posted by Robin

Turmeric is an inexpensive spice with super powers. It has been used for thousands of years to treat arthritis and many other ailments. In studies it has shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties.

About – Turmeric is a rhizome of a herbaceous perennial plant related to ginger. It is native to tropical South Asia. The rhizomes are sold and used fresh or dried and ground into a deep yellow-orange powder. It has an earthy, slightly bitter taste. They are often used in curries and give mustard, and sometimes butter and cheeses their yellow color. It was first used as a dye and then later for its medicinal properties. Turmeric has been used in India for over 2500 years and has been used in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory, to treat digestive and liver problems, skin diseases, and wounds.

Nutrition – Turmeric is high in vitamins C, E, powerful antioxidants and riboflavin (B2), niacin  and pyridoxine (B6). It has an abundance of minerals like potassium, iron, calcium, manganese, copper, zinc, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps to control blood pressure. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Iron is required for red blood cells productions.

Curcumin, a polyphenol, is the active substance of turmeric and the principal pigment that gives turmeric its deep orange color. Research studies show curcumin to inhibit the multiplication of tumor cells including multiple myeloma, pancreatic cancer, and colon cancer. Curcumin is known as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, known to be helpful against arthritis. It also stops platelets from clumping together to form blood clots. It has been used to ease aches and pains and has many medicinal uses.
It is made up of 5 percent curcumin and 5 percent of essential oils. These oils, such as termerone, curlone, curumene, cineole, and p-cymene also contain many health benefits. Early laboratory studies have been suggestive that turmeric is liver protective and has anti-depressant effects.  This inexpensive spice is readily available and has beneficial medicinal uses and its anti-oxidant strength is one of the highest among known herbs and spices. Just a little turmeric a day can help protect you from a multitude of conditions, including: anemia, memory disorders, cancers, infectious diseases, high blood pressure and strokes.