Often referred to as ‘queen of spices’ or staple of Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric (curcuma longa) is an herb native to India derived from the rhizome of the plant. Turmeric, which tastes bitter, is often used while preparing Indian dishes. It has innumerable benefits when consumed raw or mixed with other consumable items like milk and oil. The bright yellow color turmeric powder also has incredible healing properties like antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic and anti-inflammatory.
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Considering that turmeric is loaded with many nutrients including protein, dietary fiber, niacin, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, potassium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and zinc, it serves as a natural healer to cure certain ailments of people from every age group.
Here’s a list of 6 health benefits of turmeric:
Remember the times when, as a child, you made a face after your mother handed you a glass of milk with a pinch of haldi every time you had a cold? Well, that is because it is considered to be a traditional remedy to protect you from illness and disease. It contains lipopolysaccharide- a substance which helps in stimulating body’s immune system and prevents cold, flu and coughs. Experts recommend an addition of half teaspoon of turmeric in daily diet or drinking it with a warm glass of milk everyday.
Turmeric can help cure seborrheic dermatitis, a scaly scalp condition that can lead to temporary and permanent types of hair loss. The antibacterial and antiviral properties of turmeric kicks out inflammations, that make hair weak and thin, from your body. It also serves as a natural cleanser for your scalp and helps in getting rid of dandruff. Either orally have 1 teaspoon of turmeric or mix it with oil and apply in scalp.
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Gaining weight is often associated with fat accumulation in white adipose tissues and turmeric constituent, curcumin prevents fat accumulation. Curcumin has the ability to transform white adipose tissues into brown. Brown adipose tissues play a vital role in producing heat via combustion of lipids and glucose and thus promote weight loss.
Turmeric also helps in diet induced weight loss. The carbohydrate segment of turmeric doesn’t get absorbed in the body when consumed and thus cuts down fat. For effective results, add a pinch of turmeric to your food.
The anti-bacterial functions of turmeric maintain the health of the skin and fights with the pimple-causing bacteria. The antiseptic property quickens the healing process of a cut or physical injury, soothes skin irritation and stops spreading of infection. Besides, the spice also protects skin from ultraviolet radiation or UV rays, prevents formation of wrinkles and dark spots and retains elasticity. It can be taken either with milk or can be applied to the skin and face in the form of a Do-It-Yourself mask.
When toxins and viruses compromise liver functions it can pose serious health risks including hepatitis and cancer. When consumed daily, turmeric can detoxify body, especially the liver. Curcumin stimulates the gallbladder (which breaks down food) and makes it release bile which in turn cleanses the liver. It rejuvenates liver cells and prevents toxins and alcohol from getting converted into harmful compounds that damage liver.
Turmeric helps in relieving gas and soothing inflammation in the digestive tract. As mentioned earlier, turmeric helps release bile. The bile acids absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins and supports digestion of proteins and starches. The curcumin prevents ulcers, bleeding in bowels and cramping. It can also help in treating constipation. Adding just 1 tablespoon of grated or powdered turmeric to one of your dishes every day can do the trick.
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