Turmeric Truth: The Miracle Spice or Myth?

One might be surprised at all the benefits associated with the use of Turmeric, and why at Ki’s Kitchen it among one of our staples used in a variety of our different meals. Turmeric, has been has been used for centuries in a wide variety of spectrums including, but not limited to, disease prevention, treating a multitude of ailments, an antioxidant, a diuretic, and to aid in overall digestion. 

Some of the most serious diseases that have seen positive results from regular use of turmeric include;

1. Arthritis
2. Cancer
3. Acne
4. Liver Disease
5. Anemia 
6. Common Colds/Flu

and many, many more. 

What is Turmeric? 

Turmeric, is a perennial plant from the ginger family. It is Native to Southern Asia (also cultivated in Sri Lanka , Indonesia , China , Taiwan , Indochina , Peru , Haiti , and Jamaica) as it requires minimum 20C degree weather, and considerable rain fall to thrive. Originally, it was used as a dye until its discovery of its powerful medicinal properties. 

The plant itself reaches approximately 1 meter tall, and is yellow to orange in colour. Cylindrical, aromatic rhizomes are found within the leaves which are typically yellow to green in colour. August, is typically the most common time that the plant is ready for harvest. 

Turmeric may be the most effective nutritional supplement in existence. Many high quality studies show that it has major benefits for your body and brain. The compounds found in this spice, are called curcuminoids, the most important of which is curcumin. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric, and is found to have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant. 

Top Ten Benefits of Turmeric

1. Prevents Cancer – Turmeric neutralizes those substances and conditions which can cause cancer; It directly helps a cell retain its integrity if threatened by carcinogens. If a tumor does grow the curcumins can often destroy it. (full article can be found here)
2. Relieves Arthritis – Reduces pain, inflammation and stiffness related to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), and treats bursitis.
3. Controls Diabetes – Studies suggests that curcumin, can decrease the level of glucose in ones blood, as well as other diabetes-related complications.
4. Reduces Cholesterol – Lowers LDL cholesterol and prevent its oxidation, suppressing plaque build-up in arteries.
5. Immunity Booster – The active ingredient in turmeric, is anti-viral, anti-fungal and can help protect against a variety of illnesses (common colds, flus, etc) and other diseases. 
6. Heals Wounds – Turmeric can be applied to your face or on other parts of your body to reduce inflammation and help with healing, and pain relief. 
7. Weight Management – Curcumin in Turmeric can fasten to capsaicin receptors and increase thermogenesis rates. This leads to greater fat burning and helps with weight loss. 
8. Prevents Alzheimers – It is found to improve overall brain health, and increase the levels of oxygen in the brain. 
9. Improves Digestion – This spice is also known to help increase absorption in the intestine and promote intestinal flora, to help relieve bloating and gas. 
10. Prevents Liver Disease – It is known to protect the liver from toxins and pathogens. It’s suggested that it is able to destroy toxins in the liver, rebuild the liver after a toxic attack, and increase overall blood flow that the liver requires to flush toxins out. 

In conclusion, it is safe to say that Turmeric has stood the test of time – and has proven itself time and time again of its natural abilities to prevent, treat, and if I can boldly say, even cure disease. 

‘Whether suffering from an acute or chronic disease, aches and pains, bumps and bruises, or as preventative maintenance, turmeric can and should be utilized by everyone on a regular basis. In the words of David Frawley: “If I had only a single herb to depend upon for all possible health and dietary needs, I would without much hesitation choose the Indian spice turmeric’ (full article)

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you have found some valuable information, if so, I’d love to hear about it! Please feel free to share this post with anyone who might benefit, and comments are always welcomed and appreciated. 

I look forward to connecting with you next time!

And be sure to check out why you should order your family’s next meal courtesy of Ki’s Kitchen  

From my kitchen to yours, 

Kiran Bissoon

– See more at: https://kiskitchen.com/2017/01/22/hidden-sugars-least-expect/#sthash.3Mt3N7Qz.dpuf

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