Healing Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric, best known as an ingredient in curry, has been used for the past 2,500 years as a natural healer. Chinese and Indian cultures benefited from turmeric's active element, curcumin, to relieve ailments from cancer to wounds. People who have gallstones or bile obstruction should not use turmeric. It can also be a uterine stimulant, so pregnant women should speak to their doctor before use.
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Anti-Inflammatory
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Turmeric contains curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory providing as much relief as most anti-inflammatory drugs, but without the side effects. It can help to relieve arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Cancer & Disease
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Turmeric is an antioxidant that can naturally help to prevent or reduce the risk of cancers and diseases, such as prostate cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, colon cancer, cystic fibrosis and Alzheimer's disease.
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Painkiller
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Turmeric can be used as a painkiller.
Antiseptic
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One of the health benefits of turmeric is its antibacterial makeup. For burns and cuts, it can be used as a disinfectant.
Other Health Benefits
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Those who use turmeric experience health benefits such as improved liver and cardiovascular function and lower cholesterol.
How to Purchase and Use
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Turmeric can be purchased as a dried spice at a local supermarket. Colors may vary, so this should not be used to determine the quality. Turmeric powder should be kept in a dark, cool place, and fresh turmeric should be kept in the refrigerator. Use turmeric when preparing vegetables, rice dishes, chicken dishes, dips and salad dressings. Be careful, turmeric can stain.
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