Benefits Of Drinking Turmeric

A spicy culinary herb grown mostly in India, turmeric offers a variety of health and healing benefits. Frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric's existence has been known for thousands of years and was originally utilized for cosmetic purposes and as a dye. Later, people found that it possessed health-enhancing qualities when consumed. The active ingredient curcumin is found in the rhizome, or root, of the turmeric plant and is mainly responsible for the health benefits turmeric produces.

Antibacterial Properties

As a natural antiseptic, turmeric effectively cleans wounds and burns to prevent the onset of infection. In one study published in the "Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology" which researched the effect of turmeric on E-coli strain K-12, several finely ground turmeric roots were centrifuged to produce a strong solution later added to the E-coli culture. Bacterial growth was examined 24 hours later and results indicated a significantly reduced concentration of the E-coli strain. In fact, no bacterial growth existed whatsoever after 2.8 g of turmeric concentration were used on the strain.

Anti-carcinogenic Properties

Turmeric may also reduce the risk of prostrate cancer and impede the growth of prostate cancer already diagnosed in an individual. A study published in "Biochemical Pharmacology" using mice revealed that turmeric stopped the spread of breast cancer to the lungs and also caused melanoma cancer cells, or skin cancer, to self-destruct. This anti-carcinogenic property turmeric may indeed possess is based on its anti-inflammatory characteristic that seems to reduce the proliferation of corrupted cells.

Cleaning the Liver

A healthy liver is vital to optimal body function. In addition to filtering harmful bacteria and other toxins, the liver burns carbs and fats for energy, adjusts amino acid levels in the blood, assists in producing blood plasma and converts glucose to glycogen. The curcumin in turmeric helps cleanse the liver by flushing cholesterol and bile from the liver's system.

As a Spice in Food

Frequently used in meat and vegetable dishes, turmeric adds a strong, mustard-like flavor to foods. As a nutrient, turmeric contains iron, potassium, manganese, vitamin B and dietary fiber. When cooking or making tea with turmeric, be aware that it is also used as a dye in foods to make them appear more yellowish in color, so it will stain your hands if touched. Users report no side effects when using turmeric either as a spice or natural remedy, but pregnant women and those suffering from gallstones should seek advice from a doctor before using turmeric.