Curcuma longa, or turmeric, is a common herb dubbed the ‘Queen of Spices”. It has a golden color, sharp taste, and pepper-like aroma. It is used in worldwide cuisines.
The Journal of the American Chemical Society reports that turmeric includes a wide range of antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and anticarcinogenic properties. What’s more, it’s packed with various healthy nutrients like niacin, protein, vitamin C, E, K, fiber, iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, calcium, and potassium. Because of its content, turmeric is used as a natural remedy for all sorts of diseases.
These are the best ten health benefits of turmeric:
1. Prevention of cancer
This plant can prevent prostate cancer, stop the development of this cancer, and even kill cancer cells. Many researchers have discovered that its active components make it one of the most effective protectors against tumors induced by radiation. Turmeric also prevents tumor cells like colon carcinoma, T-cell leukemia, and breast carcinoma.
2. Arthritis Relief
Turmeric possesses great anti-inflammatory properties which are excellent for the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, the antioxidants in turmeric kill free radicals in the body which can cause cell damage. It has been proven that rheumatoid arthritis patients who consume this plant regularly, can relieve their moderate to mild joint inflammation and pain.
3. Diabetes Control
Turmeric can moderate the levels of insulin in the body. What’s more, it improves the control of glucose as well as the effect of diabetes drugs. Its ability to lower insulin resistance might help prevent Type-2 Diabetes. But if you plan to combine turmeric capsules with strong medications, consult your doctor as it can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
4. Reduced Levels of Cholesterol
According to research, using turmeric even as a spice can lower the levels of serum cholesterol. As we all know, high cholesterol levels can cause other serious health issues. If you maintain a normal level of cholesterol, you will prevent several cardiovascular diseases.
5. Improved Immune System
The lipopolysaccharide substance present in turmeric stimulates the immune system. The antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of turmeric further improve the immune system. If you have a strong immune system, your chances of getting colds, flu, and coughs are significantly reduced. In case you already have flu, cold, or cough, drink one glass of warm milk with a teaspoon of turmeric powder and you will feel better.
6. Wound Healing
Turmeric is an effective disinfectant thanks to its present antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Just sprinkle some turmeric powder on your cut or burn, and you will hasten the healing process. Moreover, turmeric helps in the treatment of Healthline, repairs damaged skin, etc.
7. Weight Management
If you want to keep your ideal body weight, include turmeric powder in your everyday diet. Turmeric contains a component that raises the flow of bile, an essential component in dietary fat breakdown. If you want to lose weight or treat obesity, add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to each meal.
8. Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease
One of the main causes of Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders is considered to be brain inflammation. Turmeric helps remove a buildup of plaque in the brain and enhances the oxygen flow, thus supporting the overall health of the brain. This can slow down and even prevent the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
9. Improved Digestion
Bile improves digestion and helps in cases of bloating and gas. Turmeric contains certain components that stimulate the production of bile in the gallbladder. In addition, this plant helps in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and other forms of inflammatory bowel disease. But, in case you are suffering from gallbladder disease, don’t take turmeric supplements since it can further aggravate the condition. The best thing is to consume raw turmeric if you have problems with digestion.
10. Prevention of Liver Disease
The liver produces enzymes that cleanse the blood, and turmeric increases its production. These important enzymes break down and lower the toxins in our bodies. It is also believed that turmeric revitalizes and enhances blood circulation. All this makes this plant a natural detoxifier of the liver that supports the health of this organ.
One of the best things you can do for your health is to add turmeric to your everyday diet. You can add turmeric powder to warm milk, smoothies, stir-fried dishes, curries, and even too-spicy salad dressings. You can also take it in the form of pills, except if you have bile obstruction or gallstones.