7 Magical Ways Turmeric Helps In Daily Life

A spice like turmeric is one of the staples of every Indian kitchen. Besides adding flavor and color to different kinds of food, it has many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that not only keep illnesses at bay, but also treat pre-existing chronic health conditions. Both in the past and in the present, turmeric is used as a spice as well as a medicinal herb.

Many high-quality studies show that turmeric has major benefits for your body and brain. Many of these benefits come from its main active ingredient, curcumin.

It has been used in India for thousands of years as both a spice and medicinal herb. Recently, science has started to back up traditional claims that turmeric contains compounds with medicinal properties. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.

1. Turmeric Provides Relief from Arthritic Pain

Turmeric has also deep roots in both Chinese traditional medicine and Ayurveda for treating arthritis. Research suggests that taking turmeric extract could potentially reduce pain from osteoarthritis, though further study is still needed.  The antioxidant also destroys the free radicals in the body that damage the cells. Anybody suffering from the condition should consume the spice on a daily basis to relieve themselves of mild joint pains and inflammation, though it should be understood that it does not stand as a substitute for medication.

 

2. Improves memory

There is growing evidence that curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and may help to protect against Alzheimer’s disease. Research has found that this compound promotes repair in the stem cells of the brain - the same stem cells that can help in the recovery from neurodegenerative diseases like stroke and Alzheimer's. Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and may help fight various degenerative processes in your brain.

 

3. Turmeric Aids In Digestion

Turmeric adds flavor to food, which explains its presence in curry powder. However, turmeric can also play an important role in digesting that food. Turmeric is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a digestive healing agent. The major components of the spice stimulate the gallbladder to produce bile, instantly making the digestive system more efficient. It is also known to reduce symptoms of bloating and gas.

 

4. Turmeric Has Healing Properties

Remember how turmeric used to be every grandmother's pet suggestion to treat any cut, burn or infection? Its natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties make it an effective disinfectant. The powder can be sprinkled on the affected area to help it heal faster. Instead of turning to a pill, the next time you experience an upset stomach or heartburn, try this super spice instead.

 

5. Possibly reducing the risk of cancer

Curcumin shows promise as a cancer treatment. Curcumin leads to several changes on the molecular level that may help prevent and perhaps even treat cancer. Studies suggest Trusted Source it has protective effects against pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, and multiple myeloma.

 

6. Turmeric Helps Boost Immunity

Lipopolysaccharide - a substance in turmeric with anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal agents helps stimulate the human immune system. Take a teaspoon of the spice powder in a glass of warm milk daily and you'll see it work wonders as it reduces your chances of catching flu.

7. Turmeric Helps Your Liver Detox

Turmeric has been getting attention recently because of its antioxidant abilities. Turmeric is known to increase the production of the vital enzymes that detoxify our blood in the liver by breaking down and reducing the toxins. The antioxidant effect of turmeric appears to be so powerful that it may stop your liver from being damaged by toxins. By improving blood circulation too, turmeric is instrumental in promoting good liver health.