Turmeric - Herbal Gold Dust
Turmeric has been a feature in Indian kitchens and medicine cabinets for almost 4000 years. It is known for its antioxidant properties and boasts an array of researched-backed and time-tested benefits.
The herb, scientifically known as Curcuma longa is revered as the holy powder in the subcontinent.
Turmeric is used in Ayurveda to balance three doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. It helps in regulating the blood and plasma of the circulatory system. It also kindles the digestive fire and reduces toxins.
Curcumin, the main and the vital component of Turmeric, gives the spice its characteristic yellow colour.
Apart from providing the rich golden shade, Curcumin is a natural antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory benefits. It has been associated to slowing the aging process and preventing Alzheimer’s disease and potentially depression
Turmeric is seen as an anti-carcinogenic and can even be used to treat everything from liver problems to digestive ailments to even ringworm and itching.
Before we dive into the other uses in detail, let us take a look at how Turmeric can prove vital in skincare.
Turmeric will help reduce acne and any resulting scars. The anti-inflammatory qualities can target your pores and calm the skin. Turmeric is also known to reduce scarring. This combination of uses may help your face clear up from acne breakouts. Consuming one capsule of turmeric alongside a glass of milk on a daily basis will ensure glowing skin. Such a practice will also lead to brightening dark circles.
This amazing spice has also been found to help with eczema, alopecia, lichen planus, and other skin issues.
Here are some other uses:
Provides Relief from Arthritic Pain
Anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric help in treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Free radicals are also destroyed as turmeric has anti-oxidant properties as well. Turmeric is recommended for people suffering from mild joint pain.
2) Brain Food
Stem cells can help in the recovery from neurodegenerative diseases like stroke and Alzheimer’s. Curcumin can help in the repair of stem cells.
3) Digestion Smoother
Raw turmeric can be consumed to manage a stomach upset. It is also known to reduce symptoms of bloating and gas.
4) Antiseptic:
Turmeric has natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties. This gold dust on the affected area/wound can help in healing faster. Our ancestors always suggest turmeric for burn, cut or infection over a pill. The simplest Ayurvedic solution to canker sores is local
application of turmeric and honey. Mix together 1 teaspoon honey
with ¼ teaspoon turmeric, and rub it on the sore. It will burn a
little at rst, but the sore area will heal quickly
5) Diabetes:
The antioxidant properties of curcumin have been found to delay the onset of Type 2 Diabetes. The spice also helps moderate insulin levels and boosts the effect of medications that treat diabetes.
6) Liver Detox
The liver is positively effected by turmeric and the rate of production of the vital enzymes that detoxify our blood by breaking down and reducing the toxins, increases.
In conclusion, when J.R.R Tolkien wrote all that is gold does not glitter, he may well have been talking about Turmeric. It is the golden standard among herbs and we need to identify and tap such resources for our well being.
