Turmeric - Go for Gold
By Dr. Krishna.R.S
Ayurveda the ancient medical science
is based on the principle of preventing diseases. It directs us to resist the
diseases through our food habits and life styles. Same principle was stressed by
Hippocrates also “Let your food be your medicine” was his advice to man kind
Let’s know more about a very well known spice in Ayurveda yet not completely
understood by 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 king of kitchen. It is used daily in cooking. Apart from
cooking it is also used as beauty aid and as a dye.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) belongs to Zingiberacae Family and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in the tropical regions .In India it is grown allover but specially 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 a Antibacterial and antihelmenthic.
• 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 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 gall stones, hyperacidity,
stomach ulcers and obstructive jaundice. Ayurveda explains the qualities of
turmeric as light and dry. It has pungent and bitter taste. It is widely used in
skin, respiratory and liver disorders. It purifies blood and enhances
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 liver from toxins and microbial.
Turmeric increases the secretion of bile, promotes free flow of bile. This herb
can be used to overcome toxic effects of alcohol on liver. This reduces
cholesterol and protects heart.
Use of ½ tea spoon 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 lungs.
On ageing
The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make us to 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 known fact that pure blood always keeps the
skin glowing and radiant. Turmeric purifies 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
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 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.
This article is copy righted. The author Dr.Krishna.R.S is an Ayurvedic
Physician and web master of
http://www.ayurveda-increaselibido.com contact him
drkrishnars@gmail.com .
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