Over the last several years, there has been increasing interest in turmeric and its medicinal properties.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) belongs to Zingiberacae Family and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in the tropical regions. In India it is grown allover but specially in Bengal, Bombay and in Tamilnadu .
Ayurveda medicine appreciates the medicinal qualities of this herb. The rhizomes or roots of this plant are used as medicine and for other purposes. The rhizomes are boiled, dried and then powdered. This powder is used for all purposes.
The active chemical component of turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin is a strong antioxidant and reduces inflammation by reducing histamine levels. Curcumin protects liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal blood clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damages.
Whilst the herb is very safe, special precautions should be taken in persons who have gall stones, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and obstructive jaundice. If you are in any doubt, please consult a professional first.
Medicinal Properties of Turmeric
For the Liver
Ayurveda has recommended this golden herb to purify blood and prevent it from clotting. It is extensively used to protect liver from toxins and microbial. Turmeric increases the secretion of bile, promotes free flow of bile. This herb can be used to overcome toxic effects of alcohol on liver. This reduces cholesterol and protects heart. Using ½ tea spoon of turmeric with warm water rejuvenates the liver and expels toxins out of it.
For the Respiratory System
This herb is very effective in bronchitis, productive cough and asthma.
One spoon of turmeric boiled in milk should be consumed with a spoon of pure ghee in conditions like bronchitis, asthma and productive cough. This gives very good relief and expectorates excessively produced mucous in lungs.
On Ageing
The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make us to feel young. It reduces inflammation in joints, protects the heart, reduces cholesterol and keeps us very healthy.
On Diabetes
It is widely used in ayurvedic preparations for diabetes. It lowers the blood sugar and increases glucose metabolism.
For the Skin
Blood nourishes the skin and it is known fact that pure blood always keeps the skin glowing and radiant. The herb purifies blood, nourishes skin and gives it a healthy natural glow and radiance.
A traditional face pack of India consists of gram flour, pure turmeric powder, milk and honey. This reduces inflammation of skin, smoothes it and prevents many skin ailments.
For Stomach and Intestines
Turmeric enhances digestion, normalizes metabolism and expels intestinal parasites
For Wounds
The herb can be used to accelerate the healing process and readily reduces pain and inflammation. Thick Paste of turmeric applied on wounds acts as an excellent antibiotic and anti inflammatory.
For Yogis
Because the herb purifies and cleans the body, it is a tailor made herb for yogis! It increases the flexibility of muscles, reduces inflammation in muscles and joints and helps a person to perform yoga more easily.
