Turmeric: A Natural Remedy That Can Be More Effective Than Many Drugs
Turmeric and Its Health Benefits & Why You Should Be Consuming it
What is Turmeric, and why is it so good for you? Turmeric is the root of a tropical plant called Curcuma longa looks like a smaller, more orange form of ginger root. It is most popular for its uses in Indian recipes, such as curry. It can be used in many different forms though, such as a powder or juice, and can be used and consumed in many different ways. But first, let’s take a look at the research, and see why it is so good for our bodies.
Many studies have been done on this spice and many are concluding that it can be equally as powerful, if not more powerful than many drugs. Many of these preventative medications and treatments include anti-inflammatories, drugs for:
- Diabetes
- Anti-viral
- Fat Metabolizer
- Cholesterol Reducer
- Heart Disease,
- Aiding in cancer treatments. (Eat Local Grown)
Upon digestion of the vibrant orange-yellow spice, Turmeric works as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that aids the body’s functions in countless ways. It has been compared to, and even used as a medicine, to aid in cancer treatment, infections and digestive issues. Curcumin, the powdered and medicinal term, lowers the levels of two enzymes that cause inflammation in the body. Many who suffer from arthritis or swollen joints use turmeric to help naturally lower the inflammation. It is also an antioxidant, which fights off free radicals in your body that potentially cause cancer. (University of Maryland Medical Center)
You can add this spice to almost anything. Add to your meat seasonings, soups, smoothies, juices, lotions, and body scrubs. You can even take it in pill form if you don’t like the taste. My favorite is incorporating it into taco meat and my hot tea in the morning.
Simple Turmeric Tea:
1 cup water (or equal parts coconut milk and water for a creamy tea)
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon ginger
A squeeze of ¼ lemon
Honey or maple syrup to taste
Try adding cinnamon and/or cayenne!
Directions:
- Put all ingredients (except sweetener of choice) into a blender for a few seconds.
- Pour into a small saucepan over medium to high heat for a few minutes until hot.
- Pour into the cup with honey/maple syrup and stir.
- If adding coconut milk, pour back into a blender for a foamy effect.
After learning about these great Turmeric health benefits, let us know what you think about the Turmeric tea 🙂