Health Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric has a long ancient medicinal history, especially in Ayurvedic and ancient Indian medicine. Commonly referred to as haldi, turmeric is a staple ingredient in authentic Indian curries. Although a very aromatic spice with a deep rich colour surpassed by none, turmeric goes beyond a regular spice. The health benefits of turmeric are immense. In fact, the health benefits of turmeric have been confirmed in both eastern and western medicine.
Recently, there has been a lot of scientific research being conducted on the health properties of turmeric, especially the effects of the active compound curcumin. Some of the properties confirmed include being anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and natural antiseptic properties. Recent scientific literature also confirms the benefits of turmeric on the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
Turmeric is a source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, niacin, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese, omega 3 fatty acids, omega 6 fatty acids and phytosterols.
Turmeric and Cancer Prevention
Curcumin has been given much attention on its possible ability to help treat and fight cancer. Curcumin may directly help inhibit the growth of tumours present in the prostate, lung and breast. Curcumin may also be effective in its ability to prevent the formation of cancerous growths. If cancer is already present in the system, curcumin may help slow the growth and spread of the cancerous cells.
Turmeric and Alzheimer’s Disease
Many scientific studies indicate that turmeric plays a significant role in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The credit primarily goes to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin. Curcumin may help reduce amyloid levels and plaque burden. The active ingredients are curcuminoids, which help treat Alzheimer’s disease. Turmeric has also been shown to slow the progression of this neuro-degenerative disease.
Turmeric and Anti-inflammatory Properties
The powerful anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric have long been realised in ancient Indian and Ayurvedic medicine. Again, it is the presence of curcumin that gives turmeric the anti-inflammatory properties. Research on curcumin suggests that the anti-inflammatory potential of turmeric is on par to some of the potent inflammatory medicines out there on the market today. Turmeric may also be effective in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, as well as arthritis. However, much more evidence is still required.
Powerful Antioxidant Potential
Curcumin is what gives turmeric its antioxidant abilities. Antioxidants actively neutralize free radicals in the system, preventing cellular damage. Antioxidants act to protect the body from many chronic conditions, including heart disease, stroke, arthritis, atherosclerosis and inflammations.
Help Lower Cholesterol
The intake of turmeric may help lower cholesterol levels. Curcumin as the active agent, turmeric has been shown to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol on the system.
Traditional Uses of Turmeric:
- Turmeric is often consumed and used as a natural detox. It is believed that turmeric helps clean the system of dangerous toxins from the body buy improving liver function.
- Turmeric is a natural antiseptic. The powder is often places over cuts and bruises so to avoid infection.
- It is believed that adding a bit of turmeric to milk will boost and improve bone health.
- Turmeric pastes are often made and applied to the skin to even tone, improve complexion and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
In addition, other natural therapy options for specific health conditions are discussed, so you can put all the best therapies to work for you. Herbs