Gift of Nature "Amazing Health Benefit of Turmeric"

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a super-spice that has a high antioxidant value and boosts the immune system. It is a powerful anti-inflamatory and is popular among those with arthritis and joint problems for this reason. Turmeric is antiseptic and kills yeast and parasites when used internally. It is a member of the ginger family and it is what gives many Indian Foods their yellow color. It is used in curries and in mustard. There is some evidence that it supports brain health and can help avoid Alzheimer’s Disease.

Amazing Health Benefit of Turmeric:

1. Prevents Cancer

Turmeric can help prevent prostate cancer, stop the growth of existing prostate cancer and even destroy cancer cells. Multiple researchers have found that the active components in turmeric makes it one of the best protectors against radiation-induced tumors. It also has a preventive effect against tumor cells such as T-cell leukemia, colon carcinomas and breastcarcinomas.

2.Relieves Arthritis

The anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric are great for treating both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, turmeric’s antioxidant property destroys free radicals in the body that damage body cells. It has been found that those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis who consume turmeric on a regular basis experience much relief from the moderate to mild joint pains as well as joint inflammation.

3. Controls Diabetes

Turmeric can be used in the treatment of diabetes by helping to moderate insulin levels. It also improves glucose control and increases the effect of medications used to treat diabetes. Another significant benefit is turmeric’s effectiveness in helping reduce insulin resistance, which may prevent the onset of Type-2 diabetes. However, when combined with

strong medications, turmeric can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is best to consult a healthcare professional before taking turmeric capsules.

4. Reduces Cholesterol Level

Research has proven that simply using turmeric as a food seasoning can reduce serum cholesterol levels. It is a known fact that high cholesterol can lead to other serioushealth problems. Maintaining a proper cholesterol level can prevent many cardiovascular diseases.

5. Immunity Booster

Turmeric contains a substance known as lipopolysaccharide, which helps stimulate the body’s immune system. Its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agents also help strengthen the immune system. A strong immune system lessens the chance of suffering from colds, flu and coughs. If you do get a cold, a cough or the flu, you can feel better sooner by mixing one teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drinking it once daily.

6. Heals Wound

Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent and can be used as an effective disinfectant. If you have a cut or burn, you can sprinkle turmeric powder on the affected area to speed up the healing process. Turmeric also helps repair damaged skin and may be used to treat psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

7. Weight Management

Turmeric powder can be very helpful in maintaining an ideal body weight. A component present in turmeric helps increase the flow of bile, an important component in the breakdown of dietary fat. Those who wish to lose weight or treat obesity and other associated diseases can benefit from having one teaspoon of turmeric powder with every meal.

8. Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease

Brain inflammation is suspected to be one of the leading causes of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Turmeric supports overall brain health by aiding in the removal of plaque build-up in the brain and improving the flow of oxygen. This can also prevent or slow

down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

9. Improves Digestion

Many key components in turmeric stimulate the gallbladder to produce bile, which then improves digestion and reduces symptoms of bloating and gas. Also, turmeric is helpful in treating most forms of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis. However it is important to bear in mind that people suffering from any kind of gallbladder disease should not take turmeric as a dietary supplement as it may worsen the condition. It is best to consume turmeric in raw form when suffering from a digestive problem.

10. Prevents Liver Disease

Turmeric is a kind of natural liver detoxifier. The liver detoxifies the blood through the production of enzymes and turmeric increases production of these vital enzymes. These vital enzymes break down and reduce toxins in the body. Turmeric also is believed to invigorate and improve blood circulation. All of these factors support good liver health.

Given the numerous health benefits of turmeric, adding this powerful herb to your diet is one of the best things you can do to improve the quality of your life. You can add turmeric in powder form to curries, stir fried dishes, smoothies, warm milk and even to spicy salad dressings. Turmeric can be taken in pill form also. However, turmeric should not be used bypeople with gallstones or bile obstruction.

How to Use Turmeric:

It can be used externally in poultices to sooth skin and reduce inflammation. It is often used in lotions or preparations for skin with eczema or psoriasis. When incorporated into the diet it can be helpful for reducing inflammation in those with arthritis.

Turmeric can be made into a paste with water or honey to make a skin scrub that cools inflammation and helps stop acne.

Externally, a paste of turmeric and aloe vera gel can ease pain and itching from burns, bites, chicken pox, poison ivy, or eczema.

In a soothing Turmeric Tea to sooth during illness or improve sleep. This is one of my favorite uses! See my recipe below.

It is wonderful to add to grilled foods, vegetables, mashed cauliflower, sauces, and spice blends. I add a pinch to my eggs in the morning and to most dishes that I cook.

Turmeric’s high antioxidant content makes it beneficial for the skin and it is used in

some natural sunscreens and bronzers. A paste of Turmeric and strong brewed black tea will temporarily darken the skin and there is some evidence that it might also provide some sun protection.

Turmeric is said to be great for the skin and can be used in facial washes and scrubs to sooth skin and even out skin tone. Turmeric can cause hair to become less thick so it is often used my Indian women on unwanted facial hair but should be avoided on the head or by men on their faces.

Turmeric is a wonderful spice to add to soups and stews as it gives them a rich, warmflavor and a beautiful color. If you make homemade bone broth, a couple teaspoons of Turmeric are a great addition.

Many people take it as a supplement to help reduce inflammation and pain, especially those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

Important Notes:

Turmeric should be taken in moderation or used in foods. Some folklore info suggests that it was used as a birth control and it should not be taken by women who are pregnant or tryingto become pregnant (though using it in cooking is fine).  As with any herb or supplement,

consult your doctor before using. When used externally, it will give the skin a light yellow hue for a little while after use and this can easily be washed off. Be careful about buying Turmeric from regular grocery stores as many brands are not organic or have additives. Turmeric can make gall bladder problems and GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disorder) worse.

Photo Gallery of Turmeric Flower & Plant:

 

http://wellnessmama.com/5297/herb-profile-turmeric/
http://www.top10homeremedies.com/kitchen-ingredients/10-health-benefits-of-turmeric.html
http://www.medindia.net/alternativemedicine/turmeric-powder.asp