TURMERIC: a wonder herb.

TURMERIC: a wonder herb.

I can't really say enough good things about turmeric. Whether you use it in it's powder or root form...you take it orally, use it in your cooking or apply it topically...there are SO many benefits and good effects of this herb!I personally love cooking with it....it not only gives a variety of my foods like rice, dals and veggies a beautiful, vibrant yellow hue, but it adds tremendous health benefits like aiding your body in digestion, stabilizing your blood sugar after meals faster and it helps the immune system keep you healthy....more research in recent years has even shown that turmeric can help keep your memory strong and active, therefore reducing the chances of memory loss at a later age.Many people I know take 1 teaspoon of turmeric daily, as part of their morning vitamin & mineral- preventative health ritual.In Dr. Vasant Lad's book, Ayurveda: The Science of Self- Healing, he explains the properties and benefits as follows:

Turmeric. This herb is aromatic and a stimulant and has many helpful functions. It is bitter, slightly pungent and a good blood purifier, and works as a tonic to aid digestions and relieve congestion. It has a soothing action on respiratory ailments such as cough and asthma. It also is anti arthritic and acts as a natural anti-bacterial. Turmeric may be added to high-protein food to aid in digestion and prevent the formation of gas. It is effectively used to maintain the flora of the large intestine. To relieve inflammation of the tonsil and congestion in the throat, turmeric also may be used as a gargle: for this purpose, mix two pinches of turmeric and two pinches salt in a glass of hot water.Turmeric also has anti-inflammatory properties. For an abrasion, bruise of traumatic swelling, turmeric paste may be applied locally. To one-half teaspoon of turmeric add a pinch of salt and apply to affect area. Pain, swelling and inflammation will be quickly resolved. For the treatment of diabetes, turmeric is also useful. Take 1 teaspoon after each meal to help return the blood sugar level to normal.

Just one word of caution, this powerful herb does color everything it touches to a golden yellow...and that includes skin, clothes...and tile grout:). So, if you apply it topically, just know that it may take a few days for the stain it causes on your skin to go away.