It seems that nowadays everyone’s talking about the miraculous ‘new’ natural medicine named turmeric or curcumin. In fact, India has known about turmeric for thousands of years, using it both as a spice and a medicinal plant with numerous health benefits. Western medicine has finally acknowledged the vibrant yellow root and its unbelievable properties, creating a new trend with one of the oldest remedies on Earth. Here are 10 proven health benefits of turmeric.
It’s packed with curcumin
Curcumin is the main active compound in turmeric with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They are so great that scientists compare curcumin to anti-inflammatory drugs – just without the side effects. It’s the best way to battle chronic inflammation!
It improves brain function
There’s a growth hormone called BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) that helps our brains function properly. Lack of BDNF can cause depression and the development of diseases like Alzheimer’s. Curcumin increases levels of BDNF in your brain, which boosts its functioning, increases memory, and prevents a number of disorders from appearing.
It prevents cancer
Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and curcumin’s incredible properties help reduce the growth of those harmful cells, working on a molecular level. Although there is still no evidence proving that turmeric can become a potent cure for cancer, it can definitely be used to prevent it from appearing, especially in the digestive system.
It helps cure arthritis
Most of people suffering from arthritis experience inflammation in the joints. Curcumin is a 100% natural anti-inflammatory cure that is more effective than special anti-inflammatory drugs that have a number of vicious side-effects, according to studies.
It prevents heart disease
Did you know that heart disease is the most common cause of death? That’s why scientists are researching it as thoroughly as possible. Turmeric improves the endothelial function of blood vessels, preventing blood clotting and regulating blood pressure. All this leads to reducing the risk of having heart disease.
It heals wounds
It’s good if you take turmeric internally, but you can use it externally, too! Curcumin has natural antiseptic properties that will stop wounds from bleeding, help repair broken tissue, and heal all kinds of cuts and wounds fast and efficient. The wound will stay clear due to turmeric’s antibacterial properties.
It improves skin health
Due to its anti-oxidant properties, turmeric has been used in treating skin problems since the dawn of times. You can use a turmeric/lemon mask to improve skin color, reduce acne scars, and make your face all smooth and radiant.
It promotes longevity
Inflammation and oxidation play a huge role in the aging of a body, so it’s only natural that turmeric with its anti-inflammatory properties can make you live a longer and happier life without a number of nasty diseases elderly people are prone to. It’s the ultimate cure!
It helps with weight loss
If you need to shed a few extra pounds or simply want to lead a healthier life, make turmeric a part of your diet to boost metabolism and detoxify your liver. This will help burn extra fat faster, losing those nasty calories at the speed of light.
It improves digestion
Turmeric has been known to ease bowel movement, reduce bloating, and eliminate the gas problem. If you’re having problems with indigestion, start taking small portions of turmeric with warm water and the effect will be almost immediate. You can also treat diarrhea with turmeric as it kills infection bacteria and parasites that cause it.