What are the Benefits of Taking the Spice Turmeric?

Turmeric is a bright yellow-orange spice with a long history in China and India. Well-known as an ingredient in curry, turmeric is rich in manganese, iron and vitamin B6, and boasts potential as treatment for an impressive list of diseases.

Anti-Inflammatory

The bright yellow pigment of turmeric, known as curcumin, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may be effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, as well as preventing cancer and childhood leukemia.

Heart Disease

Curcumin helps the body clear dangerous LDL cholesterol from the body. Too much LDL cholesterol can lead to hard buildup in the arteries that restricts blood flow to the heart and may cause heart attack and stroke.

Cystic Fibrosis

In initial studies on mice, curcumin was shown to correct the most common gene mutation that causes cystic fibrosis. Further research is needed to determine how turmeric can be used for the same effect in humans.

Indigestion

Turmeric may reduce the symptoms of indigestion thanks to its ability to stimulate bile production in the gallbladder.

Eating Turmeric

Turmeric's warm and peppery taste complements rice, vegetables, eggs, beans and lentils.

References

• The World's Healthiest Foods
• University of Maryland Medical Center
• American Heart Association