has been used for a long time to support healthy digestion and endocannabinoid receptors are highly prevalent in the gut and intestinal lining. This makes them a perfect partner, especially when digestive troubles are triggered by anxiousness.

#6 reason: Together, they assist the immune system and offer immune enhancing effects.  

#7 reason: Curcumin is a major supporter of brain health. For example, it can increase the bioavailability of the essential fat DHA, which is a vital energy source for the brain, allowing it to make new neural connections. Curcumin can also benefit neuroplasticity, which allows for the creation and deletion of neural connections. It’s how you eliminate bad habits while forming good habits, along with learning new skills.

#8 reason: Cannabinoids are lipophilic, which means they’re fat-loving and dissolve in fats, not water. Curcumin is also fat-soluble. To make the most of your turmeric and hemp extract, you must take it with a source of fat.

Full spectrum hemp extract and curcumin have many individual health benefits, it makes sense to combine them into one formula. Give it a try! 

Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods

References:

Fernandez-Ruiz J et al. Cannabidiol for neurodegenerative disorders: important new clinical applications for this phytocannabinoid? BJCP 25 May 2012.

Miller RJ, Miller RE. Is cannabis an effective treatment for joint pain? Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2017 Sep-Oct;35 Suppl 107(5):59-67. Epub 2017 Sep 28. Review. PubMed PMID: 28967368

Szaflarski JP, Bebin EM, Cannabis, cannabidiol, and epilepsy--from receptors to clinical response. Epilepsy Behav. 2014;41:277-82