Unique Health Benefits Of Turmeric

 Turmeric has many benefits, but what makes it unique is the fact that it is a spice. Among spices, it is arguably the healthiest of all -with wide-ranging positive results for the skin, the organ system, in countering problems like obesity and fighting gainst hormonal imbalances.

The eastern countries have long been aware of the potent powers of turmeric. However, now even the West is coming to appreciate the fact that turmeric acts as a natural remedy for a range of illnesses.

Let's take a look at some of the unique benefits of turmeric:

It is effective against various cancers
Curcumin, contained in turmeric, gives it powerful anti-oxidant properties, making it a strong agent against cancer. Experts say that turmeric is naturally anti-inflammatory, and while it's not a one-stop cure against the disease, it does inhibit neoplastic growth by preventing the formation of tumor blood vessels. About 30 studies exist that suggest curcumin has anti-tumor effect.

Turmeric is particularly effective against prostrate, pancreatic and colon cancers as well as childhood leukemia.

Fights dementia and Alzheimer's disease
Turmeric is believed to boost the brain function and ward off the onset of dementia. Researchers again credit curcumin's anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities for its ability to combat dementia as well as delay the onset of the deadly Alzheimer's. Curcumin breaks down the amyloid plaques in the brain. Studies have shown that amyloid plaques clog the brain vessels, restricting its oxygen supply and thus contributing to the progression of the disease.

Effective against depression
Curcumin is an anti-oxidant that has properties which are similar to that of an anti-depressant. This makes turmeric a powerful natural remedy against the new-age bane of depression. However, given that depression is a medical condition, which must be treated only under a doctor's supervision, it's advisable to take the psychiatrist's opinion first.

Turmeric is great for the heart
Turmeric is a natural remedy for people suffering from heart ailments. Curcumin has a positive impact on lowering overall cholesterol levels and preventing the build-up of LDL or bad cholesterol in the blood vessels. It also inhibits arterial plaque, warding off atherosclerosis and thus, providing protection from heart attacks and strokes.

Keeps the digestive system and the liver healthy
The digestive system of the body plays a crucial role in cleaning the body and ridding it of toxins. Turmeric is known to treat indigestion by facilitating smoother bowel movements and mitigating symptoms of flatulence.

Liver is vital for the body's detox. It is known as the body's waste-bin in common parlance because it eliminates all harmful substances from the blood. Turmeric is known to assist in cleansing the liver and adding to its health and functionality.

Has superb anti-inflammatory properties
Turmeric is strongly anti-inflammatory. Preliminary research indicates promising results for people suffering from eye inflammation (uveitis), inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis) as well as multiple sclerosis.

Due to its effectiveness in relieving inflammations and the resulting pain, turmeric also alleviates symptoms of arthritis. So, if your joints have been troubling you of late, maybe it's time to increase your daily turmeric intake. However, it's recommended to consult your physician first.

Turmeric is also quite beneficial in quelling headaches caused by tension. However, experts say that a turmeric supplement may be a better and quicker cure than oral consumption of turmeric powder. Again this is due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the brain vessels.

Builds up immunity
Other than strong anti-oxidant properties, turmeric is also packed with anti-bacterial qualities. Together, this combination helps unlock and promote the body's in-built immunity and prevents a host of bacterial and viral infections. Also, when down with an infection, regular intake of turmeric can help you bounce back faster.

Slows down ageing
The strong anti-oxidant curcumin fights off free radicals and acts as a shield against the damage inflicted by them. Free radicals are responsible for the wear and tear and the gradual deterioration of the body due to ageing. Regular consumption of turmeric can thus help you stay healthy and youthful.

Promotes healthy skin
The anti-oxidizing nature of turmeric also helps combat the onset of age-induced fine lines and wrinkles on the face. In addition, its strong anti-bacterial, anti-septic and anti-inflammatory properties make it a good alternative for face and skin applications (as pastes). Turmeric pastes can help heal cuts and burns, prevent eruptions, soothe skin irritations and reduce inflammations.

Accelerates fat loss
When one talks of weight loss, one is actually referring to fat loss (since weight could be brought down even with water and muscle loss - which no one desires). One of the most lauded benefits of turmeric is its potential to up the body's metabolic rate and help burn fat faster. This is why more and more nutritionists recommend turmeric as a dietary supplement for people trying to lose weight. The effectiveness of turmeric is such that it helps one burn calories even during sleep. Also, curcumin stimulates the production of bile, which helps digest fats and again helps control weight.

Beneficial for Diabetics
Turmeric can help bring down blood sugar levels. While it can act as a natural supportive remedy for diabetis, it is best to first consult your physician. This is because if one is already on insulin or medication, intake of turmeric can plummet blood glucose levels to dangerous levels, posing the risk of hypoglycemia.

Checks cortisol levels
Cortisol or the stress hormone causes the body to accumulate and retain fat. It is related to other stress promoters like poor sleep, fluctuating blood sugar levels and high blood pressure. Turmeric naturally arrests the production of cortisol and helps the body rid itself of the negatives effects of the hormone. 

photo by Mahesh.