Turmeric – Food as Medicine, at its Best!
Clinical Herbalist Reviewed on February 10, 2012 by Paulina Nelega, RH
With its distinctive flavor and color, Turmeric has long been recognized as one of nature’s most powerful “foods as medicine.” Like its cousin Ginger (they’re in the same botanical Family), Turmeric is as at home in the spice cabinet as it is in the medicine chest. Within the Ayurvedic tradition of India, this unparalleled herb has been used in both the kitchen and medicinally for over 4000 years!
Some of Turmeric’s many health benefits include:
• anti-inflammatory – especially for joints
• liver-protective
• supports detoxification
• strengthens digestion
• antioxidant
According to one study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism, Turmeric was found to significantly reduce joint inflammation in osteoarthritis. Its anti-inflammatory action is via the same mechanism as that of many popular prescription arthritis drugs: COX-2 inhibition. Turmeric provides its exceptional anti-inflammatory benefits, however, without the undesirable (and potentially life-threatening) side effects of some conventional arthritis medications.
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Our Expert
Paulina Nelega, RHPaulina Nelega, RH, has been in private practice as a Clinical Herbalist for over 15 years. She has developed and taught courses in herbal medicine, and her articles on health have appeared in numerous publications. She is very passionate about the healing power of nature. Ask Dr. Jan
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