-Turmeric is a very popular medicinal herb because of its far-reaching benefits that may include heart health, joint heath, and overall cellular health. That’s because turmeric contains a powerful nutrient known as curcumin. -Curcumin may help support normal, healthy COX-2 (cyclo-oxygenase-2) levels in the body. COX-2 plays a critical role in the process that controls inflammation. -Curcuminoids also act as potent antioxidants that may help to neutralize free radical toxins in both water and fat-soluble forms, which helps to protect many biochemical processes and cells. -While turmeric has been used in ancient medicine for thousands of years, it is largely absent in the western diet.