Turmeric Health Benefits: Turmeric is an ancient spice used mainly in cooking.Turmeric is used in food, cosmetics, and medicine. It is used as a spice in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is known to give a curry the classic yellow color and enhanced flavor. It is used as a coloring agent in cheese, butter, and other foods. As a result of Indian influence, turmeric has entered Ethiopian cuisine. In South Africa, turmeric is traditionally used to give a golden color to cooked white rice. This is an essential ingredient in most commercial curry powders.
Turmeric has many uses in Asian cuisine. It is used in delicious and sweet dishes and is widely used in Eastern specialties such as fresh turmeric pickle. It is estimated that turmeric consumption in Asian countries is 200-1000 mg per day or 160–440 g / person/year. Consumption is lower in urban areas (200 mg/day) than in rural areas (600 mg/day)
It is used to control pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. This is due to the presence ofcurcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric helps in treating diabetes by lowering blood glucose levels. Its antioxidant properties help reduce the risk ofinjuries, ulcers, and kidney damage.
External application of turmeric powder can help control skin problems such as acne due to its antibacterial properties.
It is better to avoid turmeric in the summer because it can cause diarrhea and dysentery. This is due to its hot potency. Although turmeric is moderately safe, if you take turmeric as a medicine, it is better to take a break for 1-2 months.
What are the synonyms of turmeric?
There are various names for turmeric in different languages. It is known as Halodhi in Assamese, as Halud in Bengali, as Indian Saffron in English, as Haldar or Haldad in Gujarati, popularly known as Haldi in Hindi and Punjabi. It is known as Manjal in Tamil and Malayali. It is known as Ameshta, bahula, Bhadra, dhirgharaja, gandaplashika, gauri, gharshani, and many other Sanskrit names. It is known as Haridra and Pasupu in Telegu.
What is the source of turmeric?
Turmeric is a plant-based herb located in Southeast Asia. It has been used since ancient times for spice, medicine, and flavoring and coloring food. There are known to have about 30 different species of turmeric. The name Curcuma came from the Arabic word turmeric, which means yellow. There are 55 other names in Sanskrit for Turmeric which are associated with religious and medical use. Alleppey and Madras are the two varieties that account for 82% of cultivation in India.With having a yield of 720,000 in the year 2015-2016.Curcumin is one of themthe most researched bioflavonoids today. Numerous studies have confirmed antioxidant,anti-cancer, chemoprotective, Anti-inflammatory, Gastroprotective, and many other healthproperties found in turmeric. Studies show that it is not toxic and can be tolerated in doses of up to 12 grams per day for consumption.
What are the benefits of turmeric?
Does it help in managing rheumatoid arthritis?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per Modern Science, Curcumin in turmeric inhibits inflammatory proteins such as COX-2 and reduces the production of prostaglandin E2. It helps to relieve joint pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
According to Ayurveda, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RI) is also known as Amavata. Amavata is a disease that takes place in joints caused due to exacerbation of Vata Dosha and the accumulation of Ama (toxic wastes left in the body due to improper digestion). The Ama, instead of being absorbed, is being carried out by Vata on a different part of the body and is being accumulated in joints. Due to its Ushna (hot) potency, turmeric reduces Ama and provides relief from Rheumatoid Arthritis due to its Vata Balancing properties.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Add 1/2 tsp of Amla and Nagarmotha with it.
3. Boil for 5-6 minutes in 20-40 ml of water.
4. Cool it to room temperature.
5. Add 2 tsp of honey to it.
6. Drink 2 tsp of this mixture twice a day after meals.
7. Continue this for 1-2 months for best results.
Does it help in managing osteoarthritis?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, curcumin in turmeric inhibits the activity of inflammatory proteins such as interleukin. It reduces the swelling and joint pain associated with osteoarthritis. Curcumin inhibits the activation of NF-2B (inflammatory protein) and improves mobility during osteoarthritis.
As per Ayurveda, Turmeric is one of the most popular herbs to reduce any body pain. According to Ayurveda, Osteoarthritis is caused by an increased risk of arthritis, also known as gout. It causes pain, swelling, and joint instability. Turmeric provides relief from osteoarthritis symptoms due to its water-balancing property.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Add 1/2 tsp of Amla and Nagarmotha with it.
3. Boil for 5-6 minutes in 20-40 ml of water.
4. Cool it to room temperature.
5. Add 2 tsp of honey to it.
6. Drink 2 tsp of this mixture twice a day after meals.
7. Continue this for 1-2 months for best results.
What are the benefits of turmeric (type 1 & type 2) for diabetes?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, turmeric contains curcumin, which helps control diabetes by lowering blood glucose and improving insulin levels. It also helps prevent ulcers, injuries, and kidney damage due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
As per Ayurveda, Madhumeha, also known as diabetes, is caused by poor digestion and Vata dosha exacerbation. Bad digestion leads toma's accumulation (toxic wastes left in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells, which interferes with insulin action. Turmeric helps eliminate Ama and controls exacerbated Vata to its Deepan (appetizers) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It helps in controlling the blood sugar level.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Take 100 ml of amla juice and mix well.
3. Drink once a day for 2 hours after eating.
4. Continue doing this for 1-2 months for best results.
Does turmeric help in managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
Although there is insufficient evidence to support the scientific modern scientific perspective; Some studies suggest that curcumin may reduce abdominal pain and discomfort due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
As per Ayurveda, turmeric helps to control the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). According to Ayurveda, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is known as Grahani, which is caused by an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). With the help of Deepan(appetizer) and Pachan(digestive) properties, the consumption of turmeric helps to improve Pachak Agni (digestive fire) and thereby helps in controlling IBS symptoms.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Add 1/4 tsp amla powder.
3. Mix both in 100-150 ml of lukewarm water.
4. Drink twice a day after meals.
5. Do it regularly for 1-2 months for best results.
How does turmeric help in managing stomach ulcers?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, due to the presence of antioxidant properties, turmeric has been found helpful in reducing symptoms of stomach ulcers. Curcumin in turmeric inhibits the action of inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2, lipoxygenase, and iNOS. It helps to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with stomach ulcers.
According to Ayurveda, Turmeric can help control stomach ulcers as a result of hyperacidity. Exacerbated Pitta causes this. Drinking turmeric milk helps in balancing Pitta and helps reduce the stomach acid level. It promotes faster healing of ulcers. This is due to its ropan (healing) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Add 1/4 tsp licorice (mulethi) powder.
3. Stir in 1 glass of milk.
4. Take once or twice a day on an empty stomach.
5. Continue this for at least 15-30 days for best results.
Does turmeric help in Treating depression?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, studies show that people with depression are more likely to have inflammation, which lowers the level of serotonin known as happy chemicals in the brain. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammatory-induced depression.
According to Ayurveda, turmeric can help reduce the symptoms of mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. According to Ayurveda, the nervous system is controlled by Vata Dosha, and an exacerbation of Vata Dosha causes mental illness. Turmeric helps to balance Vata and control symptoms of mental illness.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Add it to 1 glass of warm milk and stir well.
3. Drink this milk before going to bed.
4. Continue doing this for 1-2 months for best results.
Are there benefits of turmeric for high cholesterol?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
Modern science has shown that curcumin in turmeric lowers blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL), and triglycerides due to its powerful antioxidant properties. Another study suggests that curcumin prevents the liver from producing cholesterol and reduces cholesterol absorption in the body.
According to Ayurveda, High Cholesterol Comes Due To the Imbalance Of Pachak Agni (Digestive Fire). Poor digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (the toxic waste in the body due to improper digestion), leading to the accumulation of bad cholesterol. Due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties, turmeric helps control high cholesterol by reducing Ama. It also helps to remove toxins, which helps in removing blockages from blood vessels. Together, it can help lower high cholesterol.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Boil for 5-6 minutes in 20-40 ml of water.
3. Keep it at room temperature.
4. Add 2 tsp honey and mix well.
5. Drink twotsp of this mixture twice a day after any meal.
6. Continue this for 1-2 months for best results.
What are the benefits of turmeric for Alzheimer's disease?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, one study suggests that curcumin in turmeric may help reduce the formation of amyloid plaques in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces inflammation of nerve cells. Together, they may help improve memory function in Alzheimer's patients.
As per Ayurveda, Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss, tremors, disorientation, stooped spine, quaking, and cracked voice. These symptoms indicate an exacerbation of Vata imbalance in the body. Turmeric gives good results for Alzheimer's disease due to its Vata balancing property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Add it to 1 glass of warm milk and mix well.
3. Drink it before going to bed.
4. Continue doing this for 1-2 months for best results.
What are the benefits of turmeric for colon & rectum cancer?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, curcumin contains anti-cancer and anti-proliferative properties that prevent cancer cells from spreading. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and prevents the growth of tumors in colon cancer.
As per Ayurveda
Tip:
Take 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder.
Boil for 5-6 minutes in 20-40 ml of water.
Keep it at room temperature.
Add 2 tsp honey and mix well.
Drink two tablespoons of this mixture twice a day after any meal.
Continue this for 1-2 months for best results.
Helps in treating acne
Modern Science
Ayurveda
Studies show that turmeric, which contains curcumin, has good antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as per modern science. It prevents the growth of acne-causing bacteria (S. aureus) and reduces redness and pain around the acne.
According to Ayurveda, acne and pimples are prone to the skin, which has Kapha-Pitta dosha characteristics. According to Ayurveda, an exacerbated Kapha stimulates sebum production, which clogs pores. This leads to the formation of white and blackheads. Exacerbated Vata Dosha causes inflammation with pus and red bumps (pimples). Turmeric helps balance Pitta and Kapha Dosha; despite having Ushna (hot) nature, it helps to unclog and reduces inflammation.
Tips:
1. Take 1 tsp turmeric powder.
2. Add 1 tsp lemon juice or honey and mix well.
3. Add a few drops of rose water to make a smooth paste.
4. Apply evenly on the face.
5. Keep for 15 minutes.
6. Rinse with plain, cold water and pat dry.
How does turmeric help in managing inflammation of the gums?
Gingivitis is a disease of the gums that begins with plaque formation in the form of plaque on the teeth that causes inflammation from the gums. Curcumin has antibacterial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacterial plaque on the teeth. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation of the gums and reduce the risk of gum disease.
Tips:
1. Take two tablespoons mustard oil.
2. Mix with 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder and 1/2 teaspoon rock salt.
3. Mix well and massage the gums in the morning and evening with this paste.
How effective is turmeric?
Turmeric is known to be likely effective in managing High Cholesterol and Osteoarthritis. It is known to be probably effective in treating stomach ulcers. In the case of Alzheimer's disease, colon & rectum cancer, Depression, Diabetes mellitus (Type 1 & Type 2), Irritable bowel syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis, there is insufficient scientific evidence that turmeric can help treat the ailments mentioned above. There is inadequate evidence found in treating acne and inflammation of Gums. It is better to consult a doctor before consuming.
Precautions when using turmeric
Expert advice
As per modern science
1. Avoid overdose of turmeric or turmeric powder if you have GERD, heartburn, or stomach ulcers.
2. Although turmeric is safe to eat in moderation, turmeric supplements can cause shrinkage of the gallbladder. Therefore, it is advisable to take turmeric only after consulting a doctor if you have bile duct obstruction or gallstones.
3. Although it is safe to eat turmeric in moderation, taking high doses of turmeric supplements can interfere with iron absorption in the body. Therefore, if you are iron deficient, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking turmeric medications.
Moderate Medicine Intervention
According to modern science, turmeric lowers low-density lipoprotein (LDL-bad cholesterol) levels and raises high-density lipoprotein (HDL-good cholesterol) levels in the blood. Therefore, it is advisable to monitor your cholesterol level while consuming turmeric with anti-cholesterol medication.
Patients with diabetes
According to Modern science, turmeric helps in loweringthe level of glucose in the blood. Therefore, it is advisable to regularly monitor blood glucose levels while consuming turmeric ((although turmeric is safe to take with food) with anti-diabetic drugs and turmeric.
Patients with heart disease
As per heart disease, turmeric can help in lowering blood pressure. Therefore, it is advisable to monitor blood pressure while consumingturmeric supplements regularly (although it is safe to take turmeric in moderation) with hypertensive drugs.
Allergy
According to modern science, apply turmeric to a small area to check for potential allergic reactions.
As per Ayurveda, if your skin is hypersensitive, use turmeric powder mixed with milk or sandalwood powder.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
There is insufficient scientific evidence regarding the consumption of turmeric during breastfeeding and pregnancy and how it is safe to consume a moderate amount of turmeric during pregnancy or lactation. However, turmeric during pregnancy should not be taken in medicinal dosage. It may promote menstruation or stimulates the uterus, puttingthe pregnancy at risk. Do not take turmeric in medicine if you are pregnant. There is not enough reliable information to know whether it is safe to use turmeric medicinal dosage while breastfeeding. Be on the safe side and avoid use.
For Hormone-sensitive conditions
For hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis, turmeric contains a chemical called curcumin, which may act as a hormone called estrogen. However, some research shows that turmeric reduces the effects of estrogen on some hormone-sensitive cancer cells. Therefore, turmeric may be beneficial in hormone-sensitive conditions. In such cases, it is better to consult a doctor or physician before consuming.
Side Effects
There have been specific side effects recorded while consuming turmeric. These are:
Stomach upset
Nausea
Dizziness
Diarrhea
The optimal dose for the consumption of turmeric
Turmeric - 1/4 teaspoon twice a day or as prescribed by a doctor.
Turmeric juice - 2–3 tablespoons per day or as prescribed by a doctor.
Turmeric capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as prescribed by a doctor.
Turmeric paste – ½ -1 tsp or as needed
Turmeric oil - 2-5 drops or as needed.
Turmeric powder - 1 / 2-1 tsp or as needed.
How to use turmeric
1. Turmeric powder (Churan)
Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder t with lukewarm water or milk twice a day.
2. Turmeric Juice
a. Take 3–4 tablespoons of turmeric juice in a glass.
b. Dilute the volume to 1 glass with lukewarm water or milk.
c. Drink twice a day.
3. Turmeric tea
a. Take 4 cups of water in a pan.
b. Mix 1 tablespoon grated turmeric or 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
c. Boil for 10 minutes on low heat.
d. Strain it and squeeze ½ lemon and 1sp honey into it.
4. Turmeric milk
a. Take 1/4 tsp turmeric powder.
b. Add it to 1 glass of warm milk and mix well.
c. Drink before bed.
d. Continue this for 1-2 months for best results.
5. Turmeric essential oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of turmeric essential oil and mix it with coconut oil.
b. Apply evenly on the affected area.
c. Apply it during the night before bed.
6. Turmeric juice in coconut oil
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of turmeric juice in coconut oil.
b. Apply on the scalp at bedtime.
c. Keep overnight.
d. Wash off with a mild shampoo in the morning.
e. Continue it regularly 2-3 times a week.
7. Turmeric powder
a. with wheat flour
a. Take two tablespoons of coarse wheat flour.
b. Add 1 tbsp turmeric powder.
c. If you have dry skin, add three tablespoons of milk or yogurt.
d. Also, add one tablespoon of honey and make a smooth paste.
e. Apply evenly to face, neck, and hands and leave on for 10-15 minutes.
f. Rinse with plain cold water and pat dry.
g. Do this 2-3 times a week.
b. with rosewater
a. Take 1–2 tsp turmeric powder.
b. Add 2 tsp of rose water and make a smooth paste.
c. Apply it on the face and leave on for 10-15 minutes.
d. Rinse with plain cold water and pat dry.
e. Do 2-3 times a week.
c. With sandalwood
a. Take one tablespoon turmeric powder
b. Mix 1 tablespoon sandalwood powder.
c. Add ½ lemon juice and make a smooth paste.
d. Apply evenly across the face and leave on for 10-15 minutes
e. Rinse with plain cold water and let it dry
f. Do this 2-3 times a week.
Commonly Asked Questions
Q. How do I make turmeric tea?
Ans. Following is the recipe to make turmeric tea.
1. Take a piece of fresh turmeric (3-4 inches).
2. Boil water in a pot.
3. Filter the liquid and take it after meals.
4. Repeat this twice a day for better digestion.
Q. Should I consume turmeric as a spice or supplement?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, you can consume turmeric in the form of supplements. However, you may need a limited dose or as prescribed by your doctor. Due to the low absorption rate of turmeric, black pepper can increase absorption in the body. Therefore, turmeric should be taken after a meal containing pepper to improve absorption.
As per Ayurveda, you can use turmeric as a supplement or add turmeric as a spice while cooking. It improves digestion and appetite due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Q. Should I use turmeric powder or fresh turmeric juice to make turmeric milk?
Ans. As per modern science, you can use turmeric powder or juice to make turmeric milk, but it is better to use organic turmeric powder.
Q. Is it safe to apply turmeric milk on the face every day?
Ans. As per modern science, turmeric milk's daily use on the face can improve your complexion and skin texture. If you have oily and acne-prone skin, it is a good idea to replace it with milk with aloe vera gel or Multani mitti.
Q. Is turmeric very harmful to you?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, anything consumed in excess can harm your body. Turmeric is safe to take in dietary doses, but it is best to take the supplements only in the amount and time period recommended under a physician's supervision.
As per Ayurveda, due to Katu (pungent) taste and Ushna (hot) in nature, it can cause stomach upset if consumed excessively.
Turmeric has been safe for centuries as a spice and home remedy. To date, no studies in animals or humans have found toxic effects associated with turmeric use. Turmeric is not harmful, even in very high doses (not considering high dosages). The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted its clinical trial using turmeric and published and declared turmeric and its active ingredient curcumin as generally considered safe.
Therefore, in the United States and many other parts of the world, turmeric and its ingredients are currently used in cereals, chips, butter cheese, and other products. In the first phase of a clinical study on turmeric oil use's safety and tolerability, the oil was given orally to healthy volunteers for three months. No side effects of turmeric oil consumption were observed within three months: blood pressure, body weight, hematological, hepatic, or renal toxicity.
Q. Can turmeric help in improving thyroid health?
Ans. As per modern science, curcumin, an active compound found in turmeric, has antioxidant properties that reduce the risk of oxidative stress. It helps maintain good thyroid health.
As per Ayurveda:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Add 1 tbsp honey and mix well.
3. Eat twice a day after meals.
4. Continue doing this for 1-2 months for best results.
Q. Is turmeric good for high blood pressure?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to Modern science, turmeric contains curcumin, which helps regulate blood pressure by regulating angiotensin receptors' activity. Another study found that curcumin relaxes blood vessels and facilitates blood flow, thereby reducing blood pressure.
As per Ayurveda, due to the presence of Tikta and Katu Rasa (taste) and Ushna Virya property, turmeric can help in maintaining high blood pressure. These help in relaxing blood vessels facilitating smooth blood flow.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 tsp turmeric powder.
2. Add 1 tsp honey and mix well.
3. Have it twice a day after lunch and dinner.
4. Continue doing this for 1-2 months for best results.
Q. Is turmeric good for your heart?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, turmeric is good for the heart. This is due to the presence of curcumin, which has anti-coagulant properties. This reduces the risk of blood clots and the narrowing of the arteries. Curcumin also has antioxidant properties that prevent damage to blood vessels and lower bad cholesterol levels. Turmeric can also help control blood pressure by regulating the activity of angiotensin receptors. This ensures smooth blood flow to the heart.
The ayurvedic view is that turmeric is good for maintaining a healthy heart when eaten every day as part of the diet. This is because it helps lower high cholesterol and prevents the blockage of blood vessels—High cholesterol occurs due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Poor digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (the toxic waste in the body due to improper digestion). This can lead to the accumulation of bad cholesterol.
Due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties, turmeric helps control high cholesterol by reducing Ama in the system.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Take one glass of warm water or 1 tsp of honey.
3. Have it before breakfast or daily with breakfast.
Q. Is it safe to take turmeric on an empty stomach?
Ans. As per Ayurveda, turmeric can cause burning sensation inflammation when taken in large quantities on an empty stomach.
Tips:
Use turmeric with amla juice as the amla's cold energy balances the hot potency of the turmeric.
Q. Can I consume turmeric if I have gall-bladder problems?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per Modern science, although it is safe to eat turmeric in moderation, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking turmeric supplements if you have gallstones. Curcumin in turmeric can cause severe abdominal pain in the case of gallstones.
According to Ayurveda, it is safe to consume moderate quantities of turmeric. High doses of turmeric should not be used in case of gallstones due to its hot nature.
Q. Can Turmeric Help in Hepatitis?
Ans. According to modern science, turmeric can help reduce the risk of hepatitis. Studies show that curcumin in turmeric has antiviral activity and inhibits the action and replication of hepatitis B and C viruses.
As per Ayurveda
1. Take 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
2. Stir in 200-250 ml of buttermilk.
3. Drink twice a day after meals.
4. Take it regularly for 1-2 months for best results.
Q. Is turmeric milk useful for treating diabetes?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, turmeric milk is good for diabetes. It helps in improving blood glucose and insulin levels. This is due to the presence of curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
As per Ayurveda, turmeric milk is useful for treating diabetes. It helps to control high sugar levels. This is because it improves metabolism due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Besides, it reduces the risk of diabetic complications.
Q. Can turmeric help you in weight loss?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, turmeric contains a polyphenol called curcumin, which helps in weight control. Studies show that curcumin helps in weight loss and reduces obesity-related risks. This is because of the -inflammatory properties that are present in curcumin. Curcumin also inhibits the action of inflammatory agents secreted by white adipose tissue and promotes antioxidant activities. Through both of these approaches, curcumin reduces the adverse effects of obesity.
In Ayurveda, obesity increases the accumulation of Ama, which creates an imbalance in meda dhatu. Weight gain happens when due to unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle. Turmeric helps to control obesity by improving metabolism and reducing amoxicillin. This is due to the Deepan(appetizers) and Pachan (digestive) symptoms. It balances the MedaDhatu and hence reduces obesity.
Q. Does turmeric help with PMS?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to Modern Science, Premenstrual syndrome is a psychophysiological stress-induced disorder caused by an unbalanced nervous system. Curcumin in turmeric is anti-inflammatory. It acts on the nervous system and helps to reduce stress. It can help reduce the symptoms of PMS.
As per Ayurveda, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to the cycle of physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms. An imbalance of Pitta and Vata dosha spread to different parts of the body and cause various physical symptoms of PMS. Turmeric helps in reducing the symptoms of PMS due to its Vata balancing property.
Q. Can turmeric act as a blood thinner?
Ans. Animal studies indicate that the curcumin polyphenols present in turmeric have anti-coagulant properties. This helps in preventing blood clots.
Q. Can we consume raw turmeric?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, you can mix turmeric powder or its juice with hot milk or water to boost immunity. If you suffer from GERD, stomach ulcers, or heartburn, it is best to avoid turmeric.
According to Ayurveda, you can eat turmeric, but it is better to take after boiling it with milk or fry it with ghee to reduce its pungent taste as it helps in balancing its Ushna (hot) nature.
Q. Can using turmeric cause nose bleeding?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
According to modern science, animal studies suggest turmeric may increase the risk of nose bleeding. Therefore, if you have any bleeding, it is advisable to consult your doctor before using turmeric or related supplements.
As per Ayurveda, if you have excess Pitta in the body or consume excess turmeric, there can be nose bleeding symptoms. This is due to the Ushna (hot) nature and the Katu (pungent) taste.
Q. Is turmeric useful for cough?
Ans. Studies show that turmeric helps relieve cough, especially in the case of asthma. Volatile oils help to remove phlegm, relieve cough, and prevent asthma.
Q. Does turmeric remove black spots?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, can reduce dark spots if used regularly. Curcumin has good antioxidant properties, prevents cell damage, and repairs the skin.
According to Ayurveda, turmeric contains Rasayana and Ropan properties. These properties help to reduce turmeric and black spots and give clear skin.
Tips:
1. Make a paste by mixing turmeric powder and honey.
2. Apply on face and leave on for 15-20 minutes.
3. Rinse with cold, plain water and pat dry.
4. Do this 2-3 times a week.
5. Continue for 1-2 months for best results.
Q. Can turmeric help in curing psoriasis?
Ans. According to Modern Science, Curcumin in turmeric has good anti-inflammatory properties. It inhibits the action of inflammatory enzymes and reduces the inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis. Studies have shown that consumption of turmeric by people with chronic kidney disease three times a day for eight weeks showed a decrease in itching. Also, taking a specific combination product containing curcumin and black pepper or long pepper daily for four weeks can reduce the severity of itching and improve the quality of life of those suffering from itching caused by mustard gas.
Tips:
1. Take turmeric powder as per your requirement.
2. Mix with coconut oil and make a smooth paste.
3. Apply once or twice a day on the affected area.
4. Continue regularly for 2-3 months for best results.
Q. Can turmeric heal wounds?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, curcumin in turmeric has antibacterial properties. It kills bacteria at the wound site and prevents it from entering the body by opening areas. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It reduces pain and inflammation and speeds up the healing process.
According to Ayurveda, A paste of turmeric powder and water helps the skin heal quickly and reduce inflammation. This is because of its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 tsp organic turmeric powder.
2. Add water to make a smooth paste.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the paste to the wound.
4. Apply evenly over the wound; do not rub.
5. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor if you have a major injury.
Q. Can turmeric whiten the skin?
Ans. As per Ayurveda: When applied externally, turmeric helps to improve the overall texture of the skin. This is because of the Tridosha balancing property. According to Ayurveda, your skin color depends on Pitta dosha. Turmeric helps balance Pitta dosha, the bile duct, and restores the skin's normal texture and color.
Tips:
1. Take 1 tsp turmeric powder.
2. Add 2-3 tsp of gram flour (basin).
3. Add 1-2 tsp of lemon juice and a few drops of rose water.
4. Mix well and apply on the face, neck, and under the eyes.
5. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
6. Dry it and repeat 2-3 times a week.