What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is an orange/yellow spice from the ginger family that is native to India. It has been a staple in Southeast Asian cooking for centuries. The active ingredient found in turmeric is called “Curcumin”. It is one of the most effective nutritional supplements and has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine. Turmeric is so highly revered for medicinal use because it contains a broad range of antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic and anti-inflammatory properties. 

10 Health Benefits: 

1. Reduces Blood Sugar
   • Turmeric helps to reduce blood sugar and can actually reverse insulin resistance!
2. Reduces Cholesterol
   • When taken 2 times daily for 3 months, turmeric reduces total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides in overweight people. 
3. Reduces Inflammation
   • People with Rheumatoid Arthritis who took turmeric regularly noted reduced pain and inflammation in joints. 
4. Prevents and Treats Cancer
   • Curcumin interferes with cancer development and growth by disrupting cellular signaling. 
5. Prevents and Treats Alzheimer’s Disease
   • Turmeric removes accumulated plaque and fats in the brain which helps improve oxygen flow to the brain.
6. Weight Management
   • Turmeric increases the flow of bile which is important in the breakdown of dietary fat. 
   • 1 tsp at every meal can benefit weightloss. 
7. Healing Wounds
   • Turmeric is a natural disinfectant so it helps heal wounds. 
8. Helps With Depression
   • Turmeric boosts moods and, according to a recent study, is just as effective in treating depression as prozac. 
9. Improves Digestion
   • Turmeric’s phytochemicals assist the body’s production of bile which breaks down fatty components of foods. 
10. Detoxifies The Liver
    • Turmeric detoxes the blood via the enzymes and increases the body’s natural production of these enzymes. 
    • The enzymes break down and reduce the level of toxins in the liver. 

Try Out This Health-Boosting Golden Milk Recipe:

Ingredients: 

• 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
• 2 c. nut milk
• 2 Tbsp. Honey/stevia
• 1 pinch black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. ground turmeric
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Instructions: 

1. Warm the nut milk on the stove, medium heat. 
2. Add the liquid ingredients and stir to dissolve. 
3. Add the dry ingredients and stir to incorporate. 
4. Allow to gently heat for 5 minutes, then serve.