How to Use Turmeric for Good Health

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How to Use Turmeric for Good Health

How to Use Turmeric for Good Health

Turmeric, often called the “Golden Root”, is a rhizomatous plant from the ginger family, growing in Southeast Asia.

Due to its incredible healing properties, it’s been used for centuries in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.

Turmeric contains around 100 curcuminoids, of which curcumin is the most active one. This component has powerful antioxidant, anti-microbial and anti- inflammation properties. It’s often used in alternative medicine for healing, regeneration, detoxification and pain relief.


Recommendation: our good friends at Golden Root, another Denver small business, make an incredible organic turmeric latte mix; check them out for one of the healthiest and delicious turmeric products on the market!  And for more insight into Turmeric and great recipe ideas, check out Golden Root's blogs:  Golden Root Turmeric Spiced Smoothie, Turmeric Protein Pancakes, and Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower


Keep reading to learn more about turmeric, its numerous health benefits and how you can use it to achieve optimal health.

The following infographic is provided courtesy of CogniTune.  Visit CogniTune for more health, nutrition and nootropics news and product information. 

 

Health Benefits of Turmeric

Fights Inflammation in the Body

Curcumin, the main active component of turmeric, has the potency to fight various inflammations in the body. Many health conditions like Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s and heart diseases all result from some sort of inflammation.

Curcumin can help prevent these conditions if consumed properly and regularly.

Fights Free Radicals

Turmeric is a strong antioxidant that fights free radicals in the body.

Free radicals are formed in the body as a result of air pollution, eating processed and unhealthy foods, stress and smoking.

If left to roam free in the human body, they can cause premature aging, various inflammations, and even cancer.

Curcumin binds with free radicals and neutralizes them. While doing so, it also promotes the immune system’s natural ability to fight off new ones.

Boosts Your Immune System

When the body’s immune system is weakened, it’s more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections.

One of the most effective ways to successfully cure the flu is to add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and honey. This health-promoting beverage can relieve coughing and promote mucus production to help unblock a stuffy nose.

Turmeric helps the immune system regain its strength to fight inflammation and infections on its own. Because it’s considered a digestive aid, it can reduce nausea symptoms commonly associated with the flu.

Helps Heal the Gut

A host of inflammations causing serious health problems occur in the digestive system. This is mainly due to eating processed, fatty and sugary foods that don’t contain any essential nutrients.

Prolonged use of antibiotics can also damage the gut flora.

One of the main reasons curcumin is widely used in cooking is because it helps the digestive system process the food better. It also helps relieve flatulence, heartburn and gas.

However, curcumin doesn’t absorb well into the body on its own. To get the most of its health benefits, it’s best to consume it in combination with piperine (a compound found in black pepper). Just a pinch of black pepper makes curcumin become 2000% more bioavailable to the body.

How to Use Turmeric for Optimal Health

In the Kitchen

Fresh turmeric root and dried turmeric powder are very versatile and easy to use in everyday cooking. Add them to savory meals to enhance the flavor or in homemade broths and soups.

When you’re coming down with a cold, golden milk is a proven remedy for sore throat, high fever and blocked nose. You can prepare it yourself or get a store-bought pre-made mix.

To make golden milk, you’ll need:

  •  1 cup milk of choice 

  •  1 tsp. organic honey 

  •  1 tsp. turmeric powder 

  •  1⁄4 tsp. ginger powder 

  •  A pinch of black pepper 

  •  A dash of cinnamon 


Blend everything together until well incorporated.

Pour the mixture into a saucepan and heat until hot (don’t let it boil).

 

If you’re mindful about the quality of food you’re consuming and prefer natural and organic ingredients, check out Golden Root. It’s a Denver-based company specializing in turmeric latte mixes. They use carefully sourced organic ingredients to make the healthiest, most delicious turmeric latte. 
  

You can choose between sugar-free latte for an ‘earthy’ taste or with a dash of coconut sugar for added sweetness. You can get the mix in individual sachets for on-the-go health boost or in a single 30-servings pouch for the entire family. Just add some water or milk and you’re good to go. 


If you’re a coffee lover, replace the liquid with freshly-brewed premium Sträva Craft Coffee for a complete health-enhancing experience.

In Homemade Cosmetics

You can use turmeric powder as an active ingredient in homemade cosmetics. Because of its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, curcumin can help treat a variety of skin conditions like eczema, acne, rosacea, premature aging, superficial wounds, burns and scars.

Mix this this precious spice with some coconut oil, honey and Greek yogurt for a soothing face mask.

To make an anti-acne turmeric face mask, mix together:

  • 1 tbsp. organic oatmeal flour 

  • 1⁄2 tsp. organic turmeric powder 

  • 1 tbsp. lentil powder 

  • 1 tbsp. water


Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a thick paste. Apply on a clean and dry face. Leave it on for 20 minutes and wash off with warm water.

Add a pinch in your homemade soap for smoother, clearer skin. You can also use it for teeth whitening mixed with your toothpaste. 


You can make your own natural turmeric toothpaste by combining the following ingredients:

  • 1⁄4 tsp. organic turmeric powder 

  • 1⁄4 tsp. coconut oil 

  • A couple of drops eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil 


Stir everything together until you get a paste. Brush your teeth as usual and let the paste sit for about 5 minutes. Rinse well. You should notice a difference after the first use.


Note that turmeric can stain your clothes, toothbrush, sink and possibly skin. If you have sensitive skin or are allergic, it may cause mild irritation. 

 
Important: Consult your doctor before using turmeric or curcumin in any shape or form for any purpose. Do your own research about the possible side-effects and risks of using turmeric both internally and externally.

Turmeric, the Golden Spice of Life

It’s hard to overlook the myriad of health benefits and practical uses of turmeric.
This ‘golden spice’ can help heal anything from skin problems to internal inflammations and should be a staple in everyone’s diet.

For more health and wellness tips, visit our blog where we talk about coffee, productive mornings and healthy living.

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Author Bio: Frosina is a freelance writer for hire specializing in lifestyle, health and wellness topics. When she’s not busy writing, you can find her savoring new coffees, learning all about digital marketing and dreaming of Italy.