Turmeric And Its Many Uses

Turmeric and Its Many Uses

Today, turmeric is no longer just an addition to a dish, but also a supplemental treatment to various ailments. In the kitchen, this spice is used often as a substitute to saffron as it provides the same musty flavor and yellow color as the saffron does. For medical purposes, turmeric proves to be beneficial to those who have dental problems, cough, colds, and stomach problems. It is also used to treat more serious illnesses like arthritis, jaundice, and anemia.

Where Did Turmeric Come From?

Turmeric belongs to the Zingiberaceae ginger group and is indigenous to Southeast Asia. However, it is more cultivated India, making them the biggest turmeric producer in the world. Other countries like Taiwan, Peru, Pakistan, Thailand, and some Central and Latin American countries have already started cultivating this herb, as well.

Why is Turmeric Medicinal?

You can say that turmeric is a super herb as it contains a lot of medicinal properties that can prevent and treat numerous illnesses.

It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agents that could give could natural remedy to rheumatism and osteoarthritis. In addition, it is also said that turmeric can help lower down unhealthy cholesterol levels and aid in type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, turmeric is also a good supplement when you are trying to lose weight.

This herb can also minimize the risk of having cancer as it works as a powerful antioxidant. With its detoxifying properties, free radicals that damage our body cells are killed and destroyed.

In 2009, one study showed that turmeric is very useful for preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s. Combining curcumin, an active ingredient found in turmeric, and Vitamin D is believed to be helpful for Alzheimer’s prevention. Added to that, this herb is also known for making immune system stronger. Furthermore, there are also claims that turmeric can help in curing some eye problems and getting rid of intestinal worms.

This herb has also become a popular choice for curing common ailments like heartburn, bloating, gas, and indigestion because of its anti-spasmodic properties. With that, you can also try taking turmeric if you often suffer from menstrual cramps as it could very well soothe cramped muscles. Other people also used this herb as part of their beauty regimen to lessen skin pigmentation, pimples, and cure skin infections and boils.

How to Use Turmeric as Medicine?

Here are some ways you can use turmeric as cure for some illnesses:

For coughs and cold, you can add and mix a pinch of turmeric in a cup of warm milk. You can also add honey if you like.
To treat Eosinophilia, mix in a teaspoon of turmeric and an ounce of honey and take it three times in a day. Do this for three months.
If you suffer from bleeding gums, rinse your mouth with water and a pinch of turmeric and salt. You can also do this if you have bad breathe.
To get rid of annoying mouth blisters, boil water with some turmeric and then, gargle.
For people who have asthma or bronchitis, mix in aloe vera juice (30ml) with turmeric and consume. Better take this with lukewarm water. Do this every morning in an empty stomach for ten days to a month.

Safety Precautions

Taking in excessive amount of anything is bad; this also applied with turmeric. Consuming too much of this herb in one go can cause diarrhea, nausea, and ingestion. It is advisable to seek your doctor first if you are pregnant and would want to take medicinal turmeric as it is not advisable during the course of pregnancy. Medicinal turmeric is also not recommended for children under 2 years old.

Turmeric: Digestive and Liver Benefits

Most commonly found in Southeast Asia but has long been used in India – turmeric is more known to be a Middle Eastern spice rather than a medicinal herb. Belonging to the ginger family of Zingaberaceae, turmeric proved to have many health benefits for the liver and the digestive system. In traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic, this herb is known as a digestive bitter and carminative. In some countries, turmeric are combined with food, such as rice, fish, or bean dishes to aid in digestion and prevents bloating and gas. More so, it helps our body digest fats easier because of its cholagogue properties, which is responsible in increasing our liver’s bile production and promotes bile excretion through the gallbladder.

Using Turmeric Supplements

With its health benefits, the use of turmeric as a supplement is very advisable, especially to those who have stomach congestion or those who suffer from chronic digestive problems. If you feel tired every after meal or often experience bloating and gas, adding turmeric in your diet is definitely a must try. You can either take the turmeric as it is or make it like a digestive bitter and combined it with other herbs. To maximize its effects, it is recommended to take the turmeric twenty minutes before your meal, particularly if your food is packed with protein or fat.

Benefits of Using Turmeric

People with colitis, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and diarrhea could surely benefit from using turmeric as it has anti-inflammatory agents that improve congestion and inflammation of mucous membranes. The mucous membranes are the ones that cover and coat lungs, intestines, throat, and stomach. Aside from that, it also can help in providing itch and inflammation relief if you suffer from anal fissure or hemorrhoids. More so, since turmeric is also known for its anti-bacterial properties, this herb could help in improving intestinal flora or as a follow up supplement when you have undergone an antibiotic treatment.

Aside from its digestive health benefits, turmeric is also very useful to maintain or improve your liver’s health. This herb contains protective compounds that help the liver to eliminate toxins from the body easily. Furthermore, turmeric can also aid in treating people with hepatitis, jaundice, and cirrhosis as it is said it can shrink inflamed hepatic ducts.

Aside from treating diseases, turmeric is also a good addition to your diet if you often experience menstrual and digestive cramps. As it contains antispasmodic agents, this herb can soothe contracted muscles that cause cramps. You can try taking turmeric twice a day, two before your expected monthly period.

This should be able to lessen your menstrual cramps. Turmeric is also beneficial for those who have skin conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis as it is known to be a powerful detoxifier.

Incorporating turmeric in your daily diet is very advisable because of its health benefits. It could prevent any digestive and liver diseases, and if you already suffer from one, this herb could provide additional treatment. It is easy to make turmeric a part of your day as you can just combine it with your food, or take it as digestive bitter. Whichever way you decide to take turmeric, surely it will benefit you.

Using Turmeric For Relief Against Arthritic Pain

In the past years, a lot of assertions have been made with regards to how turmeric can be a source of the essential vitamins and minerals needed by the body to function at its best. Among others, it has been claimed that it is effective for arthritis, specifically in the reduction of pain associated with the inflammation of the joints.

What Is Turmeric

Before proceeding to the discussion on how turmeric is a wonderful herb for different health problems, it is important to first take a look at what it is first. This Indian spice comes from an herb native in the South Asian region, which has become more popular because of their medicinal applications. While the taste is quite pungent, it gives food a unique, making it taste more authentic. It is also known for its versatility as it can be mixed with anything, depending on your personal preferences. Aside from the culinary applications, many are surprised to know its value in alternative medicine, specifically when it comes to arthritic pain.

What Is Arthritis

Anyone who has been suffering from arthritis for a long time now would surely know how painful it is like. For those who do not have such condition, it is hard to understand how others are burdened with it. This condition shows negative effects on the joint, which connects two bones and basically responsible for your mobility. When you have arthritis, you will experience inflammation in the joints and it will be hard for you to move around. Aside from limiting the way you move, it also leads into severe pain, which can be felt every now and then. The severity of the pain will inevitably affect the productivity and quality of life of the patient. In order to deal with such pain, it is critical to discover promising relief options, such as in the case of turmeric.

Using Turmeric for Arthritis

Turmeric is abundant with a compound that is known as curcumin. The latter has an anti-inflammatory property, which is basically the reason why it provides effective relief against arthritis. This compound reacts with the protein that trigger arthritic pain. It also helps in the inhibition of prostaglandins and cyclooxygenase, which are the ones leading into inflammation. In addition, this compound is also known for lowering the level of histamine and stimulating hormones leading to a painful sensation.

Aside from being able to reduce the pain that results from arthritis, turmeric is also known to enhance the immune system, which allows the body to have better defense against a variety of illnesses. It is also abundant with antioxidants, which lessens the damages in the cells as caused by free radicals, and hence, making your body healthier.

Keep in mind, however, that turmeric should not be only consumed when you are experiencing arthritic pain. Instead, it should be taken as a preventive measure. You can have it incorporated in your daily diet, although the nutrients will be minimal.

In the end, it will be best to take supplements with pure turmeric extracts. You just have to make sure that it is purchased from a reputable supplier.

Using Turmeric for Better Skin Health

A lot of people are very much conscious about their skin, which explains why they constantly search for products with the promise of making them look more youthful and radiant. Sadly, although there are many cosmetic products available in the market today, not all of them can provide the same level of benefit. There are some that can do more harm than good, especially those that are filled with toxic chemicals. In this case, a better thing to do is to choose natural treatment options, such as in the case of turmeric. The latter has been used for thousands of years in alternative medicine and has recently become more popular because of being able to promote healthier skin, making it match the benefits that can be provided by the expensive products in the marketplace.

How Turmeric Helps Skin Health

The following are some of the most common ways by which turmeric makes the skin better and healthier:

Turmeric is reputed as an excellent natural option for controlling acne breakout. In our everyday life, your skin attracts dirt and bacteria. Once they are stuck on the pores, they can lead into the formation of pimples. With turmeric, the oil in the skin can be controlled better, and hence, preventing the appearance of pimples.
Skin pigmentation is another common problem that can be resolved with the help of turmeric. Some of the most common causes of pigmentation include sunlight exposure, changes in hormones, and excess melanin production in the skin. All of such can be addressed with the use of turmeric.
Turmeric has also been popular because of treating bruises and wounds, especially amongst children. Simple application of turmeric on the affected area will help to prevent the spread of infection and will also speed up the healing process.
Regular scrubbing of the face with turmeric can make it effective in having glowing skin. This will help delay the visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, among others.
Turmeric is also promising in terms of healing a variety of skin problems, such as in the case of psoriasis and eczema, among others.
For women who have just given birth, turmeric can also be used for the elimination of stretch marks. It can be scrubbed on the affected area before taking a bath and sooner, you will notice your skin becoming suppler and stretch marks will be eliminated.

How To Take Turmeric

There are different ways to take turmeric to make it effective in promoting a healthier skin. One of the things you can do is to mix turmeric with hot water, milk, and sugar, and drink it before you go to sleep. You can also mix turmeric powder with honey and use it as a scrub for the skin, which will help get rid of any impurities and dirt on the surface. Chickpeas flour, water, and turmeric can also be mixed to form a paste, which can help in promoting the softness of the skin. Dry turmeric can also be just applied directly on the cuts and bruises on the skin, which will work by fighting the infection and preventing such from spreading.

Turmeric: A Powerful Herb with Tons of Benefits

It is almost impossible to talk about Indian cuisine without mentioning curries. In the same way, it is impossible to imagine an authentic curry without the use of a spice known as turmeric. The latter is the one responsible for the yellow color of the curry, and more importantly, its unique flavor. This exotic spice is also commonly used in subzi and daal, among other Indian dishes. Nonetheless, while it is known for its culinary applications, turmeric has also gained reputation because of its medicinal applications. It is considered to be an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial, which basically explains why it is a preferred choice when it comes to alternative medicine.

To fully take advantage of turmeric, it should be used in its purest form. You can also just buy the root or create a paste on your own. There are also many supplements with the right dosage of a compound known as curcumin, which is basically the one responsible for making it healthy.

Reduction of Pigmentation

There are many skin products available in the market with the promise of minimizing pigmentation. Many of them, however, can be expensive and may also contain toxic chemicals that can do more harm than good for the skin.

With this, turmeric can be a viable alternative as it can provide the skin with a more even tone and color. Simply combine turmeric with lemon or cucumber juice and apply it on the area with pigmentation. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes and finish by rinsing. If this is done daily, it will not take long before you notice visible changes on your skin.

Strengthening of the Bones

Turmeric has been also popular because of its ability to improve bone health. Turmeric juice can be consumed with milk every night. Because women are at higher risk of having osteoporosis as they age, this is one thing that can benefit them. Use a half inch of turmeric root, and have it boiled with milk until you notice the color changing into yellow.

Protects Cells from Damages

Because of the abundance of antioxidant properties in turmeric, there is no wonder it helps to maintain the health of the cells, giving it protection against the damages caused by free radicals. It triggers the stability of oxygen molecules, which helps in the prevention of different health problems, including cancer.

Fight Diarrhea

If you are having stomach problems, such as in the case of diarrhea, turmeric will surely prove to be handy. In Germany, different health authorities have endorsed the use of this powerful herb for the purpose of curing loose stool.

Getting Rid of Stretch Marks

After giving birth, most women are in a struggle in looking for ways by which it will be possible for them to get rid of stretch marks. This is another situation wherein you will be happy to have turmeric at home. Simply combine malai and turmeric and apply it on your belly. Leave it there for about 15 minutes and rinse just in time when you are about to take a bath.

The Different Uses of Turmeric

For thousands of years, the use of turmeric in the field of alternative medicine has proven to be effective. In fact, because of such high level of effectiveness, it is now commonly used as an ingredient for the dietary supplements in the marketplace with the promise of being able to promote better health. Its many medical applications have made it a popular choice in alternative medicine, especially considering the fact that it is free from toxic ingredients that may deliver adverse side effects. You do not have to worry about taking turmeric as it is proven to be safe and effective.

Used As Food

Before people realized the medicinal value of turmeric, it was first used as a flavoring for food, especially in Indian curries. It is the one responsible for the unique color you can see in a curry. This is used to make sweet and savory dishes, all of which are sure to provide your taste buds with a unique treat. It can be mixed basically with just any food, depending on your personal preference.

Used as Dye

Another traditional application of turmeric is as a dye, specifically in the robes of monks and Indian clothing. It is still popular in spite of the fact that the color fades quite quickly. Aside from being used as a dye for fabric, it is also known for being a good choice for natural food coloring.

Used as Ceremonial Component

In ancient traditions, turmeric plays a significant role as well. It is a major component in a lot of Hindu rites and it is considered to be sacred in India. Monks are using it as a coloring for their robes. The bright color that is produced by turmeric is similar to the yellow sun, which is indicative of the solar plexus chakra. Turmeric plants are also given as holy offerings to ancient Indian gods. When Indian couples get married, they also traditionally wrap turmeric tubers on their wrists, which functions like a wedding ring.

Used as Medicine

Among other things, this is perhaps the most popular application of turmeric to date. It is abundant with a compound known as curcumin, which is basically the one responsible for the wealth of health benefits it can provide. It is believed to be abundant in antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it do wonders for your general state of health.

In recent studies, a lot have been said about how turmeric can aid in the prevention of the growth of cancer cells, delaying visible signs of aging, prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, treatment of skin problems, enhancing the immune system, improving cardiovascular health, treatment of depression and treatment of arthritis, among others.

To be effective when used as medication, it is important to take the right dosage of turmeric. Generally speaking, the right dose will depend on what is recommended by the manufacturer. To be sure, however, a better idea is to consult with a medical professional first before taking turmeric supplements. While it can be integrated in your diet, it will be hard to enjoy its full range of benefits as its nutritional value will be minimal. To maximize effectiveness, whole extracts should be consumed, which is found in supplements commercially available.

Treating Depression with the Use of Turmeric

When you are feeling down, you might be depressed. However, depression goes beyond such as it is a serious medical problem that can have negative impacts on the way you live your life, including productivity at work and how you deal with other people. According to health experts, some of the most common symptoms of depression include changes in sleeping patterns, loss of appetite, lack of stamina, irritability, hopelessness, and showing suicidal thoughts. Aside from psychotherapy, there are also prescribed medications for treating depression. However, the problem with these treatment options is the fact that they often resort into the adverse side effects. To prevent the latter, natural treatments are preferred, such as in the case of turmeric.

What Is Turmeric

Turmeric is a plant native in the South Asian region and used as a spice for curries. For thousands of years, more than its culinary applications, it has also been widely revered for its medicinal value. It is rich with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a common natural alternative for the treatment of arthritis. It is also believed to be highly influential in boosting the immune system, which makes it possible for the body to have better defense against a wide array of health problems. In research studies, turmeric has also been regarded as a viable alternative in dealing with depression.

Clinical Evidence

For those who might still be skeptic with regards to how turmeric can aid in the treatment of depression, it is worth taking a look at several clinical studies completed in the past. The latter have been accomplished to shed more light on how exactly the plant works in being able to combat depression, making it a good choice against medications. Many of these tests have been conducted in laboratory animals, with the same effect anticipated to be evident amongst humans as well.

In 2006, from a journal called Brain Research, laboratory rats have been given curcumin and have been exposed to chronic stress to possibly examine how it impacts depression.

Based on the conclusion of the study, the supplementation of curcumin reduces the depressive symptoms that are linked to stress. Although the effects have been proven, its impacts on human remains to be a subject under further testing.

In 2008, in a journal called Psychopharmacology, it has been found out that curcumin is also responsible for the increase in the production of serotonin, which minimizes depressive thoughts and symptoms.

In 2009, from the Scientific World Journal, the effects of curcumin in serotonin and dopamine have been also evaluated. The study has also showed favorable impacts, increasing clinical evidences proving the positive link between turmeric and depression.

Considerations

You can take turmeric in fluid, capsule, or powdered form. The dosage will be dependent on what is suggested by the manufacturer of the supplement. To be sure, it is critical to have medical consultation first. If you are using anti-coagulant and anti-platelet drugs, it is also important to inform your doctor first. Lastly, carefully evaluate the reputation of the manufacturer of turmeric supplements to be assured of its safety and effectiveness.

How Can Turmeric Promote Better Heath?

Curcuma Longa, or what is popularly known as turmeric, belongs to a family of ginger plants. In the past, Middle East and East India are just its users all around the globe, but it has now widely evolved into being one of the most known spices. Aside from the ability to provide food with unique flavoring, turmeric is also one of the most promising options for natural medicine. In several studies in the past, experts have agreed on its medicinal value, allowing it to provide a wealth of health benefits.

Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric contains high amounts of magnesium, Vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and Vitamin B6. It also provides the 16% daily iron requirement of the body and 26% of manganese. As a source of essential nutrients the body needs to be in its best state of health, there is no wonder turmeric is so popular. To be able to enjoy its health benefits, you do not need to eat a lot. One tablespoon will be enough. In fact, even when just mixed with your food, your body will already be able to absorb its nutrients.

Among other things, turmeric has been popular in Chinese and Indian medicine because of being abundant with anti-inflammatory properties. The main compound responsible for such is called curcumin.

According to a variety of studies, such compound can prove to be more powerful than the effects of commercial and prescribed medications. Many of the anti-inflammation drugs available in the market today can lead into adverse side effects, including internal bleeding, low white blood cell count, and ulcer. Turmeric does not contain any toxic chemical, making it lead into no side effects.

As an anti-inflammatory, turmeric has been linked to providing relief from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. With this powerful herb, joint swelling can be significantly reduced and mobility will be improved.

Aside from what has been discussed, turmeric is also good for the following:

Bloating and Gas
Psoriasis, Acne, Eczema, and Other Health Problems
Indigestion
Alzheimer’s Disease
Cancer
Cholesterol
Cardiovascular Problems

Different Studies on Turmeric

To be able to prove its effectiveness in alternative medicine, several studies have been conducted in the past. For instance, in one research, curcumin ointment combined with turmeric extract has been effective in providing relief for patients experiencing external lesions. In another study, in a skin damaged with ultraviolet radiation for a period of six weeks, turmeric extracts have been applied. In the end, the levels of skin sebum has been better and it also looked more hydrated. Because of this, there is a high possibility it is soon going to be a main ingredient in commercial cosmetic products. Significant studies have been also completed with regards to its ability to prevent the growth of cancer cells in the body, such as in the breast.

As it has been suggested by Hippocrates, the easiest way to take turmeric is to make it a part of your food to have a unique spice and flavor. This may seem gradual, but this is going to optimize its effects. In today’s time, there are also turmeric supplements, allowing the body to be provided with the nutrients it needs.

Turmeric – 20 Reasons Why!

20 Reasons Why Turmeric Should be Part of Your Diet

If you ask an expert in the field of alternative medicine about the best herbs with a wealth of health benefits, for sure, turmeric will be mentioned. Also known as Curcuma Longa, it is rich in a compound known as curcumin, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Keep on reading and you will know more about how it can help in your health in ways more than one.

As an antibacterial and antiseptic agent, it can help in the treatment of wounds and burns, allowing you to not suffer from infections.
Turmeric mixed with cauliflower can help in the prevention of prostate cancer. Even for those who already have prostate cancer, it can also help to stop it from getting worse.
Several studies have also noted how turmeric can be helpful in the prevention of the spread of breast cancer to lungs.
It is also known to be an effective agent in the prevention of melanoma.
For children, turmeric will also be good for the prevention of leukemia.
For many years, turmeric has also gained reputation as a popular choice for liver detox. The impurities in the liver can initiate a variety of health problems, which makes it important for such to be flushed out of the body.
Turmeric is also helpful in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. This works by removing the plaque in the brain that is responsible for the progression of the disease.
Many researches in the past have also supported claims on how turmeric prevents the growth of cancer cells.
Turmeric is also rich with potent anti-inflammatory problems, making it effective in the prevention of inflammation.
In a research that has been conducted in mice, it has been concluded that turmeric slows down multiple sclerosis progression.
As it is rich in COX-2 inhibitor, which makes is an effective painkiller, which does not contain toxic ingredients.
Turmeric is also a popular choice for weight management. When it is complemented with diet and exercise, this will help get rid of excess fats in the body.
In ancient Chinese medicine, this herb is also famous for the treatment of depression.
Because turmeric is abundant with anti-inflammatory compounds, it is considered to be effective in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Another benefit of turmeric is its ability to help enhance the effects of chemo medications. It also helps in the reduction of the possibility of suffering from adverse side effects.
Several studies have also been initiated to prove how this plant can be effective in the prevention of pancreatic cancer.
Another common subject tapped in recent studies deal with the ability of turmeric to aid in the treatment of multiple myeloma.
It is also believed that turmeric is effective in halting the development of new blood vessels in the tumor.
For many years, turmeric has also gained a favorable reputation for its cosmetic applications. It can prevent the breakout of acne and can also be an excellent exfoliating agent.
With its ability to fight inflammation, turmeric has been a common ingredient in supplements meant for treating psoriasis. When used in supplements, it is often available on 250 to 500 milligrams pills.

Turmeric As A Promising Treatment for Cancer

For many years, experts in the field of medicine have been in an incessant search for the most promising treatments for different types of cancer. In spite of the developments in research studies, there is still no conclusive findings as to which one is going to be the best. In this case, a good way to deal with cancer is to resort into the use of natural alternatives like turmeric. The latter is a plant native to the Southeast Asian region and has gained popularity as a spice. Nonetheless, in thousands of years in Chinese and Indian medicine, it has been a staple in treating various health problems. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of research studies noting how this herb can be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of cancer.

How Turmeric Helps in Treatment of Cancer

The main compound found in turmeric is known as curcumin, which is basically the one responsible for the wonders it can do for cancer. In 2007, one study has found out that rather than treat cancer just with chemotherapy, it should be coupled with the use of curcumin, which is expected to increase its effectiveness. The following are some of the ways by which turmeric aids in the prevention of cancer:

The curcumin helps in enzyme inhibition, which also halts the growth of tumors in the body. Therefore, it directly interferes with the possible development of cancer cells.
The abundance of free radicals in the body is known to be one of the leading factors influencing the growth of cancer. Curcumin is known to be antioxidant, which triggers the neutralization of free radicals in the cells.
In a study using mice as the subject, there has been a 40% reduction in the growth of benign tumors. The tumor that is presence in the subject of the study developed because of the tumors triggering the development of colon cancer in humans.
In another experiment with mice, the effectiveness of curcumin extract has been proven in the reduction of tumors in prostate cancer. The group of mice that has been treated with curcumin showed 70% recovery.
In spite of the claims on how curcumin is effective in cancer treatment and prevention, it is important to note that not study has used humans as subjects, making it hard to verify the claims.

Research in Recent Years

In one in vitro study conducted at the Stanford University and University of South Dakota, ovarian cancer cells respond better to treatments when curcumin extracts are also consumed. In addition, recent studies have also made it possible for turmeric to be made available in tablet or capsule form, making it easier to have it a part of your daily diet.

Through having it consumed as a dietary supplement, you will be able to enjoy its wealth of benefits. Nonetheless, to be assured of not experiencing any adverse side effects, make sure only the right dosage is taken. It should not be also consumed during pregnancy. It will be best to consult with a medical professional first to avoid any problems.