This golden yellow spice, commonly used as a powder to flavor Asian dishes, bolsters the immune system, purifies the blood and promotes clear, healthy skin. Turmeric strengthens digestion and eliminates toxins from the GI tract. It supports proper function of the pancreas and promotes healthy blood glucose levels that are already within the normal range. Turmeric soothes and nourishes the joint tissue and promotes comfortable movement.

The turmeric plant's (Curcuma longa) shiny, bright green leaves provide relaxing relief on the eyes. However, it is the root part of the plant, the rhizomes, that has been found to benefit one's overall health the most. Increasingly, Western scientists have recognized the medicinal properties of turmeric and are investigating new uses for the herb based on their findings. A natural polyphenol found in the herb called Curcumin offered an exciting array of medicinal uses.

The medicinal applications include harnessing turmeric’s potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ability to protect the eyes from cataracts, fight cancer by Inhibiting growth of new blood vessels in tumors, prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain. Curcumin's neuron-protective ability has shown promise in slowing the progression of neuro degenerative diseases and preventing hardening of arteries by lowering cholesterol and inhibiting fat oxidation.

These discoveries have encouraged herbalists and naturopaths to use turmeric to treat the above diseases as well as traditional ones. You can benefit from turmeric's intake in its spice form or by regularly taking turmeric tablets health supplement.