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| Black Turmeric (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
Let’s know more about a very well known spice in Ayurveda yet not completely understood by the common man. Over the last several years, there has been increasing interest in turmeric and its medicinal properties. But Ayurveda has immensely praised the medicinal qualities of turmeric which finds its place in almost all ayurvedic preparations related to liver and skin disorders.
This herb has occupied the shelves of every Indian kitchen since 6000 years and is considered as the king of the kitchen. It is used daily in cooking. Apart from cooking it is also used as a beauty aid and as a dye.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) belongs to Zingiberaceae Family and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in the tropical regions. In India, it is grown all over but especially in Bengal, Bombay and in Tamilnadu.
Ayurveda appreciates the medicinal qualities and color of turmeric. This is evident through the various names of turmeric specified in ancient texts of Ayurveda. Some of these are
• Haridra – enhancer of body complexion.
• Kanchani - looks like gold.
• Nisha - imparts beauty by enhancing complexion which is as beautiful as full moon night
• Gowri - yellow in color
• Krimighni - works as an Antibacterial and antihelminthic.
• Yoshit Priya - used in Gynecological disorders.
In Hindi turmeric is known as haldi.
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 the liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal blood clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damages.
Turmeric is very safe. But special precautions should be taken in persons who have gallstones, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and obstructive jaundice.
Ayurveda explains the qualities of turmeric as light and dry. It has a pungent and bitter taste. It is widely used in skin, respiratory and liver disorders. It purifies blood and enhances the complexion.
Medicinal properties of turmeric – Go for Gold!
Effects of Turmeric----
On Liver
Ayurveda has recommended this golden herb to purify blood and prevent it from clotting. It is extensively used to protect the liver from toxins and microbial. Turmeric increases the secretion of bile, promotes a free flow of bile. This herb can be used to overcome the toxic effects of alcohol on the liver. This reduces cholesterol and protects the heart.
Use of a ½ teaspoon of turmeric with warm water rejuvenates the liver and expels toxins out of it.
On respiratory system
Turmeric 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 the lungs.
On aging
The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make us 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.
On Uterus
It initiates regular menstrual cycle and reduces menstrual cramps.
On skin
Blood nourishes the skin and it is a known fact that pure blood always keeps the skin glowing and radiant. Turmeric purifies the 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 the skin, smoothens it and prevents many skin ailments.
On Stomach and Intestines
Turmeric enhances digestion, normalizes metabolism and expels intestinal parasites
On Wounds
Turmeric accelerates the healing process and readily reduces pain and inflammation. Thick Paste of turmeric applied on wounds acts as an excellent antibiotic and anti-inflammatory.
On Yogis
Turmeric 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 to perform yoga with confidence and delight.
Is it not a wonderful treasure which nature has stored for us in this golden herb? Now let us start a gold rush.
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