5 Things You Need to Know About Benefits of Turmeric

1. A Tasty Herb That Helps Fight Cancer

Turmeric is a common Indian herb that is an essential ingredient in curry; however, curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has a number of health benefits and may even help to fight cancer. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant, helping to rid the body of cancer-causing free radicals and also has anti-carcinogenic properties, protecting the body from cancer-causing toxins. While more studies need to be done, the fact that colon, prostate, lung and colon cancers are ten times less in India, where turmeric is used daily, than in the U.S., is powerful evidence.

2. Tasty Treats That Feed the Heart

Adding turmeric to your daily diet not only helps to add spice and flavor to your meals, it also helps to feed your heart. Turmeric helps in lowering cholesterol levels, in turn reducing the buildup of plaque on the artery walls which lead to heart disease and even cardiac arrest. Additionally, turmeric helps to strengthen blood vessels and improve blood circulation, all of which ensures a steady supply of blood to the heart, giving it a well deserved break.

3. A Great Arthritis Remedy

Taken internally or externally, turmeric can help to soothe and prevent to spread of arthritis. Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and when taken internally helps to protect the joints from damage, reducing painful arthritis symptoms and possible even prevent a worsening of symptoms. When arthritis symptoms flare, turmeric extract can be massaged into painful joints for immediate relieve and reduction of swelling.

4. A Body Scrub With Glowing Results

Turmeric powder is traditionally used in India as a body scrub, particularly for young brides before their wedding day. Simply mix an equal mixture of turmeric powder and flour and add enough water to make a paste. Massage the paste into your entire body and leave on for about 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. This turmeric skin treatment is also perfect for pregnant women, as it makes the skin soft and supple and helps to prevent stretch marks.

5. Soothe a Belly Ache

Turmeric has a number of beneficial properties when it comes to digestion. Turmeric tea after meals helps to aid digestion and soothe the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, turmeric fights bacteria which cause diarrhea, making it the perfect nighttime drink for those at risk for traveler's diarrhea or as a treatment for loose stools.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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