Turmeric has been used medicinally for centuries and has been shown to help ward off cancer, Alzheimer’s , and a number of other human diseases.

The Root Details

Turmeric is a spice (harvested from a root) and contains a compound called curcumin. It’s been long used in Ayurvedic medicine and is now more widely accepted as a natural anti-inflammatory. Most diseases are caused or aggravated by inflammation. Using turmeric can assist in reducing cancerous tumors as well as shrinking inflammation in the brain of Alzheimer patients.

Hundreds of years ago curcumin was used to ward off Small Pox. Today there is a lot of experimentation using turmeric to help with gas-relief and bloating, getting restful sleep, improving mood, and even pain relief for those with rheumatoid arthritis. You can take it in a supplement form, sprinkled as a spice, or created into a paste.

Adding a Little Spice

You can readily add it to most foods and drinks. It won’t vastly change the flavor, but it will definitely alter the color. This spice is a bright yellowish-orange and can stain, so take heed if you don’t want your sink, counters, or clothes dyed. (It will wash out, eventually.)

Another thing to keep in mind is that the body doesn’t fully absorb the curcumin in turmeric without help.

You should use turmeric in conjunction with fats or black pepper to increase it’s bioavailability.  Good fat choices would be coconut, almond, or olive oils, or avocados.

Or, you can invest in your health by taking a daily supplement. There are many brands on the market, but you’ll want to be sure you choose a reliable, quality product.

Food and Drink

Although turmeric is a spice, it doesn’t make foods taste very different or hot (as in spicy.) So, don’t be afraid to sprinkle a teaspoon on top of your fresh salad. Many people sauté their veggies in olive oil with a little garlic and turmeric. Cooks and chefs even add it to potatoes, eggs, rice, and quinoa.

Lots of folks toss a dash of turmeric into their favorite smoothie. Another popular way to add the spice into a drink is to make “Golden Milk.” Golden milk is an ancient medicinal remedy to aid in immunity boosting and getting a good night’s sleep. It’s made with a turmeric paste added into warm milk with about a half-teaspoon of coconut oil included at the end. Many toss in a pinch of vanilla, cinnamon, or ginger, making it a flavorful, relaxing beverage before bed.

Pains and Sprains

A turmeric paste can be applied to the body to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Some homeopaths suggest taking two tablespoons of turmeric, one tablespoon of lime juice, and a few drops of water. Stir until it makes a thick paste. Rub the mixture directly onto the affected area (no open wounds!) and then wrap with a cloth bandage. Leave on for a half hour. Your skin will be yellow, but the swelling should decrease.

Teeth whitening has also been touted as another health advantage using turmeric. Most importantly, however, studies are revealing the ability of turmeric to keep inflammation at bay. This is an essential element in disease reversal, making this spice one worth tossing into the mix. Perhaps you should consider adding turmeric to your collection today!

To read about more healthy options, check out www.GetThrive.com.