12 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric {Including Turmeric Tea Recipe}
Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years; the herb has powerful anti-inflammatory benefits because of its high concentration of the antioxidant curcumin. Research has shown that curcumin may also help fight melanoma when the affected skin is treated topically with turmeric.
“Curcumin inhibits angiogenesis, which is the growth of blood vessels,” explains Susan Blum, MD, an integrative medical practitioner at Blum Center for Health. “A lot of cancer research is focused on ‘starving’ the cancer cells, and curcumin appears to be a potent inhibitor of tumor activity in animal studies.” Add turmeric to deviled eggs, pasta, and potato salads, as well as hearty savory soups, chili, and brown rice. Mixed with ginger, it also makes a tasty tea.
Table of Contents
12 Health Benefits of Turmeric
Antioxidant
Curcumin has the ability to quench free radicals that can cause mutation in our DNA.
Cancer Preventative
The cancer-causing effects of cigarette smoke, barbecuing, and smoke of any kind are suppressed by curcumin.
Anti-Inflammatory
Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory powers are as effective as many anti-inflammatory drugs, including effective as phenylbutazone and cortisone without the side effects.
Liver Protective
Curcumin has been shown to have a protective effect on the liver and is incredibly effective at increasing bile release, which helps with fat digestion.
Wound Healing
Natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties to keep the infection away from cuts and burns.
Super Brain Function
Curcumin greatly reduces the rate of mental decline. May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by removing amyloid plaque buildup in the brain.
Kills the Bad Guys
Curcumin has anti-microbial properties that fight the nasty guys such as Clostridium, Streptococcus, Entamoeba histolytica, and several pathogenic fungi.
Natural Pain Killer
Help reduce sensations of chronic pain. Yay more of this!
Promote Weightloss
Helps manage weight, and aid in fat metabolism.
Reduce Depression
A staple in Chinese medicine for helping lift mood in cases of depression.
Boost the Effectiveness of Cancer Drugs
Studies have shown that turmeric can boost the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.
Skin Healing
Can help internally and topically with psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Turmeric Tea
Prep time: 5 Minutes
Cook time: 20 Minutes
Total time: 25 Minutes
1 Serving
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- pinch of clove
- pinch of nutmeg
- tsp fresh ginger (optional)
- pinch of fresh ground black pepper*
- As much turmeric as you can handle! Start with a teaspoon and go up from there.
- 1-2 cups of water
- Raw honey to sweeten
- Milk sub of choice (I went with fresh coconut milk, but almond and hemp would both be delicious)
