Turmeric : The yellow herb
Turmeric is a yellow spice that is used a great deal in Indian cuisine. Its history of use in India and China spans hundreds of years and these cultures have received its many health benefits without even realizing just how powerful it was.
Turmeric benefits have been known for centuries and have always been an important part of Chinese herbal medicine and also the Ayurvedic medicine of India. This natural food is believed to support liver health, help prevent bad cholesterol, and it is being studied for its ability to block tumors.
BENEFITS OF TUMERIC:
· Turmeric is useful in preventing and blocking the growth of cancer such as melanoma tumor cells, breast cancer, colon cancer and other cancers.
· Turmeric extract include a reputation for supporting healthy skin care, healthy cholesterol levels, and liver and gallbladder health and possible joint pain relief through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
· The antioxidant power of turmeric is so effective that it actually helps preserve the shelf life of foods.
· Turmeric reduces fats; aids blood circulation and purifies it.
· Bowel Cancer Patients
Where turmeric is frequently used, the chances of colon cancer are very much lower. At the moment, UK cancer specialists are testing oral turmeric capsules to be taken by colon cancer patients.
· Arthritis Pain
Turmeric can also be used in reducing pain associated with arthritis. This is how you can do it at home. Warm a cup of milk. Before it boils, remove it from the heat and add in a teaspoon of turmeric powder in it. Stir and drink it for up to 3 times daily.
· Digestive Problems
Studies among animals prescribed with it suggest that turmeric acts as digestive stimulant and encourages the release of digestive enzymes that breaks down carbohydrates and fats. Thus, if you always have stomach upset, turmeric tea may be a good idea.
· Prostate Cancer
When combined with certain vegetables, this substance holds good potential in treating and preventing prostate cancer. Scientists in New Jersey have shown that turmeric alongside a particular substance found in vegetables like broccoli, kale, turnips and cabbage would ensure protection against this dreaded disease.
· Heart Problems
A study done in 1992 has showed that turmeric may be able to reduce cholesterol level and fight arteriosclerosis. Preliminary studies in mice have also shown its potential in blocking the development of multiple sclerosis (MS).
· Smokers
A small clinical trial conducted in 1992 showed that 1.5 g of turmeric taken daily for a period of a month could decrease the amount of mutagens (substance that helps cancerous mutation in cells). In the study, even the urines of smokers were found to be lower in mutagens (when they were given daily ration of turmeric) compared to non-smoker subjects.