Only a few years ago, turmeric was a completely unknown spice. However, over the last decade more and more people have been benefiting from the many benefits of this food.
It is a highly valued spice in Indian cooking, for its great aroma and slightly spicy taste. It comes from an herbaceous plant belonging to the family of zingiberaceae, and known scientifically as Curcuma longa.
It has a striking and characteristic yellow-orange colour, due especially to the presence of curcumin. That is why turmeric has been used for many centuries as a food colouring, especially in wonderful rice and meat dishes. And if you want to discover more about its properties we encourage you to read this post about the benefits of turmeric.
What is turmeric for?
It’s one of the best natural antidepressants
Even in ancient China, turmeric was taken in large quantities by all sections of the population. Well, because this spice is used to treat depression or any disorder related to sadness or low self-esteem.
Turmeric consumption stimulates the nervous system and secretes the production of serotinine, a component that helps us feel better and improves our overall mood. It is therefore recommended for all patients suffering from periodic or seasonal stress.
It’s very beneficial for the liver
Turmeric also has powerful protective effects on our liver by strengthening the gallbladder. It also prevents stones, has anti-inflammatory effects and drains the liver of all kinds of toxins and unwanted substances.
For this reason, it is recommended that it be taken by all those suffering from cirrhosis, jaundice or any disorder involving the liver, especially also in the case of fatty liver. A good way to drink turmeric is simply by boiling two litres of water and then adding 3 or 4 spoonfuls of this spice to take it a couple of times a day.
It’s a great remedy for bronchitis or nasal congestion
Turmeric has been taken since time immemorial to treat a multitude of respiratory conditions ranging from a simple cold to severe bronchitis.
Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help clean and purify all our lungs and therefore its consumption is recommended for those who suffer from chronic lung obstructions. It is also a great ally when it comes to increasing our defences and therefore helping to prevent all kinds of colds and flu. In this sense it is very useful to enjoy its qualities making a delicious turmeric tea.
It protects us from cardiovascular disease
Among the great benefits of turmeric that we have been describing to you, it is worth mentioning that this spice is also capable of preventing all kinds of heart disease caused by high cholesterol. It also helps to digest fats more effectively so that they do not accumulate in unwanted areas and also prevents all kinds of heart-related conditions such as heart attacks or arrhythmias that occur at younger and younger ages.
Prevents cancer
Turmeric contains up to ten anti-cancer agents in its composition such as curcumin and beta-carotene. Therefore, it is also an option to take into account when treating skin, breast, duodenal and colon cancer, serious diseases that millions of people around the world suffer from.
What is there to consider when taking turmeric?
Now that you know all the benefits that turmeric brings, it is not superfluous to take into account the following precautions when consuming it:
It should not be taken by pregnant women. As it can put the health of the baby at risk. Therefore, its consumption is strongly discouraged in women in an advanced state of pregnancy.
Neither should those who have just come out of surgery. Turmeric slows down blood clotting and will therefore take longer for wounds to heal.
Apart from all this, you have already seen that turmeric brings countless benefits to our health. So what are you waiting for to introduce it into your diet as a drink or tea? I’m sure your body will thank you for it.
This article is published for information purposes only. It cannot and should not substitute for consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist.