Turmeric

Turmeric, extracted from the Rhizomes of Curcuma Longa plant, has been used for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb originated from India and other Asian countries. Curcuminoids are known as the active ingredients of Turmeric and the main active compound is called Curcumin.

In fact, Curcumin has tremendous healing potential in many areas of disease because of its ability to mitigate inflammation; it is the most abundant flavonoid in nature and is one of the most studied cancer fighting spices.

Multiple studies have shown that Curcumin inhibits the growth of many cancers, bone cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, brain cancer, colon, liver, pancreatic, stomach, bladder, kidney, prostate, and ovarian cancers. It is a powerful antioxidant and helps regulate abnormal immune function, reduces inflammation, benefits metabolic syndrome, and defends against infection.

For years, pharmaceutical companies have been trying to make a drug that mimic Curcumin composition and its physiological pathways but did not succeed.

 

Here’s some of its benefits:

• It improves Brain Health and prevents Alzheimer’s
• Reduces Inflammation levels
• Prevents Cancer
• Relieves Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Supports Liver Health
• Improves Digestion and Insulin Sensitivity
• Boosts Immune system
• Increases Metabolism and prevents Obesity
• Accelerates Healing processes
• Lowers Cholesterol level

 

How to consume Turmeric in our diet?

Actually, it can be consumed in many ways like teas, soups, broths, salads, smoothies, stews or marinade for chicken and other meat dishes.

Note that Black Pepper enhances the absorption of Turmeric by 2000% in our body. So, whenever it’s possible, add black pepper to this amazing spice.

For example, here’s a tasty Salad dressing recipe I use frequently (you can prepare your dressing in a jar, refrigerate it, and use it the whole week):

• ¼ cup Extra virgin Olive Oil
• 3 tbsp. Apple Vinegar
• 1 Lemon (juiced)
• 1 tbsp. Mustard
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• ½ tsp Turmeric
• Pinch of Salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp Ginger Powder

 

To prepare Turmeric tea:

• Boil 2 cups of water
• Add 1 teaspoons of turmeric and stir
• Simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes
• Strain the tea and drink.
• You can add Lemon juice, slice of Orange or a bit of Organic Honey.

 

Caution

• Check with your doctor before drinking turmeric tea if you have gallbladder inflammation, gallbladder stones, ulcers, or diabetes.
• Stop drinking turmeric tea two weeks before any surgery cause turmeric is a blood thinner.
• Do not drink if you are already on blood thinners medication.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Turmeric is one of the healthiest superfoods on Earth; it has a lot of anti-inflammatory, antioxidants and anti-cancer benefits. Therefore, consider adding it to your favorite recipes. However, people who are taking blood thinners, or have diabetes, stomach ulcers, or gallbladder issues, should better talk to their physician first.

Resources: Healthline.com, Sciencedirect.com, Square One Beat Cancer
Photo: Tamanna Rumee.