Thursday, April 10, 2014

Spices-Turmeric

Turmeric -"The Golden Spice" also known as "The Indian Saffron" for its deep yellow-orange colour comes from the root of a leafy plant in the Ginger Family called Curcuma Longa. Turmeric is not just used as a spice but also an an healing agent. Turmeric is claimed to have been originated in India and is used extensively in South East Asia as a principle Spice. Turmeric is used in all possible combinations of curry powder.It is a very powerful anti-inflammatory agentand is extensively used as a textile dye as well.



Health Benefits:

1.Turmeric's anti-inflammatory agent helps to treat a wide variety of conditions, including flatulence, , bloody  urine, hemorrhage, toothache, bruises,jaundice, menstrual difficulties, chest pain, rheumatoid arthritis , and colic.

2.It is used for jaundice and to stimulate gallbladder activity. It is thus helpful as a digestive aid for breaking down and digesting fatty foods.It is shown to have successfully reduced the cholesterol levels.

3.Turmeric is said to boost immunity and is a natural Liver Detoxifier

4.Some traditional healers use it for the treatment of cough, or cooked with milk, to treat asthma.

5.Turmeric has antiviral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The results are so promising that physicians are recommending that everyone include half a teaspoon a day of turmeric in their daily diet. 

6.Turmeric helps in inhibiting the insulin levels and the addition of turmeric to the diet helps in enhancing the efficacy of anti diabetic drugs.

7.Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent and can be used as an effective disinfectant. If you have a cut or burn, you can sprinkle turmeric powder on the affected area to speed up the healing process. Turmeric also helps repair damaged skin and may be used to treat psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

8.When combined with cauliflower, it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.

9.Turmeric is a preservative agent and agreat pesticide.

10.Contraindications: Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. Though turmeric is often used by pregnant women, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.

Tips:
While purchasing turmeric pay attention to the packaging dates. It lasts no more than 3 months

Easy Herbal Tea using Turmeric: 
  • 1 Cup water
  • 1/4 tsp Ginger
  • 1/4 tsp Turmeric
  • honey or sugar to taste
  • A squeeze of lemon

Method:

Bring water to a boil and add turmeric and ginger and simmer for about  5 minutes. Remove from flame add a dash of lemon and honey and serve hot ..

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