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Health & Fitness

Superfood Tumeric and It's Health Benefits

The health benefits of Turmeric have been recognized by Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years. Learn why here.

 

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a commonly used culinary spice in India and the Middle East. It is historically known as Indian saffron. Turmeric is often used to prepare Indian curries, and it’s the source of our popular American condiment mustard’s bright yellow color.

Turmeric, a rhizome and a close relative of the adaptogenic herb ginger has been used as both medicine and food for centuries. In its natural state, turmeric is a horizontally shaped rhizome (root) which is dug up out of the ground, baked and then ground into a fine powder. Recent studies suggest that turmeric is a promising preventive agent for a wide range of diseases, most likely due largely to its anti-inflammatory properties. The chief active compound in tumeric is curcumin.

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Turmeric has a unique flavor that is described as slightly bitter and a bit spicy, with a mustard-like scent. I recommend cooking with turmeric rather than taking it as a supplement. Mark Sisson, author of the book the Primal Blueprint described the taste of turmeric in food as:
“Turmeric itself is actually fairly mild and unassuming, so using it as a solitary spice won’t turn every dish into a curry bonanza – in case you were worried.”

Ha! I think it’s very well said and quite funny too!

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The health benefits of Turmeric have been recognized by Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years. That’s a long time! As far as health benefits go, here are some common ailments and diseases that turmeric can help fight against:

  • Indigestion
  • Flatulence
  • Arthritis
  • Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • HIV
  • High Cholesterol
  • Heartburn
  • Jaundice
  • Liver Disorders
  • Menstrual disorders
  • Turmeric can also be applied topically in poultices to reduce inflammation and to relieve wounds, cuts, and bruises.

TIP: Sick with a cold or flu? Turmeric’s anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal agents can help your body fight against colds, cough and flu. When symptoms of these infections are present, simply mix one teaspoon of Turmeric powder into a glass of warm milk once per day. Also drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Now, that’s an impressive list! If your looking for a simple New Year’s resolution for health? I suggest you add turmeric to your diet. Here is a tasty recipe to help you do just that!

Anti-Inflammatory Lemonade:

Ingredients:

1 cup of fresh squeezed lemon juice (approximately 4 -6 lemons)

4-6 cups of clean water (to taste)

1 teaspoon organic ground turmeric

1 teaspoon organic ground cinnamon

pinch Himalayan salt

1/2 teaspoon liquid stevia (or to taste)

1 tsp ground or fresh ginger, optional

Directions:

  1. Combine ingredients and enjoy!
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