Turmeric : Spice, beauty agent and a natural antiseptic

Turmeric as a spice, beauty agent and a natural antiseptic – this is how it has always been known. But believe us when we say it is much more than that. It is known to potentially reverse diseases. Hailing from the ginger family, turmeric, is the most powerful herb that fights and resists ailments.

According to experts, the goodness of turmeric equals many medicines and is sometimes even more beneficial than prescribed drugs. However, we advice it be taken under medical guidance as a treatment, because it is also known to have certain side effects if taken in huge quantities.

The spice is an excellent source of vitamin B6, vitamins C, E, K, iron, copper, calcium, zinc, manganese, potassium, dietary fiber and proteins. Together let’s check out what more the spice has to offer.

Kills cancer cells: Curcumin kill cancer cells – its growth, development and spread at molecular level.  A recent study revealed that it was effective in reducing the size of tumors and is especially effective in treating breast, colon and skin cancer. It has also been found in preventing prostate cancer and even destroying cancer cells.  Its active components make turmeric the best protector against radiation-induced tumors.

Regulates cholesterol: Turmeric reduces serum cholesterol level and heart disease. The curcumin present in it helps reverse the process by improving the endothelium function or the lining of blood vessels that leads to heart ailments. In other words, there are studies that support that curcumin does not allow plaque building that clog arteries. The inability of endothelium to regulate blood pressure, blood clotting and various other factors results in major heart problems. Curcumin also reduces inflammation and oxidation, which are important in treating heart disease.  Also, pre-diabetics are growing at an alarming rate and who eventually suffer from heart ailments.

Aids digestion: Curcumin stimulates the gall bladder to make bile and reduces the occurrence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS, Crohn’s disease, and Ulcerative Colitis).  It may help upset stomach, bloating and gas formation.

Anti-inflammation qualities boost immunity: It fights foreign invaders within the body and repairs damage. Without inflammation, pathogens attack our bodies and weaken our system.  It is known to aid kidney function as well. Lipopolysaccharide, found in the spice, helps stimulate the immune system.

Manages/ relieves pain, resists ailments: Its powerful anti-inflammatory goodness reduces pain. It provides immense relief to those suffering from moderate and mild joint pains or both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Curcumin neutralises free radicals directly and stimulates the body’s own antioxidant mechanisms which resists diseases from striking.

Delays aging, manages weight: The spices’ antioxidant property destroys free radicals in the body that damage body cells, delays aging.  Turmeric is quiet helpful in maintaining the body weight. A component present in turmeric helps breakdown of dietary fat.

Diabetes management: Curcumin successfully lowers blood sugar level, reverses insulin resistance, issues related to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. It increases the effect of medicines used to treat diabetes and prevent the onset of Type-2 diabetes.

Prevents liver ailments: Being a natural liver detoxifier, the spice increases production of vital enzymes, which break down, reduces the toxins and boost blood circulation.

Improves brain function: Neurons fight degenerative processes and multiply with growth hormone. This process is called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). Alzheimer’s is one such neurodegenerative disease that is striking the world. It is important to prevent it as there is no cure for it. Turmeric ensures overall brain health, helps in removal of plaque build up and improves oxygen intake.

Combats depression: Turmeric boosts BDNF levels and brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. These factors elevate the mood and keeps depression at bay.

Possible side effects

Though very rare, there have been incidents where in people have reported problems due to turmeric consumption in high quantities. Some of these include

· Nausea

· Diarrhea

· Increased risk of bleeding

· Increased liver function tests

· Hyperactive gallbladder contractions

· Low  blood pressure

· Uterine contractions in pregnant women

-windowtonews