He indeed stands as one of Ayurveda's most remarkable herbs, a staple ingredient, in virtually every pantry, in all homemade beauty packs, every Indian bride adorns him for their radiant glow, packed with loads and loads of health benefits.
No curry is complete without its unique and delicious flavor. He is
Anti-inflammatory.Anti-viral.Anti-bacterial.Anti-oxidant.Anti-carcinogenic. Anti-allergic Anti-everything?
Ah, yes, turmeric! You've crossed paths with this golden wonder before, haven't you? Often found as a key ingredient in curry powder, turmeric's benefits are vast.
Key Takeaways:
Versatile Spice: Turmeric is an indispensable ingredient in Indian cuisine and homemade beauty remedies, renowned for its rich flavor and extensive health benefits.
Health Benefits: Turmeric exhibits a wide range of medicinal properties, including being anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, and even anti-carcinogenic.
Ayurvedic Significance: In Ayurveda, turmeric, known as Haridra, is revered for its ability to balance all three doshas, although excess consumption may aggravate pitta and vata doshas.
Therapeutic Actions: Turmeric has a profound effect on the blood and lymphatic tissues, promoting healthy circulation and detoxification. It also aids digestion, supports cardiovascular health, and boosts the immune system.
Skin and Beauty: Turmeric is celebrated for its skin-brightening properties and its ability to heal various skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It can also promote wound healing and alleviate inflammation.
Neuroprotective and Liver Health: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, supports brain health, liver function, and may even protect against certain types of cancer.
Natural Remedies: Turmeric offers a plethora of natural remedies for various ailments, including anemia, asthma, burns, conjunctivitis, diarrhea, pain relief, and more.
Precautions: While turmeric is generally safe, it's essential to use it cautiously, especially during pregnancy or if taking medications. Excessive consumption may lead to adverse effects, including interactions with blood-thinning medications.
Golden Milk: Incorporating turmeric into your diet is easy with golden milk, a traditional Ayurvedic beverage that combines turmeric, milk, and black pepper for enhanced bioavailability and health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions: Address common queries about turmeric, including its safety, dosage, health benefits, and potential side effects, to help readers make informed decisions about its usage.
This perennial herb goes by the scientific name Curcuma longa from Zingiberaceafamily, mimics a unique bulbous shape with tuberous rhizomes which can be eaten fresh or ground into a bright golden powder .Its alluded to by one of its Sanskrit name “Kanchani” which literally means golden goddess.
Based on its therapeutic actions it has synonyms like Rajani – which imparts ranjana (colour) , Nisha ( which is as beautiful as starts in sky ),Yoshita priya (loved by ladies ),Varna vilasini (imparts colour ) .Haridra (which improves skin colour and cleanses it )
Turmeric is omnipresent ,right from spicing up the gravies ,or being usedas home remedies for snuffy nose ,acne ,boils ,acne – the versatility of turmeric is remarkable .
Ayurvedic energetics of turmeric
Known for its age restoring properties or vayasthapana,turmeric is a vitality booster . Turmeric is used in Ayurveda to balance all three doshas , If taken in excess however, it can aggravate pitta and vata. Turmeric has a bitter taste an astringent energetic effect and its post-digestive effect is pungent and heating.
Turmeric has a particularly beneficial effect for rasa and raktha the tissues of the blood, plasma, and lymph. It brings a soothing and cooling quality to these tissues while at the same time enlivening their healthy flow and function.
Turmeric’s heating nature enables it to have a mobilizing and cleansing energy, which naturally kindles agni (digestion), helping to reduce excess kapha and any accumulation of ama (toxicity).
Now letsdive into the heart of haridra
Turmeric is one of the herbs whose health benefits just keep going In this blog we have tried to enlist few of those
· Immune System:
Being a potent anti oxidant ,turmeric helps to protect against and nullify the damage caused by free radicals
Being a effective immune stimulant ,it can help us to prevent from various infections
It can also help to prevent from various respiratory difficulties like Cold ,sneezes , UTI ,bronchitis etc owing to its anti bacterial properties .Turmeric milk ,has been traditional drink since ages which can cure cold and cough in no time
· Tackles inflammation
Turmeric ,one of the potent best anti inflammatory in global formulary is strongly indicated in inflammatory conditions like arthritis ,gout,Rheumatoid arthritis ,strains and also inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis ,urtricatia and dermatitis
The active ingredient curcumin protects soft tissues including cartilages thus helping in reducing swelling ,inflammation of joints and helping to ease joint pain and increasing flexibility etc
When taken internally or applied externally ,it can strengthen and fortify joints ,tendons and ligaments
· Cardio protective
A excellent and potent herb to lower bad LDL cholesterol and prevent clotting of blood and reducing the risk of strokes and cardiac issues .It helps to stimulate the growth of new blood tissues aiding in healthy function of heart. Oxidized LDL deposits in the walls of blood vessels and contributes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. Turmeric may also prevent platelet build up along the walls of an injured blood vessel, showcasing the beneficial effect of curcumin in reducing inflammation and preventing clotting. Platelets collecting at the site of a damaged blood vessel cause blood clots to form and blockage of the artery as well.
· Promotes healthy digestion
Stimulates liver enzymes helping for a proper assimilation of food ingested there by reducing Ama according to Ayurveda.It even helps to protect the mucousal lining of the gut protecting from irritation and inflammation in cases of colitis ,gastritis , IBS and chrons diseases .Being katu ,it facilitates the secretion of digestive juices . It works on improving intestinal flors helping in breakdown of protein.Owing to its cholagogue property ,it stimulates bile production and encourages excretion of bile via gall bladder
· For radiant skin
Packed over antioxidants that helps to brighten the skin and helping to heal the breakouts ,turmeric has been linked with almost all beauty products since ages owing to its healing properties .This powerful blend of cooling herbs along with sandal ,milk can remove tans and removes excess heat and toxins from the liver and purifies blood .It can be externnaly used to remove facial hairs
· Promotes faster wound healing
Due to its antiseptic properties ,it can facilitates faster healing to chronic ulcers topically .It can cure the inflammation caused by hemorrhoids
· Boosts the neuro health
Curcumin ,a stimulator of brain hormone BDNF .It helps to regenerate neurons and helps to fight against various neurological degenerative conditions
· A liver protectant
It can help to reduce oxidative stress and assists in liver regeneration .Turmeric can shrink engorged hepatic ducts and can help in treating liver conditions like cirrhosis and jaundice
· Turmeric for diabetes
Can improve fasting blood sugar levels and insulin resistance along with helping in reducing type 2 diabetes associated complaints and obesity
· Combat Cancer
Turmeric can retrain the growth of various type of cancer cells and used internally and external for various skin cancer types
· Menstrual health
Owing to its anti spasmodicproperties ,turmeric can help in reducing the menstrual cramps and help to smoothen muscles aches
· Enhances eye health
Curcumin in turmeric is proven to be as effective as corticosteroid in case of uveitis ,a inflammation of uvea
· Can alleviate any poisonous insect bites
Application of turmeric would be the first aid in most of the houses on an immediate cure to any kind of insect bytes, due to its effect of turmeric to reduce inflammation.
Natural remedies using turmeric
· For Anemia
1 tsp of turmeric juice with honey can help to cure anemia
· For Asthma
Boil 1 cup of milk with 1 tsp of turmeric powder. Drink warm.
· For Burns
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric with 1 tsp of aloe gel and apply to burnt area.
· Conjunctivitis treatment might benefit from the anti-bacterial effects of turmeric or its component, curcumin.
Mix 1 tbsp of crushed, raw turmeric in 1/3 cup of water. Boil and sieve. 2–3 drops of this mixture may be used in each eye up to 3 times per day.
· Complexion
Apply a paste of turmeric on the skin before bed, and wash off after a few minutes.
· Diabetes
½–1 tsp of turmeric should be taken 3 times a day.
1 tsp of amla juice with turmeric can help to reduce blood sugar levels
· Diarrhea
Take ½ tsp of turmeric powder or juice in water, 3 times per day.
· Pain
Mix 1 tsp of turmeric and 2 tsp of ginger with water to make a paste. Spread over a cloth, place on the affected area and bandage.
Add 1 tsp of turmeric to 1 cup of warm milk and drink before bed.
· Burning turmeric can repel insects.
· Inhaling the smoke can assist in coughs, asthma and congested nasal passages.
· Ears, Eyes, Nose and Mouth
Nasal bleed can stop by anointing turmeric and ghee in the mucosal layer of the nose, this traditional remedy leverages the effect of turmeric to aid healing.
· Golden milk ,a traditional turmeric milk with mix of turmeric ,milk and black pepper can cure from cough and any throat related issues
· Pack for pigmentation
Turmeric ,multhanimitti and rosewater can cure you from pigmentation
· For relieving a sore throat, mix one teaspoon honey with ½ teaspoon turmeric powder and consume 2-3 times a day.
Is Turmeric Safe?
Turmeric is considered safe and effective when used appropriately. It is recommended to speak with your healthcare provider before taking turmeric if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, especially since turmeric or curcumin supplements can have significant interactions.
Contraindications
Since turmeric can stimulate contractions ,its not safe to use it during pregnancy
Turmeric is best avoided in cases of acute hepatitis, jaundice, gallstones, bile duct obstruction, ulcers, and hyperacidity.
Caution should be used when taking blood-thinning and platelet-inhibiting medications because turmeric is a anti coagulant so if you are on a blood thinner like warfarin ,it may lead to excess bleeding.
So if you want to maximize the benefit of turmeric, the best way to have it is as nature has made it or in the form of a dietary supplement for more concentrated effect of curcumin.
Turmeric latte
Its better than coffee ,a perfect choice on winters .The bioavailability of curcumin is increased almost 2000 times more on combination with pipperine in black pepper .So just imagine the medicinal effects of this turmeric latte
Complex ?
Sounds like … but not
Its very easy to prepare this ayurvedic latte ,none other than golden milk
This age old recipe can cure many of your lacunas in no time and make you more energetic
Ingredients required
Milk
½ tsp of turmeric
Few shakes of ground black pepper and a pinch of turmeric or curcumin to enhance the flavor and health benefits.
1 glass of milk
Honey optional
Blend these three ingredients in a low flame until it becomes foamy And sprinkle some cinnamon for added flavor and can serve warm
The Main formulations in ayurveda using haridra
Mahatikthakamghrtham, Kalyanakaghrtham, Mahapanchagavyamghritham, Haridradighrtham, Punarnavamandooram with turmeric extract could enhance its anti-inflammatory properties., Gudoochyadi ghrtham, Khadhiragudika, Nisothamadikashayam, Gruhadhumadichoornam, Rajanyadichoornam, Lakshatailam, Mahabhootharavaghrtham, Arimedaditailam, Panchavalkadiagadam, Triphaladighrutham, Phalaghrutham, Sudharshanachoornam, Chandraprabhaguggulu, Jathyadighrutham, Marichaditailam, ,Kumaryasavam, Dhashangalepam, Nisamlakadikashayam, Nisha kathakadikashayam, Haridrakhandam.
Can I take turmeric everyday?
Yes you can but in recommended doses
What is the main health benefit of turmeric?
Boosting immunity and anti inflammatory actions
Can turmeric burn belly fat?
Yes it can due to anti oxidant properties
Can you safely take turmeric daily?
Yes but in recommended doses
How many teaspoons of turmeric should you take a day?
Recommended dose in 3 gms per day
What turmeric good for skin
It can bring radiance and glow to the skin and does purify the blood
Can turmeric help you lose weight?
Yes it burs belly fat
Does turmeric help with acne?
Yes it does .Its used in lot of cosmetic creams and applications
Can turmeric cause headaches?
May be when taken in high doses
Can turmeric cause constipation?
Sometimes it does affect the bowel including causing nausea ,dizziness
Does turmeric help with inflammation?
Yes ,curcumin in it acts as natural anti inflammatory
Will turmeric keep you awake?
It can help in quality sleep
Does turmeric have potassium?
Yes it’s a excellent source of potassium
Will turmeric stain your teeth?
Yes it can
Are turmeric supplements worth it?
High doses of supplements an interact with the ongoing medications .So consult with your practitioner about the necessity
Will turmeric affect beard growth?
There is no scientific evidence for that .Turmeric mask on face may improve the skin texture
Why turmeric with black pepper?
Piperine in black pepper can increase the bioavailability of curcumin by 2000%. It is always recommended to add pepper along with turmeric while cooking if it doesn't change the overall taste and appearance of the dish.
Will turmeric lower blood pressure?
Yes, it does lower blood pressure
Are turmeric leaves edible?
Yes.They are used edible and leaves a gingery taste
Will turmeric remove hair?
It may slow or stop hair growth but not permanently
Has turmeric got healing properties?
Yes, in many ways its a healing herb, refer the full article for the detailed information.
Do turmeric remove dark spots?
Yes it does. Its used in many cosmetic packs
Is turmeric a blood thinner?
Yes, it can interact with the anti-coagulants owing to its property for blood thinning, particularly due to the effect of curcumin supplements.
Should turmeric be boiled in milk?
Boiling may destroy the active ingredients of turmeric.
Does turmeric have vitamin C?
Yes, it does have Vitamin C content.
Can turmeric lower cholesterol?
Yes, it does reduce cholesterol if used properly.
Do turmeric remove tan?
Yes, it can remove tan if properly used.
Does curcumin have an effect on sleep duration in metabolic syndrome patients?
No, it doesnt affect the sleep duration