Turmeric is one of the main spices in curry, and it is also a close relative to ginger. Not only does it can add a lot of flavor and color to your meal, but it is one of the easiest ways to add several health benefits to your meal as well. There are many health benefits of turmeric, ranging from alleviating liver problems, depression and ring worm as a folk remedy. Though turmeric is mostly used in folk remedies, it does not mean that the health benefits of turmeric are discredited as there have been many research studies that back up the claims.
10 Great Turmeric Health Benefits
1. Prevent Cancer
One of the turmeric health benefits is that it has been known to help prevent prostate cancer. It has even been shown to stop the growth and even destroy the prostate cancer cells. The healthy nutrients and vitamins in turmeric also make it effective against radiation-induced tumors, T-cell leukemia, colon carcinomas and breast cancer cells.
2. Slow the Progression of Alzheimer's Disease
Turmeric improves your overall brain health by helping remove plaque buildup. Removing the plaque in turn improves the flow of oxygen within the brain.
3. Detox the Liver
One of the many turmeric health benefits is that it naturally increases the livers production of vital enzymes. These enzymes are what the body uses to break down the toxins within your body. Along with detoxifying the liver, turmeric is a great aid in improving your blood's circulation.
4. Relieve Arthritis Pain
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that have been known to relieve arthritis pain in both types—osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The antioxidants in turmeric also make it a great way to relieve joint pain by destroying the free radicals within the body that damage its cells.
5. Moderate Diabetic Insulin Levels
A turmeric health benefit is that it has been shown to help moderate insulin levels in diabetics. It also helps prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes by improving the body's glucose control and increasing the effect of medications used. Be sure that you consult your physician first as when combined with strong medications, it may cause low blood sugar.
6. Lower Cholesterol
Adding a little turmeric to your food helps lower serum cholesterol levels. By helping you control your cholesterol levels, it doubles its health benefits and helps prevent several cardiovascular diseases as well.
7. Help Wounds Heal
The natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties in turmeric make it a great option for disinfecting wounds. One can speed up the healing of a cut or burn by sprinkling a little turmeric on the infected areas. If you have other inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, turmeric can also help in the relieving the condition.
8. Boost Your Immune System
The lipopolysaccharide in turmeric helps improve your body's immune system by strengthening it with its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agents. Even though you will have few colds and flus, you may still get one. When you do, mix a teaspoon of turmeric with a glass of warm milk and you will begin to feel better in a few days.
9. Treat Digestive Problems
Turmeric contains many elements that aid in increasing bile production in the gallbladder, which helps relieve the symptoms of gas and bloating. Other inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, can be treated by consuming raw turmeric on a daily basis.
10. Help Manage Weight
One of the touted health benefits of turmeric is that it aids in weight management. There is an agent in turmeric that improves the flow of bile which helps your body break down dietary fats. Adding a teaspoon of turmeric to every meal can greatly improve your weight loss efforts.
How to Use Turmeric
Along with all the great health benefits of turmeric, it comes all the great flavor. Many Asian countries have been using turmeric as a part of their culinary efforts for years. Below are some simple ways you can begin enjoying the turmeric health benefits.
1. Season Your Food
Turmeric is a spice that can be added to just about any food to add a new flavor. Add a kick to some cooked vegetables, eggs or meats. You can also add it to water when making rice, pasta or soups to reap all the health benefits.
2. Make Tea
Boil 4 cups of water, add 1 teaspoon of turmeric, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Strain the mixture, add some honey or lemon, and enjoy a cup of hot tea.
3. Add Turmeric Supplements
There are many turmeric supplements that you can add to your daily routine instead of using the raw spice.
4. Create a Skin Detox
Mix the turmeric powder with some castor oil for a great skin moistener. This works well as a great detox for your skin.