The old ancient spice Turmeric is probably more commonly known for its vibrant yellow color and for its use in cooking, but the incredible health benefits of this south Asian spice are increasingly being researched and uncovered.
Turmeric comes from the root of a curcuma longa plant; it has brown skin and deep orange flesh. Curcumin is the pigment and is the major ingredient that has been shown in studies to be the reason for Turmeric’s health benefits and medicinal effects.
It is extensively used in curry dishes and for centuries has been known in Chinese and Indian medicine, but further research is proving this ‘wonder spice’ could even treat and prevent such conditions as arthritis, cancer and Alzheimer’s.
Turmeric is widely used in India where the prevalence of colon, prostate, breast and lung cancer is lower by around 10 per cent and research has shown that the use of Turmeric has prevented breast cancer from spreading in mice. It also boosts the effects of the chemotherapy drug paclitaxel and is known to reduce its side effects.
It has been discovered that when Turmeric is combined with cruciferous vegetables, like cauliflower it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate tumours. It may also prevent melanoma and even cause existing melanoma cells to die.
Studies are also reporting that eating foods with turmeric could reduce the risk of developing childhood leukemia; again, the cases of the disease are much lower in Asian countries where this spice is being heavily used.
Current research has shown very promising results of Turmeric helping to prevent neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Turmeric’s natural anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent treatment for arthritis and of rheumatoid arthritis and works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without any of the side effects.
Other studies are also suggesting that the use of the oils found in Turmeric can help in the treatment of many inflammatory skin conditions and in the treatment of psoriasis.
As well as proving to have such excellent healing properties, it has also been discovered it is useful for disinfecting cuts and burns as it is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent.
Allergens, poor diet, pollution and everyday stresses can result in your liver not functioning at its best and Turmeric can be useful as part of the liver’s support system. It is a natural liver detoxifier and will enhance liver function and increase bile flow.
Turmeric also helps strengthen and improve digestion; it helps to digest body fat, which can also help with weight management. It reduces gas and bloating and helps with the elimination of waste and toxins.
Turmeric is a natural painkiller and there is evidence suggesting that the spice could be of benefit for Cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease, Type 2 disease diabetes, cataracts, gallstones, and inflammatory bowel disease.
There are so many health benefits of Turmeric, so why not add some to ‘spice up your life’. For cooking use, you must select turmeric&page=1/default.aspx">Pure Turmeric Powder</a>” target=”_blank”>pure turmeric powder instead of a pre-mixed curry powder. Alternatively, it is available in pill form as a supplement, usually in 250-500mg capsules and can be found in all good health food stores.
