Turmeric, a spice that has been used in India for centuries, has many anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that may be beneficial to those who suffer from allergies. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 1.5 to 3 g of cut root per day, 400 to 600 mg of standardized powder three times per day, 30 to 90 drops of fluid extract per day or 15 to 30 drops of tincture four times per day. Turmeric can also be taken as a tea or worked into a food dish. Because turmeric is fat-soluble, it is best absorbed when taken with an edible item containing fat.
Turmeric Tea
Step 1
Bring two cups of water to a boil on high heat in a cooking pot.
Step 2
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon each of powdered ginger and turmeric.
Step 3
Reduce heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4
Pour the tea mixture through a strainer into a mug and then add milk and honey to taste.
Turmeric Broccoli and Tomatoes
Step 1
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Step 2
Add onions and cook, covered, for five minutes. Stir occasionally.
Step 3
Remove the lid and cook five more minutes, uncovered. Stir occasionally.
Step 4
Coat onions in turmeric and stir well.
Step 5
Add broccoli, tomatoes, water and salt. Bring to simmer and then set heat to low. Let simmer for 10 minutes and serve hot.
Tips and Warnings
- Always check the expiration date when purchasing supplements. As with all supplements, start with the smallest dose and work your way up to your effective dose.
- Allergic reactions can occur with natural products. Use in moderation as turmeric overuse can cause stomach discomfort. Turmeric has blood-thinning properties, and should never be taken in combination with blood-thinning drugs.
Things You'll Need
- For Turmeric Tea:
- Cooking pot
- Mug or glass
- Strainer
- 1/2 teaspoon powdered turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger
- 2 cups water
- Milk
- Honey
- For Turmeric Broccoli and Tomatoes:
- Deep frying pan with lid
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 1 stalk broccoli
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt to taste
References
- National Institutes Of Health: Turmeric And Curcumin
- National Institues Of Health: Immunomodulatory Effects Of Curcumin In Allergy
- Oregon State University: Curcumin
- National Institues of Health: Effects Of Three Dietary Phytochemicals From Tea, Rosemary And Turmeric On Inflammation-Induced Nitrite Production
- National Institutes of Health: Phase I Clinical Trial Of Oral Curcumin: Biomarkers Of Systemic Activity And Compliance
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