The benefits of turmeric
Turmeric is a mild spice best known for its dark yellow color, but in India and other part of Asia, turmeric is used to treat many ailments and other health conditions because they say it includes anti-inflammatory, antitoxidant and possibly anticancer properties.
Here is what WebMD has reported:
“Curcumin, a substance in turmeric, may help to reduce inflammation. Several studies suggest that it might ease symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, like pain and inflammation. Other compounds in turmeric might also be medicinal.
In lab tests, curcumin seems to block the growth of certain kinds of tumors. One study showed that turmeric extract containing curcumin could — in some cases — stabilize colorectal cancer that wasn’t helped by other treatments. But more research is needed.
Other preliminary lab studies suggest that curcumin or turmeric might protect against types of colitis, stomach ulcers, and high cholesterol. Based on studies, turmeric and curcumin might also help treat upset stomach, diabetes, depression, HIV, uveitis, and viral infections.
But it’s important to keep in mind that most of these studies have been done in the laboratory. Researchers haven’t yet conducted significant studies on the benefits of turmeric and curcumin. So it’s too early to say what health benefits turmeric might have.”
Of course more studies are needed, but turmeric taking with food improves the taste of food and can help certain health conditions. Before you start taking turmeric supplements, consult your doctor.
