Ingredient Spotlight : Turmeric - Curcuma longa
Turmeric is precious spice we get from a rhizome that is closely related to Ginger. It grows in the warmer areas of the world, especially in South-east Asia. When ground, it has a bright yellow color and is popularly used in curries. It is known for its medicinal qualities.
Active Ingredient: Curcumin is the active ingredient in Turmeric.
Some important medicinal points of Turmeric include the following:
Anti-inflammatory effects: Turmeric can help decrease inflammation in the body
Anti- Oxidant effects: Turmeric has potent anti-oxidant effects that protect your body.
Lipid metabolism: Turmeric can play a positive role in Cholesterol metabolism, by decreasing the bad cholesterol and increasing the HDL or good cholesterol.
Glucose metabolism: Turmeric may also help with glucose regulation and control in a positive manner.
Analgesic effects: Turmeric has been shown to help control pain in osteoarthritis.
Anti- Cancer effects: Turmeric seems to offer some defense against several cancers, this is probably related to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects.
Anti- Septic effects: Turmeric seems to have potent anti-bacterial effects.
Caution: Turmeric may decreases clotting and may increase the bleeding complications of medications like Plavix, Heparin, Warfarin and Aspirin and other NSAIDS.
Turmeric is excellent in sauces, curries, stews and stir fry. You can buy it Organic, and enjoy it in your culinary preparations. A majority of the recipes displayed on drpriyaskitchen.com have Turmeric incorporated in them. Remember, Turmeric is meant to be viewed as a food/spice and not a replacement for traditional medications.
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