There are numerous health benefits associated with consuming turmeric. It helps reduce inflammation, fights free radicals, improves digestion, boosts brain power, treats skin diseases such as psoriasis or eczema, reduces cancer risk, and more. Read on to see why turmeric should be part of your daily beauty routine.
1. Turmeric Is Anti-Inflammatory
Turmeric is great for managing inflammation. When turmeric is added to food, it blocks an enzyme called COX-2. In turn, this helps reduce swelling and pain. Turmeric also boosts the antioxidant power and reduces blood sugar levels. You can add curcumin directly to food if you’re looking for anti-inflammatory benefits. If you don't want to use turmeric as an additive, you can get similar results by adding 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger root to hot water and drinking it throughout the day.
2. Turmeric Helps Reduce Pain
Turmeric is known for its powerful healing properties. A study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology shows how taking turmeric extract before surgery reduced postoperative pain and improved recovery time. Researchers believe this was due to the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, helping to prevent scarring while reducing discomfort. Take two grams of ground turmeric root daily (or four capsules) to help alleviate joint pain.
3. Turmeric Boosts Immunity
Aging and fatigue are often associated with low immunity. Studies show that turmeric may boost immunity. Taking turmeric supplements can improve immune function and even prevent colds and flu outbreaks. One study of over 1,200 people found those who took 400 milligrams of curcumin every day had fewer days of illness than those who didn't take any supplement at all.
4. Turmeric Fights Cancer
Studies have shown that turmeric may fight cancer and keep tumors from spreading. Curcumin, a chemical compound in turmeric, has been shown to destroy breast cancer cells and stop them from developing into tumors. To reap these benefits, take 500 mg three times per day and continue until no trace of the tumor remains.
5. Turmeric May Help Prevent Diabetes
Recent studies indicate that consuming curcumin may help prevent diabetes. According to research conducted at Harvard University, mice that were fed a high-fat diet supplemented with 1 percent curcumin gained less weight than those who did not receive the supplement. Other studies suggest that turmeric may slow down the progression of type II diabetes. Take 600 mg twice per day to help ease symptoms of pre-diabetes.
6. Turmeric May Improve Liver Function
The liver is responsible for numerous tasks including filtering toxins out of the body, breaking down drugs, processing bile, preventing disease, and producing red blood cells. As we age, our livers become weaker and less efficient. But turmeric may help improve liver function and protect the liver from damage. Research suggests that turmeric may increase the production of enzymes and antioxidants that protect the liver and boost its performance. Take 300 mg three times per day.
7. Turmeric Can Treat Arthritis
Arthritis is a painful condition caused by inflammation that affects joints and surrounding bones. The best way to treat arthritis naturally is to eat turmeric regularly. You can drink turmeric tea and take turmeric supplements to relieve inflammation, keep bones strong, and manage pain. Use turmeric to make recipes like Indian Curry or curried chicken soup and enjoy the many health benefits of this spice.
0 Comments