A Teaspoon of Turmeric a Day…

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A Teaspoon of Turmeric a Day…

Why we love turmeric (and you should, too!)

By Siarra T. Mong

tumeric

Turmeric is a culinary spice that has been used for 4,000 years by many cultures. It’s the main ingredient in Indian curries, American mustard, cheese, and butter that give these staples their yellow hue. The evidence is accumulating that this brightly colored relative of ginger may help fight infections, help in the fight against some cancers, reduce inflammation, and treat digestive problems.

It is a promising disease-preventive agent as well, probably due largely to its anti-inflammatory action. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant which helps to remove the cell-damaging free radicals from your system. In addition, curcumin lowers the levels of two enzymes in the body that cause inflammation. Also, it stops platelets from clumping together to form unwanted blood clots.

Research suggests that turmeric may be helpful for the following conditions:

Indigestion or Dyspepsia

Turmeric stimulates the gallbladder to produce bile, which some people think may help improve digestion. Additionally, it helps to reduce symptoms of bloating, and gas in people suffering from indigestion.

Ulcerative colitis

Turmeric may help people with ulcerative colitis stay in remission.

Osteoarthritis

Turmeric’s ability to reduce inflammation has many researchers believing it may help relieve osteoarthritis pain. One study found that people using an Ayurvedic formula of herbs, and minerals with turmeric, winter cherry, Boswellia, and zinc had less pain, and disability.

Heart Disease

Early studies suggested that turmeric may help prevent atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque that can block arteries and lead to heart attack or stroke. The animal studies seem promising in reducing cholesterol levels, and keeping LDL (bad) cholesterol from building up in blood vessels. Since it stops platelets from clumping together, turmeric may also prevent blood clots from building up along the walls of arteries.

Cancer

There is evidence that turmeric may help prevent or treat several types of cancers, including prostate, breast, skin, and colon cancer. Turmeric’s preventive effects may relate to its antioxidant properties, which protect cells from damage.

Bacterial and Viral Infections

There is strong evidence from animal, and test tube studies that turmeric may kill bacteria, and viruses.

Uveitis

Preliminary research suggests that curcumin may be as effective as corticosteroids, the type of medication usually prescribed to treat uveitis, and eye inflammation.

Neurodegenerative Conditions

Turmeric’s powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and circulatory effects may help prevent, and treat neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, multiple sclerosis, and other conditions.

How can I get more turmeric into my diet to benefit my health?

Suggested Usage
  • Cut root: 1.5 to 3 g per day
  • Dried, powdered root: 1 to 3 g per day
  • Standardized powder (curcumin): 400 to 600 mg, 3 times per day
  • Fluid extract (1:1) 30 to 90 drops a day
  • Tincture (1:2): 15 to 30 drops, 4 times per day
But the most delicious way to add turmeric into your diet is mixed into a delicious meal like turmeric eggs, curried carrot soup, or turmeric tea. The opportunities to add turmeric to your daily meal plan is an easy addition, and one that will benefit the whole family.

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