Modern times offer us a wide range of medicines, both prescription and over-the-counter. However, as the years go by, individuals are beginning to emerge among us who realize that even chemically produced medicines derive their power and effects from somewhere. The substances that the small capsules contain have their origin in nature. Just as our ancestors did, the pharmaceutical industry is realizing the healing effects of plants and fruits. But if you prefer to trust Mother Nature, and are troubled by joint pain, we also have a remedy for you straight from nature. Among the frequently used spices, yellowish turmeric has a special place. Already a decade ago, a study was published that pointed out that 2g of turmeric a day relieves pain as much as a high dose of ibuprofen. Thus, for Osteoarthritis patients, turmeric is a welcome aid.
Where it came from, here it came from, Indian saffron
This spice, otherwise also named turmeric, comes from the long turmeric tree. The rhizomes of this plant are boiled for several hours, dried and finally ground into a powder. It is used as an ingredient in curry spices and is a common ingredient in Pakistani, Indian or Persian cuisine. Turmeric is characterised by a bitter and peppery taste, reminiscent of mustard.
What are the other medicinal benefits of turmeric?
- It helps in prevention of prostate cancer, leukemia, prostate cancer or colon cancer.
- Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, it is useful in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or arthritis.
- In treatment of diabetes, it helps with lowering mean insulin levels, but in combination with strong drugs can lead to hypoglycemia.
- Lowers cholesterol levels.
- Lipopolysaccharide helps strengthen and stimulate the immune system. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which also helps in healing wounds.
- Improves digestion and helps in weight reduction.
- Purifies and nourishes, hence highly helpful in fighting acne.
Turmeric healing drink
Grind the turmeric until it becomes a powder. Chop about a two-centimetre piece of ginger, mix and pour 200ml of boiling water over it. Leave the ginger to infuse for about 15 minutes. Once strained, add equal parts lukewarm water, juice of half a lemon, honey, a pinch of chilli powder and a quarter teaspoon of turmeric.
This drink is good for warming up on chilly days, helps with flu or colds. Its undeniable advantage is that it combines all the healing effects of turmeric, so it helps with digestion, immunity, cleansing and speeding up the body, liver regeneration or in prevention against cancer.