Turmeric has been used for thousands of years for countless ailments. In recent years it has also caught the attention of western researchers and there are many studies touting its many benefits.
- Digestion and the liver (Ulcers, diverticulitis, flatulence, leaky gut)
- Heart heath (High blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol)
- Immune support (Cancer, colds and flu, bronchitis)
- Musculoskeletal strength and flexibility (Joint disorders, arthritis, pain)
- Nervous system (Pain, Alzheimer's)
- Wound healing and healthy skin (Eczema, psoriasis)
- Diabetes and Menstruation difficulties
Turmeric
is a warming herb that promotes digestive secretions. It helps to
relieve gas and has strong anti-inflammatory abilities to soothe the
inflammation in the digestive tract. These attributes explain why it is
used for diverticulitis, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
Its
astringent qualities tighten and tone the digestive tract, making it a
great ally in cases of a leaky gut. Turmeric is often used for ulcers
because it tones the surface of the ulceration, decreases inflammation,
stops bleeding, and helps to prevent infection. These same qualities
make this a great herb for inflammation and pain associated with
hemorrhoids and anal fissures. It can be used externally and internally
for this. Be warned that turmeric will stain everything it touches
yellow!
Turmeric
is a cholagogue, which is an herb that promotes bile secretion from the
gallbladder and liver. Using turmeric regularly can help prevent
gallstones although it is recommended by the German Commission E to
avoid using turmeric if gallstones are present.
Heart Health
Turmeric
can help to normalize cholesterol levels. It prevents cholesterol from
oxidizing, which is a process that can damage blood vessels. Scientific
studies say that turmeric reduces blood clotting, increases circulation
and decreases high blood pressure. My mentors recommend it following
heart surgery such as angioplasty and bypass surgery.
Immune support
There
are countless studies showing that turmeric can prevent cancer as well
as stop cancer from metastasizing. I recently saw a TED talk where
angiogenesis researcher William Li explained how we can eat to starve
cancer. Angiogenesis is the growth of blood vessels, something that
happens normally in humans. However, sometimes this process is too
little (resulting in wounds that won’t heal for example) while too much
angiogenesis can result in many chronic diseases, notably cancer.
Li
highlighted turmeric as a substance that beneficially effected
angiogenesis by inhibiting the growth of cancers. Like so many herbs,
turmeric has the ability to normalize function. While it can stop
excessive angiogenesis it can also promote angiogenesis when necessary!
Besides regulating the growth of blood vessels, turmeric can also
promote the growth of blood cells, making it a good therapy for anemia.
Turmeric
is also used for many symptoms of the cold and flu, bronchitis and sore
throats, including prevention. KP Khalsa says that turmeric provides
broad immune system support.
Musculoskeletal health, strength and flexibility
Turmeric
is an exceptional herb for the musculoskeletal system. It is commonly
used for chronic joint conditions such as arthritis.
Turmeric
is a strong anti-inflammatory herb. It can rebuild joints and even
decrease pain. It can be used in acute injuries as well to improve
circulation to the area, reduce any excessive inflammation and reduce
pain.
For
those with chronic arthritis and other joint problems who also have a
lot of dryness, it is recommended to combine turmeric with ghee or
marshmallow root to offset its inherent drying qualities.
Turmeric
can be taken preventively to keep the musculoskeletal system healthy.
Yogis take turmeric to support tendons and ligaments and promote
flexibility.
Turmeric
really does stand out as a pain remedy. Besides reducing inflammation
it also depletes nerve endings of substance P, which communicates the
pain signal. Besides being taken internally it also has been used
externally for sore joints and sprains. Be warned though, it will
temporarily stain your skin yellow. To use it effectively for chronic
pain and inflammation, take it daily for a period of time.
Turmeric
can also be used to heal from surgery. It can stabilize connective
tissue and promote the healing of tissues while lessening scars and
adhesions.
Nervous system
Like
rosemary, turmeric has been in the research spotlight recently, showing
its propensity to prevent Alzheimer's. Some theorize this is why India
has significantly lower rates of Alzheimer’s.
Wound healing and healthy skin
Turmeric
can be used internally and externally to promote healthy skin. It’s
regularly used for acne, eczema, psoriasis, and to heal wounds.
The powdered root can stop bleeding fast; simply apply it to the wound.
Turmeric
can heal fungal infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot. To do this
a paste is made from the powder and apply externally. And, by now,
hopefully you know the warning... it will temporarily stain your skin
and anything else it comes into contact with.
In India turmeric is frequently used for toothaches and to heal gums.
Diabetes (type 1)
Turmeric
is frequently used in Ayurvedic herbalism for people with diabetes. Its
strong anti-inflammatory properties are important in this inflammatory
disease. It further helps by lowering blood sugar and increasing glucose
metabolism.
Menstrual Pain
Turmeric
is used to treat a variety of symptoms associated with menstruation. As
a blood mover it moves stagnant blood and reduces clots. It also works
as an antispasmodic on smooth muscle tissue, helping to relieve pain
associated with cramping.
It does all that AND...
It
is said to repel ants as well. Seems like every summer people in the
HerbMentor.com forums are wondering how to repel ants. I am hoping
someone will try it this year so we can hear first hand how it goes.
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