26. How Turmeric Works: A PhD Perspective on Inflammation and Healing

What if the secret to vibrant health lies in your spice cabinet? In this powerful episode, Kate sits down with Dr. Shivani Gupta, a PhD in turmeric, Ayurvedic practitioner, and founder of Fusionary Formulas, to unpack the science, tradition, and daily rituals that can help reverse chronic inflammation. From autoimmune flares to hormone imbalances, leaky gut to joint pain, this conversation goes beyond the turmeric latte and into the real, research-backed benefits of Ayurveda’s golden root. Dr. Gupta shares her personal journey from chronic illness to vibrant health, plus practical detox strategies, Ayurvedic rituals, and exactly how to build resilience in a toxic world.

If you’re struggling with fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, or just feel off—this is a must-listen. Learn how inflammation hides in plain sight, how it fuels many modern diseases, and how to gently reclaim your health using both Eastern wisdom and modern science.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The real science behind turmeric and its anti-inflammatory power
• What “inflammaging” is—and why it’s not just about getting older
• How Ayurveda and functional medicine intersect in healing
• What leaky gut, mold exposure, and toxins have to do with hormone imbalance
• Dr. Gupta’s exact detox and self-care routines (and why they matter)
• The one Ayurvedic tool she recommends more than turmeric (!)
• When cold plunges aren’t a good idea and what to do instead
• A grounded take on hormone replacement therapy and why gut health is still key
• How to reduce your toxic load—without losing your mind

About Dr. Shivani Gupta:

Dr. Shivani Gupta is an Ayurvedic practitioner, wellness entrepreneur, and founder of Fusionary Formulas. With a PhD focused on turmeric and inflammation, she has spent over a decade helping patients and practitioners bridge the gap between Eastern and Western approaches to healing. A frequent speaker at integrative and functional medicine conferences, Dr. Gupta is known for making ancient practices accessible and practical for modern life. She is also the host of the Ayurveda Health Podcast and an advocate for daily rituals that create vibrant, pain-free living.

Find Dr. Gupta Online:

Website: https://shivaniGupta.com

Supplements: FusionaryFormulas.com – Use code EVERYDAYAYURVEDA for 15% off

Podcast: Ayurveda Health Podcast

Instagram: @dr.shivanigupta

Relevant Links from This Episode:

• Therasage Portable Infrared Sauna – grounding and detox-focused
• Fusionary Deep Sleep Tea – featuring Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi
• Copper Tongue Scraper – Dr. Gupta’s most recommended tool
• Everyday Ayurveda Discount Code for Fusionary Formulas – “EVERYDAYAYURVEDA”

Call to Action:

If this episode lit a fire in you to re-evaluate your self-care, detox routines, or supplement strategy, share