Turmeric - Go for Gold
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. The same principle was stressed by Hippocrates. "Let your food be your medicine," was his advice to mankind.
This article is about turmeric - 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, however Ayurveda has immensely praised the medicinal qualities of turmeric for many more years. Turmeric finds its place in almost all ayurvedic preparations related to liver and skin disorders.
This herb has occupied the shelves of every Indian kitchen for the last 6000 years. It is considered as king of the kitchen, and is used daily in cooking. Apart from cooking, it is also used as a beauty aid and as a dye.
Turmeric (curcuma longa) belongs to the zingiberacae family and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in tropical regions. It is grown all over India, but especially in Bengal, Bombay and Tamilnadu.
Ayurveda appreciates the medicinal qualities and the colour 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 a full moon night.
- Gowri - yellow in colour.
- Krimighni - works as an 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 the liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal blood clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damage.
Turmeric is very safe, but special precautions should be taken in people who have gall stones, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and obstructive jaundice.
Ayurveda explains the qualities of turmeric as "light and dry". It has a pungent and bitter taste. It is widely used in skin, respiratory and liver disorders. It purifies blood and enhances complexion.
Medicinal Properties of Turmeric
Effects of Turmeric on the Liver
Ayurveda has recommended this golden herb to purify blood and prevent it from clotting. It is extensively used to protect the liver from toxins and microbial action. Turmeric increases the secretion of bile and promotes its free flow. Turmeric can also be used to overcome the toxic effects of alcohol on liver. It also reduces cholesterol and protects the heart.
Use half a teaspoon of turmeric with warm water to rejuvenate the liver and expel toxins from it.
Effects of Turmeric on the Respiratory System
Turmeric is very effective in treating 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.
Effects of Turmeric on Ageing
The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make us feel young. It reduces inflammation in joints, protects the heart, reduces cholesterol and keeps us very healthy.
Effects of Turmeric on Diabetes
Turmeric is widely used in ayurvedic preparations for diabetes. It lowers the blood sugar and increases glucose metabolism.
Effects of Turmeric on the Uterus
Turmeric initiates a regular menstrual cycle and reduces menstrual cramps.
Effects of Turmeric on Skin
Blood nourishes the skin and it is a known fact that pure blood always keeps the skin glowing and radiant. Turmeric purifies blood, nourishes the 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 the skin, smoothes it, and prevents many skin ailments.
Effects of Turmeric on the Stomach and Intestines
Turmeric enhances digestion, normalizes metabolism and expels intestinal parasites.
Effects of Turmeric on Wounds
Turmeric accelerates the healing process and readily reduces pain and inflammation. A thick paste of turmeric applied on wounds acts as an excellent antibiotic and anti-inflammatory.
Effects of Turmeric 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 us 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.
About the author
Dr. Krishna R.S has been an Ayurvedic practitioner for 19 years, since obtaining a degree in Ayurveda (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) in 1986 from University of Mysore, India. He completed his postgraduation diploma in allopathic medicine and surgery from University of Bangalore, Karnataka, India. His articles about Ayurveda and life sciences have been published in many magazines.
Dr. Krishna lives in Mysore, Karnataka, India. He gives consultations in Mysore and also in Bangalore the silicon valley of India.
91-0821-2451405
Send an email to Dr. Krishna
www.ayurveda-increaselibido.com
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