Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric has been used over many hundreds of years in India as an ayurvedic medicine. Because of its medicinal properties, it has become widely popular all over the world. Turmeric is a perennial herb that is grown in various parts of India and other tropical Asian countries. Curcumin (diferuloylmethane), the active yellow ingredient of turmeric has been found to have a wide range of biological actions such as antioxidant, anti inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, anticoagulant, antiviral, antivenom, antiseptic, hypotensive, and hypocholesteremic actions. All these properties make this herb, a natural wonder. It has been proven to offer several health benefits and is used for the treatment of many diseases.
Given below is a list of the various benefits of turmeric:
- Turmeric has natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties which make it useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.
- It also has anti-inflammatory properties and unlike many other anti-inflammatory medicines, does not cause any side effects. Turmeric acts by lowering the levels of histamine and stimulating the adrenal glands to increase production of a hormone that decreases inflammation. Therefore it can be used in the treatment of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases.
- Turmeric is also a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that inhibit the oxidation of other molecules thereby protecting cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that cause damage to the cells as they traverse through the body. These molecules cause premature aging and serious diseases such as cancer.
- It also shows antiplatelet properties by reducing the formation of blood clots thus improving blood circulation. It also reduces the risks of heart attacks and strokes.
- It acts as a natural pain killer and cox-2 inhibitor. Cox-2 is an enzyme responsible for causing pain and inflammation.
- It speeds up the process of wound healing and helps in fixing damaged skin. Regular application of turmeric on your skin can help balance out your skin tone and color.
- Turmeric is a natural liver detoxifier. Studies reveal that turmeric guards the liver from the damage caused by various toxins, including alcohol.
- It can be used as a treatment for digestive problems, dysentery, infections, fever, jaundice and other liver problems.
- Curcumin may help in regulating the blood sugar level, thus reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Experiments suggest that a combination of curcumin and vitamin D may trigger the immune system to get rid of amyloid beta from the brain. Amyloid beta is a substance that is found to be the main element of amyloid plaques (deposits found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease). Turmeric therefore can be used effectively in preventing and slowing down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by removing amyloid plaque.
- Studies suggest that curcumin has anti-cancer properties. Experiments have shown that it destroys some types of cancer cells such as human leukemia cells. However, more research is required to conclude the turmeric benefits as a potential anti-cancer agent.
- Research has shown that Curcumin has the ability to reduce the risk of breast cancer among women undergoing hormone replacement therapy during menopause.
- Studies also indicate that curcumin slows down the growth of skin cancer, melanoma and also inhibits the spread of breast cancer into the lungs.
- Turmeric when taken with cauliflower has been found to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.
- It increases the rate of fat metabolism by stimulating the flow of bile. This action makes it suitable as a digestive aid and also for weight management.
- Traditional Chinese medicine made use of turmeric for treating depression, liver and gallbladder problems, chest congestion and menstrual discomforts.
- It is used as a spice in various cuisines to impart color and flavor to the food.
The possible turmeric benefits are innumerable. It is available all over the world in the form of capsules, tinctures, lotions, ointments and powder. Although turmeric is generally considered a safe herb and has no known side-effects, when consumed in excess, is likely to cause stomach upset and other gastrointestinal disturbances. Pregnant women are not recommended to consume turmeric as it may cause uterine contractions. People with gallstones or bile passage obstruction should speak with a physician before using turmeric therapeutically.