Turmeric

Haridra is the Sanskrit name of turmeric. It is used in the traditional system of medicine. Haridra has entered deep into the beliefs and homes of Indian people thousands of years ago. Nowadays, the herb is used throughout India in ceremonies and rituals, in food, treatment, cosmetics, in various industries as an eco-friendly colorant.

It is used as an antioxidant and possesses various beneficial properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antiseptic, blood cleansing etc.

Ayurvedic Actions

Rasa (Taste)	Tikta, Katu
Virya (Energy)	Hot
Vipak (Post-digestive effect)	Katu
Guna (Quality)	Light, Rooksha
Doshic Effect	Balances p - k

Health Benefits.

Turmeric for Diabetes mellitus

Curcumin present in Turmeric might help manage diabetes by lowering blood glucose and by improving insulin levels. Turmeric might also prevent cell damage such as ulcers, wounds, kidney damage associated with diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Respiratory disorders

The fresh juice of rhizome is given in bronchitis. In rhinitis and cough, boil Haridra in milk and mix with jaggery given orally. In catarrhal cough, sore throat, and throat infection the decoction of rhizome is used for gargle and also the piece of rhizome is slightly burnt and given for chewing. The chemical constituents of Curcuma longa like Tumerones, curcuminoids, Curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin have an anti-asthamatic action.

Inflammatory disorders

Turmeric contains the chemical curcumin. Curcumin and other chemicals in turmeric might decrease swelling (inflammation). Because of this, turmeric might be beneficial for treating conditions that involve inflammation.

Cardiovascular disorders:

The antioxidants in turmeric also prevent damage due to cholesterol, thereby helping to protect against atherosclerosis. In fact, the ability of the antioxidants in turmeric to decrease free radicals is similar to that in vitamins C and E. Since the antioxidant activities of turmeric are not degraded by heat.

Hepatoprotective

Curcumin, the most common antioxidant constituent of Curcuma longa rhizome extract. Curcumin could delay the damage caused by progressive inflammatory conditions of the liver.

Neuroprotective activity:

Research suggests consuming turmeric may actually have a protective effect on the brain and nervous system. Curcuma oil significantly reduces the ill effect of ischemia. Brain ischemia is a type of stroke that is caused by a blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. The blockage reduces the blood flow and oxygen to the brain, leading to damage or death of brain cells.

Boost Immunity

Antioxidants like turmeric help to bolster your immunity and fight free radicals.

Turmeric for better digestion.

In both Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is considered a better digestive and a carminative, helps to improve digestion and reduce gas and bloating. It is a cholagogue (cholagogue is a drug or other substance that promotes the flow of bile from the gall bladder into the duodenum) stimulating bile production in the liver and encouraging excretion of bile via the gallbladder, which improves the body’s ability to digest fats.

As a cosmetic agent

Haridra is included in numerous recipes for clean, fresh, smooth and beautiful skin. It is contained in creams and masks for face and body, as well as in oil extracted from the plant, practically slowing down the aging of the skin. As mentioned above, the herb is a powerful antioxidant. It neutralizes free radicals and prevents various harmful effects.

Haridra suppresses the enzyme elastase, which breaks down the elastin fibers in the skin, the action of which leads to the formation of wrinkles and skin sagging. In addition, the plant is traditionally used for skin whitening and to improve the complexion, as it helps to lighten the age spots and freckles.

Dosage and side effects (only after consultation with an ayurvedic doctor)

Turmeric Churna - 1/4 teaspoon twice a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
Turmeric Juice - 2-3 teaspoon a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
Turmeric Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as prescribed by the doctor.

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