Explore The Extraordinary Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that is indigenous to India, and it has been used for food as well as medicinally for thousands of years. It is normally ground into a yellow powder that is incorporated into a wide range of dishes, most notably curry, and it is also processed into a medicinal extract. The medicinal side of turmeric is what we’re going to look at today, because this simple spice can produce extraordinary benefits.
Active Ingredient
The active ingredient in turmeric is called circumin, and it is a strong anti-inflammatory agent as well as a compound that is thought to elevate antioxidant levels in the body. However, circumin in amounts normally found in most recipes are not as concentrated. While eating turmeric on a regular basis, over time, can contribute to overall health and well-being, the medicinal component of this spice is best achieved by converting it into an extract.
However, circumin is not easily absorbed in the bloodstream, which means a lot of what we ingest may not be delivered to the cells. The best way to improve absorption is by eating some pepper. Peppercorns help the circumin enter and stay in the bloodstream, and it is this combination that produces a potent remedy that can work on a wide-range of ailments.
Anti-inflammatory
Circumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. It’s effectiveness lies in how it interacts at the molecular level and inhibits biochemical reactions that lead to “bad” inflammation. Furthermore, using turmeric extract for inflammation doesn’t lead to harmful side-effects caused by most over the counter and prescription medications. Ibuprofen, for example, can eat away at the lining of the stomach whereas acetaminophen can cause liver damage.
Circulatory System
Turmeric is known to help to repair and strengthen walls of blood vessels. Circumin is also linked to reversing the effects of heart disease, reducing high blood pressure as well as being a natural blood thinner. All of this can lead to less stress on the heart, which can reduce the occurrence of heart attacks and strokes.
Brain Power
Turmeric has compounds that can make the brain more efficient, reduce cellular degeneration and promote the connection of neurotransmitters. This can translate into better moods, concentration, clarity of thought and a resistance to degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, turmeric consumption is linked to a reduction in the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
First Aid
If you have a bruise or injury that causes swelling or inflammation, consider making a paste out of turmeric powder mixed with a little bit of water. Apply it to the affected area and cover with a bandage. Rinse and repeat a couple of times per day until symptoms subside. Its effectiveness will largely depend on the nature of the injury and how well the body responds to treatment, but it has worked wonders on many people, and it may be a suitable option for you as well.
These are just a few of the many well-studied examples of the benefits of turmeric. However, this is not a miracle cure that will work for every condition in every person. It is also considered to be a preventive agent inasmuch as it can help to reduce symptoms of various ailments. Consequently, consuming turmeric, either through eating, an extract or as a dietary supplement can go a long way toward preventing problems from occurring in the first place. Learn more about the benefits of turmeric and how you can start to incorporate it into your daily diet. You may be surprised to see how beneficial this spice really can be if used on a regular basis over the course of time. Not only that, but turmeric makes food taste delicious as well.
