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Turmeric: The Little Yellow Spice that May Spice up Your Life

 

By now it may not come as a big birthday “surprise!” that reaching your hand into the kitchen cupboard can yield more than just pulling out a greasy bag of sour cream and onion potato chips. Cupboards and pantries alike, are filled with all sorts of herbs and spices that unbeknownst to some do a lot more than just pleasantly season our favorite roasted vegetable dish. This article features a brightly colored root called turmeric, or Curcuma Longa. Turmeric, a close relative to ginger may offer a host of healing properties; from deflating a bloated belly to elevating a deflated mood. Some studies indicate that turmeric may even slow the growth of certain cancer cells. Read on to find out how turmeric may just be the little root to add spice to your life.

 

Turmeric is native to the indigenous terrain of India and south east Asia. Luckily, for those of us who do not live in those areas we can pick up the colorful rhizome in our local natural food store, or grow it right in our own backyard garden. A close relative of ginger, turmeric, much like ginger, may be beneficial in offering relief for upset tummies, boost brain function, ease joint pain, and helping us to receive overall wellness. Here’s how.

 

The secret ingredient that gives turmeric its super powers is a compound called curcumin. Studies indicate that curcumin was found to have a beneficial affect on glucose levels. This may be good news for those with blood sugar concerns. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a good alley in relieving joint pain, and other discomforts due to inflammation.  Curcumin may also play an important role in assisting a protein in the brain called Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). BDNF has been credited with helping the brain to function more efficiently by increasing neurons and helping the brain to form new connections. An enhanced memory and improved mood have been linked to higher levels of BDNF in the brain. Whats more, the curcumin in turmeric is credited with helping to increase serotonin and dopamine, making the brightly colored spice a possible aide in brightening up one’s mood. Curcumin’s strong antioxidant powers may also play a role in helping to maintain healthy and radiant skin.

 

Who wouldn’t love a spice that may reduce gas and bloating? Curcumin has been known to affect the gall bladder by stimulated it so that it produces bile which breaks down food, thereby, improving digestion, and helping to reduce gas and bloating. 

 

As with most, if not all, things we consume: moderation is key.  As the old adage goes: too much of a good thing, is good for nothing. With all the wonderful attributes turmeric has to offer, be sure to do your own research on suitable dosages and applications. Turmeric in excess may lead to dizziness, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Turmeric may also stimulate the uterus, therefore, is not recommended during pregnancy. Turmeric may also slow down blood clotting. Certain drugs such as: ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, and warfarin may not work well with turmeric. So it’s important to seek qualified health guidance when adding new things to your health regimen.

 

Below is a tasty way you may choose to enjoy turmeric. Please note that mixing turmeric with organic black pepper is known to enhance its healing properties. So take it for what it’s worth, and health to you!

Start with an organic milk that is suitable for you. These days it’s not only the cows and goats that give milk. If dairy is not your thing, almond, cashew, or oat milk will do fine. First, warm up the desired amount of milk in a saucepan. Next, mix 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoons of organic ground turmeric into the milk. Then, add about 1/4 teaspoon of organic cinnamon with a pinch of black pepper to the blend. If desired, add a wholesome sweetener of your choice. Finally, enjoy! Remember, when taking in foods and drinks its a great idea to receive them with a genuine sense of gratitude and joy.

 

 

 

 Please note: Information in this article is not intended for medical diagnosis, or treatment of any illness or condition. Please always seek guidance from a qualified health care practitioner, and of course, use good sense when it comes to your health and well being.




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