Turmeric is a commonly used ingredient in Asian food. We frequently use it to flavor dishes. Turmeric is one of the most effective herbs which battle various diseases due to which it is very popular. The root of turmeric is additionally used for making medicine. Turmeric has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is an active component that gives turmeric its yellow color. The credit for turmeric’s health benefits goes to curcumin. Also, it is a natural antioxidant that has an anti-inflammatory property that helps to slow down aging. For centuries turmeric has been recognized for its medicinal properties. The medical and scientific world shows interest in turmeric, as it is an excellent source of polyphenol curcumin. People use this spice for conditions involving pain and inflammation. It is also used for fever, cold, cough, heartburn, and itching.
Health Benefits of Turmeric
1. Treats Cough and Cold
Consuming turmeric reduces fever symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching because of the presence of curcumin. Turmeric naturally flushes out microbes that blocks your respiratory tract by increasing mucus production. The anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties of turmeric battle infection, whereas its anti-inflammatory property relieves cough and cold symptoms. Having a glass of warm milk mixed with a teaspoon of turmeric powder treats cold or cough.
2. Prevents Viral Infections
Curcumin helps to battle a variety of viruses like flu, etc., so drink enough turmeric tea. Since turmeric contains only 3% curcumin, your body doesn’t absorb it well. So consuming an occasional cup of tea will not be sufficient to cure-all.
3. Provides Relief from Arthritis
Antioxidants in turmeric destroy free radicals that cause damage to the cells in the body. Its anti-inflammatory property helps to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Patients who have arthritis must consume the spice daily to relieve joint pains and inflammation. But remember that it is not a substitute for medication.
4. Aids in Digestion
Turmeric helps in relieving digestive problems by stimulating gall bladder to produce bile. It assists with decreasing gas and bloating of the stomach. Ayurvedic medicine uses turmeric as a healing agent for effective digestion. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric aids in healthy digestion. Additionally, it is used for treating irritable bowel syndrome.
5. Good for Brain
Aromatic turmerone is another compound in turmeric which promotes repair in brain stem cells. These stem cells help to treat neurodegenerative diseases like stroke and Alzheimer’s. Several studies show that curcumin might assist with improving memory of Alzheimer’s patients.
6. Boosts Immunity
Lipopolysaccharide in turmeric contains anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties that stimulate the immune system. Consume a glass of warm milk mixed with a teaspoon of turmeric daily, which reduces your odds of catching flu.
7. Acts as a Healer
Turmeric is a home remedy suggested by many for treating cut, burn, or infection. Due to its natural anti-bacterial and antiseptic property, turmeric is considered an effective disinfectant. Sprinkle the spice on the affected area, which helps to heal faster. Rather than taking a pill, try this spice when you have an upset stomach or heartburn.
8. Protects Your Skin
Skin the outermost protective layer keeps our body safe from harmful microbes. Certain skin conditions require treatment, such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Turmeric is mixed in face mask and other home remedies to treat the skin’s irritation and inflammation. It also accelerates tissue repair and improves collagen synthesis.
9. Battles Allergies & Asthma
When the immune system identifies a foreign substance allergy occurs. During this reaction, our body produces antibodies that respond to allergens, prompting other symptoms such as coughing, running nose, sneezing, and itching. Turmeric powder has an anti-inflammatory property that battles allergy-related symptoms and reduces asthma attacks. Curcumin may suppress runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
Summary
Turmeric is a wonderful medicinal herb that is indispensable in the home of all Indians. It is used not only for cooking but also for home remedies to treat colds and many other health problems. Turmeric contains a chemical called curcumin. Since ancient times turmeric has been used as a medicinal herb. It offers innumerable benefits to our body both inside and out. It is a most recommended home remedy for treating burns, cuts, and infections.
