Turmeric has a peppery, warm and bitter flavour. Known as the main spice in curry, it is without a doubt the most powerful herb on the planet. It’s a strong anti-inflammatory, and is well known for fighting and potentially reversing diseases. Throughout history, turmeric has been used as a healing remedy, a textile dye and a condiment.
Health benefits of turmeric
Turmeric is popular in both the Chinese and Indian systems of medicine, and has been used for centuries in treating a wide variety of conditions including toothache, colic, chest pain and jaundice.
Turmeric is one of the most frequently mentioned medicinal herbs in all of science. In over 6,000 studies, research has shown that the benefits of using turmeric are equal to that of many pharmaceutical medications.
Turmeric’s yellow or orange pigment is called curcumin. Curcumin is turmeric’s primary pharmaceutical agent, and in a wide variety of scientific and medical studies it has been proven to be comparable to potent over the counter and pharmaceutical drugs. Highlighted below are some of the extraordinary benefits of turmeric and curcumin:
- A safe yet strong anti-inflammatory
Turmeric is a safe alternative to pharmaceutical medications. It reduces anti-inflammatory conditions without the toxicity that some medications produce
- An effective treatment for bowel disease
It’s been proven that turmeric can reduce the inflammation of bowel diseases such as Crohn’s. Turmeric reduces the irritation caused by the thickening of the intestinal wall. Even small doses of turmeric are beneficial.
- Relief for rheumatoid arthritis
Due to the fact that turmeric is a powerful antioxidant, it is able to neutralize free radicals in the body. This is important in a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis as free radicals are responsible for all of the joint pain this disease causes.
- Improved liver function
In addition to its antioxidant properties, turmeric also increases detoxification systems. This is great news as it aids the liver in detoxifying toxic chemicals from the body.
- Cardiovascular protection
Studies have shown that turmeric possibly prevents the oxidation of cholesterol in the body. Oxidized cholesterol is what damages blood vessels and builds up the plaques that can eventually lead to a heart attack or stroke. Turmeric’s ability to prevent the oxidation of new cholesterol may reduce the progression of diabetic heart disease all together.
How to enjoy turmeric
Now that you know some of the important health benefits of turmeric, you 
might be wondering how to enjoy this super medicinal herb. Here are a few ideas for incorporating the spice into your daily diet, and reaping the benefits of terrific turmeric:
- Turmeric is a great compliment to recipes that feature lentils
- Add turmeric to egg salad
- Season salad dressings with turmeric
- Saute cauliflower florets in turmeric
- Mix turmeric with brown rice, cumin and coriander for a healthy, flavourful treat
Terrific Turmeric in Phuket
If you are looking to change your diet and incorporate foods and spices, such as turmeric, that are good for you into your daily eating plan, please come visit our wonderful vegetarian & vegan restaurant here at Santosa Detox and Wellness Center. Our chef makes delightful, satisfying dishes from locally grown, fresh produce and ingredients. For further information, simply fill out the enquiry form below.