Turmeric is a spice that comes from the ginger family and is native to tropical south Asia. One of the main constituents of this spice is curcumin which possesses numerous body and health benefits. You can buy it in a dried powder form at supermarkets, as supplements in health food stores, or fresh from Chinese or Indian supermarkets. Turmeric has been used for centuries in Chinese and Indian medicine. Read on for more about this ancient and now rediscovered orangey gem as we delve into the Top 5 Health Benefits of Turmeric!
1. Anti-Inflammatory
Curcumin and other chemicals in turmeric can decrease swelling and inflammation and it’s often been found beneficial for treating conditions that involving these. Any properties that can help fight chronic inflammation is also potentially important in preventing and treating diseases in the first place.
2. Anti-Bacterial
Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent that can be used as an effective disinfectant. It has antifungal properties and is used for disinfecting cuts or burns. It can be taken internally or applied directly to the skin. 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. Chinese medicine has used turmeric for infected wounds because of its antibacterial properties.
3. Boosts Immunity
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, flu or cough you can feel better sooner by mixing one teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drinking it once daily.
4. Digestion
Curcumin aids in the digestion process, and has been found prescribed in Germany for digestive problems. Some research also shows that turmeric may help with symptoms such as upset stomach, bloating and gas and reduce episodes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
5. Antioxidants
Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric is also a very strong antioxidant. Curcumin also boosts the activity of the body’s own antioxidant enzymes, to help prevent diseases caused from natural oxidative damage, believed to be a causative factor behind aging and age-related diseases. The main reason antioxidants are so beneficial, is that they protect our bodies from free radical induced cell damage which leads to nefarious diseases such as cancer.
Adding turmeric to your diet by way of turmeric pills, powder, or other supplement can help enhance your health in numerous ways. Try adding into any recipe you see fit, to increase your intake and assist your way to a healthier you. What has turmeric done for you lately? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. Check out some of these delicious turmeric recipes too!
