The 7 Wonders Of Turmeric You Should Know
Hailing from Southeast India and Asia, the turmeric plant is a member of the ginger family. As such, it is a perennial flowering plant which needs warm temperatures as well as plenty of rain in order to grow. The turmeric spice that we know is made from drying out the plant and turning it into a powder.
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Physically, turmeric powder has a distinct yellow color which is used as a dye and as a flavoring for food. It is also used as a cheaper substitute for saffron. However, this humble spice offers many health benefits.
Many of these are not new, but we seem to be constantly uncovering more uses of this golden spice known from ancient times. Through extensive research into its pharmacological use, the wonder of turmeric is spreading, for the many benefits, it can provide in treating and reducing many symptoms related to various health conditions.
The 7 Wonders Of Turmeric You Should Know
Growing Turmeric
Wondering if you can grow this tropical plant at home? People have found success growing turmeric in the US, although if you don’t live in a warm climate, it is best to grow it indoors. Even if you do grow it outside, you should consider planting turmeric in a pot to ensure the soil is warm enough.
Growing turmeric doesn’t mean you need to plant seeds. Many find buying a turmeric rhizome to be easier to find. Any grocery store or organic market which sells ginger rhizomes may also carry turmeric rhizomes as well.
In order to make sure you buy one which will plant successfully, buy a rhizome with ‘eyes’ and plant it immediately so it doesn’t dry out. If the soil is not warm enough, it will take time for the plant to sprout. For example, if you plant in November, you may not see anything happening until April. Therefore, most people recommend planting during Spring time.
The Amazing Benefits Of Turmeric
Turmeric is more than merely a spice used in cooking, it also offers several benefits to your health. Some of them include:
1
Inhibits Cancer
Turmeric is packed with antioxidants which protect cell DNA, keeping it healthy. Turmeric aids in inhibiting the growth pathways in some cancer cells. Therefore, although turmeric is no cure for cancer, it can amend the body in such a way that it is less prone to cancer.
This is because the main component of turmeric, curcumin, manipulates the genes needed for tumor development. In addition, when turmeric is combined with cauliflower, it can help to slow down the progress of prostate cancer.
2
Protects The Liver Against Damage
The liver detoxifies the body. Following an unhealthy diet and taking certain medications can damage the liver. What turmeric does is to boost the function of the liver, therefore supporting the detoxification process.
3
Benefits For Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
As turmeric is high in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, it can reduce inflammation in the joints, which would otherwise cause damage to the bones. Turmeric, unlike other chemical products, is not accompanied by toxic side effects.
4
Alleviates Skin Disorders
Turmeric alleviates skin disorders such as psoriasis and acne, in order to heal damaged skin. There are even recipes using turmeric for face masks which claim to bring out a natural facial glow.
5
Natural Antiseptic And Antibacterial Agent
This spice may be used to disinfect and treat burns and cuts. In fact, turmeric can inhibit various types of bacteria, for instance, staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and E. coli, as well as some fungi such as Candida albicans and dermatophytes.
6
Aids Heart Health
Turmeric aids in lowering cholesterol levels, in particular, the LDL cholesterol levels that may be harmful to the arteries. Turmeric increases LDL-receptors that allow the liver to remove LDL from the body. Furthermore, this spice reduces the risk of clots forming with the blood vessels, thereby minimizing the possibility of a heart attack.
7
Manages Weight Loss
Curcumin, the principal ingredient found in turmeric, can help speed up metabolism. This is great news for anyone looking for a natural way to lose weight.
8
Protects Against Neurological Diseases
Curcumin acts by switching on the gene codes responsible for the production of antioxidant proteins. This, in turn, provides protection against certain neurological and age-related diseases. In addition, this spice may reduce the development of Alzheimer’s disease. This is because turmeric slows beta-amyloid plaque buildup in the brain.
9
Can Fight Depression
Incredibly, there is a study that was done showing the efficacy of treating depression with curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. While this does not mean anyone on antidepressants should abandon their prescribed medication, it does lead the way for more studies to be done. Having a natural, plant-based solution is appealing to many people who are wary of strong drugs.
Are There Any Side Effects From Taking Turmeric?
Turmeric is relatively safe. However, there are some dangers that should be mentioned. Firstly, pregnant women should not take this spice as it can stimulate uterine contractions. Secondly, a mild side effect of this spice is nausea and diarrhea.
Thirdly, this spice may interact with certain prescribed medication, for instance, diabetes medication. Lastly, if you are planning to take turmeric as a supplement, as with any supplement, consult a doctor before embarking on its use.
Natural Supplement
Turmeric has gotten so popular that more and more people are taking it as a supplement for their health and general well-being. If you are looking to add it to your diet, do some research about manufacturers. The most trustworthy brands have laboratories in the US which are FDA approved.
Each supplement has its own criteria for being the most cost-effective. Peruse Consumer health review to read their comprehensive reports on different health supplements. Compare and contrast various brands to see which ones have the safest ingredients and deliver the most effective doses. In fact, take a look into private label supplement manufacturers in utah, and in other areas, to learn more about the different products that can be created using chosen ingredients and for specific purposes.
Final Note
Turmeric is more than a spice to add color and flavor to meals. This special plant offers many health benefits. Take it by adding it to your food, making a tea, or consuming it as a supplement. It is a spice that has limited side effects and could offer you many benefits.
About the Author Laura Bennett
Hello, I’m Laura Bennett. I love nature especially when it comes to flowers and different kinds of plants. I started a very small garden behind my house and I named it Humid Garden. So, I created this blog to provide aspiring and inspiring thoughts about gardening for gardeners and anyone who has the intention of keeping a garden.
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