One of the most recognised Indian spices in the culinary world is turmeric. It is also known for its health benefits. According to popular belief, it has miraculous and sometimes reasonable properties.
But what exactly is it, about this super food? To find out more about this spice, here is the information about it and its health benefits.
History of turmeric
Located in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India and Myanmar, turmeric comes from a medicinal plant. It has been used in Indian medicine for a very long time in Ayurvedic medicine and is also used in traditional Chinese and Indonesian medicine. Its effectiveness was only proven for a very long time and it is then known as a remedy for eye and skin diseases. Specialists have also known that it can be used for people with appetite problems. Apart from dissolving kidney stones, it will treat urinary, spleen and liver diseases.
At present, it is more popular in the field of aromatherapy and phytotherapy. Scientific researchers have even discovered that it will reduce the risk of lung, breast, colon and kidney cancer. This is why they recommend using it in the kitchen. The only requirement is a dose of 2 g per day. Regular consumption of turmeric is then recommended.
Components of turmeric
Although turmeric contains its own constituents, it is important to know that these depend on its quality and form. This type of spice can be in root, tablet or powder form. But whatever the case, turmeric consists of curcumin, its main active substance. It is a very strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. These give turmeric its antioxidant effects on the body. The more curcumin in turmeric, the more beneficial it is for the body.
How to use turmeric
For people who love spices, it is important to know that turmeric can be used in many different ways. To use it in cooking, take half a teaspoon to a teaspoon in the daily meal, or 1. 5 g and 3 g. For infusion, 1 to 1. 5 g of turmeric powder should be mixed with 150 ml of boiled water. Once this is done, it can be infused for a quarter of an hour, and then it becomes drinkable.
For this, 2 cups a day will suffice for daily intake. For external application, it is best to see and follow the recipe for the turmeric mask. Depending on its use, it can be used as an essential oil or in capsule form.
Precautions before using turmeric
Concerning contraindications, a high quantity of turmeric is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. According to the analyses deduced from certain patients, turmeric increases the effect of anticoagulants, of the anti-diabetic treatment and of the anti-acid treatment. In case of gallbladder problems, it is also necessary to take it with caution. Despite its effectiveness in the production of gallstones, taking it may increase this type of problem.
The effects of turmeric on the body
- Once again, turmeric is a spice with its own unique properties. It plays an important role in the prevention of cancer and the protection of age-related diseases.
- For people with organ and tissue problems, turmeric can help relieve these conditions. Everything that affects the nervous system, skin, joints, muscles, tendons and the digestive system can be cured by this Indian spice.
- With its ability to fight scars, sceptics and bacteria, turmeric fights acne and psoriasis by using it in paste form. For a light wound or a cut or a scrape, this type of spice will be able to heal them. It will even relieve redness. In India, it is used as a natural hair removal mask to prevent hair growth.
- Turmeric prevents stomach acidity. If the stomach is subject to excess secretion of hydrochloric acid caused for example by meals rich in meat, tobacco, energy drinks, the infusion of turmeric with a dash of honey and lemon is a quick and efficient treatment.
- According to studies, turmeric helps to alleviate diarrhoea by preventing damage to the intestinal wall. The best way to do this is to drink a turmeric tea twice a day.
- In case of bloating, it is important to regularly consume turmeric in infusion or in cooking. This spice is beneficial for all types of digestive problems. Whether it is heartburn, abdominal pain or nausea, turmeric is an effective remedy.
- For pregnant women or people who have motion sickness or chronic nausea, taking turmeric with ginger is effective. For this, ginger should be added to the infusion of this turmeric.
- Stomach ache linked to fatigue, loss of appetite, dyspepsia and abdominal pain, for example, will be relieved by taking turmeric regularly. Turmeric also prevents germs in case of gastroenteritis. It is also an excellent protection against constipation.
- Turmeric also relieves irritable bowel syndrome and reduces attacks caused by Crohn's disease. Turmeric is also effective in treating gum inflammation. As far as tooth whitening is concerned, this spice is excellent. It is widely used in oral health.
