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.

Turmeric: A Powerful Healing Herb

When thinking of herbs with a wealth of medical applications, one of the most commonly mentioned is turmeric. Its scientific name is Curcuma Longa and it is known as Kunyit by the Malay, Haridra in Sanskrit, and Jiang Huang in Chinese. It is abundant with natural polyphenol known as curcumin, which is also the one responsible for its wide array of health benefits. Some of the most abundant nutrients in this plant include dietary fibers, potassium, manganese, and iron. Given the medicinal properties of the herb, there is no wonder why there is an influx in the number of people who are turning into the use of turmeric supplements. This makes it easy for the body to take advantage of its many benefits in manner that is not only effective, but also safe.

Protection for the Liver

Several studies in the past have supported the assertion of how turmeric can have a favorable effect on the health of the liver. Toxins, alcohol, and even medications can all have negative impacts on your liver and can be a reason for its deterioration and malfunctioning. In this case, turmeric can prove to be promising as it helps in the creation of a digestive juice, which is responsible for the promotion of the proper digestion of fats.

Treatment of Skin Problems

Back in the ancient times, there are no topical creams and medications that can help in promoting better skin health. This is the reason why many people often resort into the use of turmeric, especially in the cases of eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It is also known to be an excellent exfoliating agent, which can be considered as a viable natural alternative to the products using toxic chemicals, which may be harsh on the skin.

Prevention of Inflammation

Another reason for the popularity of turmeric as a wonder herb is its anti-inflammation properties. This is why it is taken by people who are experiencing muscle sprains, arthritis, and other problems related to inflammation. To be able to use it for the treatment of inflammation, one teaspoon can just be simply mixed with tea or with hot water and should be consumed as a drink. To maximize its effectiveness, adding ginger will also prove to be helpful.

Boost for the Immune System

It is important to give the immune system a boost to be able to increase the defense of the body against different health problems. It should be noted that the immune system is the cornerstone of both your health and longevity, which makes it important to invest in it. With turmeric, your immunity will be stronger and you will be less likely a candidate for different health problems.

Prevents Free Radical Damage

Turmeric is also reputed as a potent antioxidant, which allows the prevention of free radical damage. This is responsible for promoting better health of the cells. As an antioxidant, like berries and green tea, this herb is excellent in terms of providing better cardiovascular health and prevention of different types of cancer.

As an antioxidant, this also makes it excellent for the maintenance of young-looking skin through the years.

Curcumin – The Facts

Curcumin- What you didn’t know about it

There is an African saying that goes, “Don’t go to Sokoto to look for what is already in your shokoto”. Sokoto is a business center in Nigeria and shokoto are trousers. This adage is used to show people that many times the solutions they are seeking “out there” are right “in here”, in their shokotos.

Likewise there are many medicinal benefits that we forfeit in our bodies by looking them “out there” in the “Sokotos” of complex medical science b and yet they are readily available in the plants that we interact with daily. One such plant or spice is the turmeric, from which we get the miracle substance called curcumin.

What is Curcumin?

c its color, culinary and medicinal value and strength. It is extracted from the root of the turmeric plant. Though it makes up for only 3% of the total mass of turmeric,yet without it turmeric will not “remain turmeric”.

Health benefits of Curcumin

Detoxification-this substance contains molecular properties that have detoxifying capabilities. This means it removes toxic elements from your body that are can cause body fatal dysfunctions including the growth of cancer cells. This capability cuts across all forms of cancer.

Curbing inflammation in the body-curcumin has the capacity to aid in the decrease of inflammation in the body. Inflammation in itself can create a conducive environment for the other disease processes to take place e.g. the growth of cancer cells.
Prevention of Alzheimer’s disease-this is a disease for which even our modern medical science has not been able to find a cure.Research has shown that in those countries where people consume curcumin in heir diets(through turmeric spice),there are lower cases of Alzheimer’s disease compared to those where it is not.
Blood sugar stability– curcumin is also known to have the ability to stabilize blood sugar levels. It contains Curcuminoid polyphenols, which are its primary antioxidant in the turmeric root. When blood sugar is not balanced, the body is stands vulnerable to all forms of inflammatory conditions.
Combating obesity-this benefit is due to its ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Many cases of obesity are directly associated with diabetes while diabetes as a disease is directly associated with blood sugar levels that are left uncontrolled and unregulated and , which curcumin lends a helping hand in regulating and stabilizing these sugar levels in the blood.
Joint pain relief-this natural spice is also known to help in relieving joint pains associated with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Heart health and protection-since curcumin fights inflammation, which is a key culprit in many heart diseases, its intake has a big share in maintaining a healthy heart.

Recent studies have indicated that curcumin protects heart functions and strengthens the body’s own internal repair systems after suffering a heart attack. It also reduces triglycerides and cholesterol level and for that reason it imparts immense benefits to your circulatory system.

Conclusion

Curcumin may not be panacea to all medical conditions, but it goes a long way in helping to secure your health, especially at the preventive level. This is because the health benefits associated with it protect and benefit the vital organs such as the heart and vital metabolic processes the likes of sugar regulation and deoxidization.

Turmeric as a Health Supplement

Scientific research has discovered well over 300 active ingredients in Turmeric that have powerful effects in the body. In fact, Turmeric is considered to be the greatest of all herbs by some practitioners. In Ayurveda, the practice of traditional Indian medicine, turmeric is prescribed for just about everything — from cuts and grazes, to respiratory ailments, liver disease, gas, bloating, digestive illness, the heart, as an anti-septic and more. The active ingredients in Turmeric — Curcuma longa — are a group of plant substances called curcuminoids. Through its antioxidant mechanisms, curcumin supports colon health, exerts neuroprotective activity and helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. Curcumin:

is very useful in joint related concerns
helps maintain a normal cholesterol and a healthy heart.
is very helpful as a digestive support.
is extremely helpful in liver protection.
is also used in controlling obesity.
induces the flow of bile, which breaks down fats.
acts as an anti-inflammatory agent that relieves the aches and pains associated with arthritis.

Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is generally considered safe as it has been used by generations of people as both a dye and healing compound, as it is believed to be a strong anti-inflammatory agent. As a natural antibacterial and antiseptic, it can be used as a disinfectant.

It has been shown that you can speed up the body’s healing process simply by sprinkling some turmeric powder on a burn or cut. Several skin conditions, such as psoriasis, have been successfully treated with turmeric.

Many other conditions such as colic, jaundice, bruises, chest pain and menstrual pain have responded well to treatments with curcumin, an active agent that can be extracted from turmeric. Curcumin gives turmeric a number of its beneficial features. Turmeric also provides many daily-recommended nutrients, including manganese, iron, B6, fiber, copper and potassium.

Additionally, turmeric contains agents that help strengthen the immune system, lessening the chances of coughs, flus and colds. The anti-inflammatory results derived from turmeric have been compared to some prescription drugs, such as hydrocortisone and over-the-counter agents such as ibuprofen. Unlike those chemical compounds, turmeric has demonstrated no measurable toxic side effects, while side effects such as ulcers, bleeding or a decrease in white blood cell count have all been effects attributed to the prescription drugs that are comparable to turmeric.

Free radicals are chemicals that course through the body causing damage to healthy cells. They are reportedly responsible for arthritis, causing damage to joints and joint inflammation, as well as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Clinical studies have demonstrated that curcumin, with its status as a powerful anti-oxidant, can assist in neutralizing them. Other animal studies suggest that curcumin may prevent other cancers, including prostate, colon and breast cancer, as well as T-cell leukemia.

Remember, There are a variety of products on the market and sorting through them and selecting the best one for your needs can be confusing. Many companies trying to cash in on trends do not really care about the quality of their product, therefore their products may be ineffective.

Turmeric and Acne

Turmeric is a root that looks much like ginger root. The actual root is sold at health-minded grocery stores such as Whole Foods and it is very expensive! However, it may be worth the price as it has lots of health benefits. It’s much more commonly found in a powdered spice form and you can get it in the spice aisle of just about any grocery store. It is also available as a health supplement in capsule, powder or tea form. Turmeric has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and wide ranging benefits. It is also a tasty herb. Turmeric is valued for more than just its cooking uses. The herb has been used in the Ayurvedic healing tradition for centuries. Curcuminoids found in turmeric benefit joints and other tissues by helping to neutralize free-radicals. Through its antioxidant mechanisms, curcumin supports colon health, exerts neuroprotective activity and helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

Turmeric is known to:

Reduce inflammation. This is turmeric’s shining quality – it’s incredibly anti inflammatory. Acne is inflammation, so you definitely want this for your skin!
Detoxify your liver. People with severe liver problems should consult a doctor before trying to take turmeric supplements.
Fight free radicals. Free radicals disrupt and damage the sebum and cells in your skin.
Sooth the digestive tract. Believe it or not many acne problems start with poor digestion.

As with any health supplement, if you truly want to get the medicinal properties out of turmeric, it’s best to use it consistently — at least a spoonful or two per day. It has a vaguely pungent bitter flavour, but the flavor is not overly strong. You can add it to your food whenever it makes sense. Since it has such a bright yellow color, it can make your food look much more fun and exotic! This is especially true of rice dishes. Vegetarians like to mix turmeric with tofu to make fake scrambled eggs as the bright yellow color of turmeric lends itself perfectly to this.

Turmeric for Your Skin

If you want to, you can apply turmeric directly to your skin as a mask, and it can help with inflammation and acne scars on the face. You can mix it with a bit of honey and lemon juice, or perhaps aloe vera gel, and apply it to the skin — let it sit for a while, and gently wash it off. However one user reported:

I have to warn you though, this can turn your skin a bit yellow! I tried it once, and when I washed it off I thought I thought that I was in the clear on the yellow front… but the next day, in brighter sunlight, my mom asked me what was on my face. Knowing that she had more tact than to point out an acne blemish, I inquired further as to what she was talking about, and it turned out that ‘it look like I had jaundice’. Soo…. be careful! hahah … if you dare to venture into the world of turmeric masks, I would suggest maybe leaving it on for only ten to fifteen minutes as opposed to the half hour or so I had let mine sit.