5 Health Benefits of Turmeric

Superfoods

“superfoods:”  foods that heal, help and renew our bodies. Turmeric is high up on that list.  Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that has been used for over 2500 years in India. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has been linked to multitude of health and beauty benefits.

1. Promote Weight loss

Curcumin has been proven to help weight loss and aid in fat metabolism. A diet high in turmeric can suppress the growth of fat tissue, according to a study, conducted by researchers from Tufts University and published in the Journal of Nutrition.

2. Liver Detoxifier

  It is a natural liver detoxifier, which speeds up metabolism and contributes to a radiant complexion.

3. Antioxidant

Curcumin is known for strong antioxidant  properties, making it a wonderful fighter of aging and disease in general.

4. Anti-Inflamatory

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a great treatment for arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, osteoporosis and multiple sclerosis. The newest arthritis drugs are COX-2 inhibitors (Celebrex.) Turmeric is a natural COX-2 inhibitor. In a 1999 study, British researchers noted its “potent anti-inflammatory action.” Turmeric may prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.

5. Increases Immunity

Turmeric is one of the best known immunity-boosting herbs.  Newsweek article (Nov 2005) described the downfall of popular prescription anti-inflammatory Vioxx. The same article  mentioned turmeric as a substitute anti-inflammatory. Some Italian studies compared Vioxx and turmeric for anti-inflammatory power, and turmeric performed just as well, with no side-effects. I always take turmeric at a first sign of a cold to increase my immunity.