Turmeric comes in a few different forms: finely ground powder, root and, of course, a pill (There's a pill for anything, right?) Obviously, the fresher, the better. Tumeric is a relative of ginger and, like ginger, has many, if not more, benefits to your health and skin.
Turmeric has been determined by many studies to help:
- Depression - not only does turmeric help depression, but it can make your antidepressants more effective.
- Inflammation and blood sugar - Turmeric is probably the most known for its use for fighting inflammation of any stiffness in joints but it also helps to lower one's blood sugar.
- Viral infections - As it is a natural antioxidant, turmeric helps fight viral infections.
- Premenstrual Cramps - Because it is anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, and pain-relieving, turmeric can be especially helpful during a woman's menstrual cycle.
- Cholesterol - Yes, turmeric also lowers your LDL which is your bad cholesterol!
- Alzheimer's Disease -According to the Alzheimer's Society in the UK, there is a lot of research into the potential role of turmeric as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease, along with some anecdotal evidence about its benefits. Much research is centred around curcumin, a chemical found in turmeric, which has been shown to have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-amyloid properties.
- Arthritis - OK. So this is where it helps most of us who are aging. Tumeric is probably best known to alleviate the pain associated with arthritis. I actually give it to my dog (yes, it is safe for dogs in small quantities) as she has lyme disease and her joints hurt.
- Acne - as it is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, turmeric, helps keep acne at bay.
- Headaches - Turmeric is a natural relief product for headaches, especially migraines.
So now you know how important it is to serve yourself some tumeric every day. So, how, you ask, do you incorporate it into your diet?
1. Make a paste with water and natural ground turmeric from Guidos, Big Y or the Co-op, in the Berkshires, and anywhere they sell whole foods). This is because tumeric is not easily digested in a powder form. Keep it in an airtight container for about a week or two. Use this to make tea with coconut milk, honey, and manna, if so desired. Follow the directions for Golden Milk (the tea)
2. Put it right into a casserole like a hot root-ish casserole (chopped potatoes, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash cooked with a drizzle of coconut oil in a 425 degree oven for an hour.
3. You can put this turmeric paste in anything, but watch out, it stains!
If you have any questions or comments, please send them along on the contact form and I will post and address them! - Julie