Turmeric: India's 'Holy Powder' Finally Reveals Its Centuries-old Secret

The Power Hour Turmeric or tumeric?

According to Joyce Riley(The Power Hour) you can sprinkle turmeric anywhere, salads, meat, any kind of food. And its excellent for preventing gallstones
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090420123051.htm ScienceDaily (Apr. 21, 2009) Scientists in Michigan are reporting discovery of the secret behind the fabled healing power of the main ingredient in turmeric a spice revered in India as "holy powder." In the study, Ayyalusamy Ramamoorthy and colleagues point out that turmeric has been used for centuries in folk medicine to treat wounds, infections, and other health problems. Although modern scientific research on the spice has burgeoned in recent years, scientists until now did not know exactly how curcumin works inside the body. Using a high-tech instrument termed solid-state NMR spectroscopy, the scientists discovered that molecules of curcumin act like a biochemical disciplinarian. They insert themselves into cell membranes and make the membranes more stable and orderly in a way that increases cells' resistance to infection by disease-causing microbes.

Journal reference: 1. Barry et al. Determining the Effects of Lipophilic Drugs on Membrane Structure by Solid-State NMR Spectroscopy: The Case of the Antioxidant Curcumin. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 2009; 131 (12): 4490 DOI: 10.1021/ja809217u

Adapted from materials provided by American Chemical Society, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

BUT ACCORDING TO THIS SITE,

GALLSTONES & AVOIDING TURMERIC http://www.livestrong.com/article/490325-gallstones-avoiding-turmeric/

Although turmeric is best known as a spice, coloring agent and flavoring for various foods, it has also been used medicinally for thousands of years for such conditions as indigestion, liver ailments, and arthritis. Today, turmeric is used for various health problems including headaches, depression and cancer. According to the National

Institutes of Health or NIH, turmeric can cause side effects and increase the risk of gall bladder problems. Consult your doctor before using turmeric medicinally.

Preparations and Dosing

You can buy turmeric supplements as a tea or powder or in capsule, fluid extract, and tincture forms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, recommended turmeric doses include 400 to 600 milligrams of standardized powder taken three times daily; 30 to 90 drops daily of fluid extract; or 15 to 30 drops of tincture taken four times a day. Daily doses of standardized powder above 8 grams increase the risk of side effects, says Drugs.com.
advertisement
Sponsored Links

Riviera de Santa Cristina Lotes de 450m Apenas R$366 Mensal. Empreendimento com Lazer
Completo!rivieradesantacristina.com.br/Lotes

Turmeric and Gallstones

According to Drugs.com, turmeric contains significant amounts of oxalate, a chemical that increases the risk of gallstones. A study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in May 2008 demonstrated that turmeric significantly increased the levels of oxalate in the urine as compared to placebo, or sugar pills, after four weeks of treatment in healthy individuals. The authors stated that increased levels of oxalate in the urine increases the risk of kidney stone formation in susceptible people.

Other Considerations
According to the NIH, turmeric is considered to be generally safe when taken in recommended amounts. However, it can cause side effects such as upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea. Taking large amounts of turmeric for a long time can also cause stomach ulcers. Because turmeric may cause extra bleeding during and after surgery, you should avoid turmeric at least two weeks before your scheduled surgery. Avoid turmeric if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Potential Interactions
Turmeric may slow down your blood clotting time, so you should not take it with other medicines that also slow clotting, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or warfarin, because this may increase your risk of bruising and bleeding. Also, herbs such as garlic, ginger, and ginkgo that slow clotting may likewise interact with turmeric. Turmeric may decrease blood sugar levels, and if taken with diabetes medicines, may cause your blood sugar levels to fall too low.
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/490325-gallstones-avoiding-turmeric/#ixzz2YSuVh3Td ANOTHER SITE:

Turmeric
http://www.joyfulbelly.com/Ayurveda/ingredient/Turmeric/12

ayurvedic notes
Turmeric invigorates and moves the blood. Its strong nature reduces and treats weakness. It stimulates blood formation. Its yellow color suggests use as a liver herb. A small dose cleans the liver and blood due to bitter taste. Turmeric is used in all blood and blood plasma related disorders, especially those due to Pitta and Kapha. Its heat alleviates Vata and Kapha. A large dose aggravates Pitta. Yogis use turmeric to help stretch ligaments and repair injury. Liver heat is connected to laxity of the tendons and ligaments. Spring Cleansing Turmeric improves circulation and thins the blood, giving the blood subtle quality to enter and clean the lymphatic system as well as all vessels and tissues. Its ability to move the blood dries dampness and increases heat. Turmeric's ability to support the liver while cleansing the lymphatic system make it an ideal herb for spring cleansing (along with beets and dandelions). Turmeric's blood moving, and clearing properties are also beneficial for use in arthritis. Liver, the Blood and Gynecology Turmeric stimulates the liver (ranjaka Pitta) and bile flow, dissolving and preventing gallstones. It is a blood purifier specifically used to promote beautiful skin and eliminate systemic toxemia, eczema, urticaria, psoriasis, and acne. It helps with itching and skin problems due to cold, dry or stagnant qualities of other doshas (sheetaPitta). Turmeric is often mixed with other bitter herbs to enhance its anti-inflammatory and liver clearing effects. It nourishes the heart and reduces cholesterol. Its anti-platelet activity prevents coagulation and reduces Kapha in blood. Its antiseptic activity is useful for infections, fevers, and sore throats. Digestion Turmeric improves digestive strength by increasing blood flow. It is an antiseptic that promotes "sweet intestines", or intestines free of bacteria and ama. Its haemostatic and anti-inflammatory qualities treat stomach ulcers and colitis. Turmeric improves rasa agni, or the "body's raw power to nourish plasma and the blood". It clears ama, Kapha, and fat in diabetes. Its blood moving qualities are useful in Alzheimer's. Turmeric destroys all Kapha accumulations in lower abdomen including endometriosis, amenorrhea, leucorrhea, fibroids, cancer and cysts from cold congestion. It promotes the flow of the menses and purifies breast milk. It specifically clears menstrual pain caused by arachidonic acid. Inflammation & Joints Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory with subtle quality to enter the joint space, reducing arthritis and inflammation, alleviating pain, and strengthening joints and tendons. It treats gout, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis. Its anti-inflammatory activities are also useful in

asthma, broken bones, and wounds. By its heating and blood moving qualities, turmeric reduces pain topically in bruises and sprains however it stains everything it touches. Other Those with cough and respiratory problems can drink turmeric milk (see Gold Milk). Turmeric smoke cures hiccups and lowers respiration. It is an anti-venom for King Cobra snake bites. The fresh root is used as a suppository in the rectum to cleanse and open the root chakra. Turmeric burns ama, reducing its diuretic effect. Contraindications include pregnancy, with other anti-coagulants, antiplatelets and (COX) inhibitors. Be careful when gallstones present. Caution in high Pitta/Vata. Turmeric in Chinese Medicine Turmeric, called Jiang Huang in Chinese medicine, addresses the spleen, stomach and liver meridians. It invigorates the blood, promotes movement of blood, unblocks the menses, chest and abdominal pain, alleviates amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea with cold deficiency, and swelling pain or pain due to obstruction. It expels wind.

about

Turmeric is a warm, yellow, earthy, slightly bitter spice used in ritual, medicine, and cooking. Turmeric paste is applied to bride and groom before marriage in some places of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Although a deep yellow color, turmeric makes a poor fabric dye because it quickly fades when exposed to light. Turmeric can be used as an indicator of acidic or basic properties of a substance.

Turmeric for Gallstones and more

http://curezone.com/blogs/fm.asp?i=980128
Here's yet another thing that curcumin does: it has been proven to increase the solubility of bile, that is, it makes it dissolve more easily. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver that helps you digest fats, but when the liver or gall bladder becomes congested, this fluid can harden, forming gall stones. Taking turmeric daily has been shown to eliminate up to 80% of gall stones in just a few weeks. It will also help prevent them from forming in the first place. Date: 7/27/2006 6:24:36 AM ( 7 y ) ... viewed 36426 times Turmeric: Better Than Celebrex Turmeric (Curcuma longa), besides being a popular curry spice, is also a COX 2 inhibitor, that is, it inhibits the action of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase-2 which is partly responsible for the pain of arthritis, so it can be used as an effective (and much safer substitute for the arthritis drug Celebrex and other similar drugs. It also contains a substance called curcumin which decreases amounts of prostaglandins (involved in the transmission of pain signals) and stimulates the adrenal glands to release natural cortisone, which also reduces inflammation. In fact, curcumin has proven to be almost as effective as cortisone in the treatment of some kinds of inflammation; and remember how I said in the first lesson on cayenne pepper that it depletes substance P, which is also involved in pain transmission? Turmeric does that too. In short, it's a safe and effective pain killer so reach for it instead of aspirin or other pain killers

(but remember to look for the source of your pain as well). Take advantage of its pain/inflammation relieving abilities for things like arthritis, bunions, bursitis, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome (inflammation of the wrist), gout, headaches of all sorts, geographic tongue (tongue inflammation), etc. It can be taken as a tea, in capsules, as a tincture, or applied directly to the painful area as a poultice or fomentation. Use your imagination. Also take a small amount daily (a teaspoon or so) and get on a good cleansing program to help keep the problem from coming back. One study in Thailand showed that taking turmeric is good for relieving the pain of ulcers. In Ayurveda, an East Indian system of medicine, physicians make a paste of two parts turmeric and one part salt to apply as a poultice to swollen areas. Some also add some ginger to this mixture. Dr. Michael Murray, N.D., co-author of the Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, calls curcumin one of nature's most powerful anti-edemic and anti-inflammatory agents. So use it both internally and externally wherever there is abnormal swelling. Curcumin also thins the blood and helps prevent blood clots. This is very important in preventing such things as strokes, heart attacks, thrombosis (blood clots inside a vein), etc. Here's yet another thing that curcumin does: it has been proven to increase the solubility of bile, that is, it makes it dissolve more easily. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver that helps you digest fats, but when the liver or gall bladder becomes congested, this fluid can harden, forming gall stones. Taking turmeric daily has been shown to eliminate up to 80% of gall stones in just a few weeks. It will also help prevent them from forming in the first place. It also contains several compounds that protect the liver from damage. Turmeric is rich in antioxidants like vitamins A (carotenoids), C, and E and others (yes, curcumin is an antioxidant too) which help prevent a great many complaints associated with old age like cataracts. It is also another of many herbs that is helpful for treating amenorrhea (stopped menstruation). Remember to consider whether the cause might be natural like pregnancy or menopause or due to under-nourishment. Turmeric also inhibits many common problem types of fungi and is useful for athlete's foot. Try adding a teaspoon or two to a hot footbath (soaking your feet in a small tub or pan of hot water). It kills various parasites as well, like lice and scabies (microscopic parasitic mites that infect the skin). Make a paste and apply it to all the affected

areas each day for a couple of weeks or until the problem is cured. For lice, it's also a good idea to boil your clothes and bedding to prevent reinfection. Take turmeric to get rid of other parasites too, especially nematodes. Turmeric contains four antiparasitic chemicals, each of which is not effective alone, but when combined, they make a strong worm-killing cocktail. This phenomenon is called synergy and you will never find it in any pharmaceutical drugs since they are all isolated chemicals. Only God's herbs have this advantage. Make a concentrated tea or tincture of turmeric to use as a yellow dye or ink, or use it as a food coloring instead of potentially toxic synthetic varieties. Turmeric helps the body to use insulin more efficiently, making it great to use for both type #1 and type #2 diabetes. Various studies show that it can help heal wounds (apply as powder or use the tea as a wash) and even help fight Alzheimer's Disease and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) (taken internally). And last but not least, turmeric has been proven effective at destroying certain types of cancer cells. The researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center conducted a study which showed that when curcumin was introduced into cell cultures containing multiple myeloma (a type of cancer), it stopped the cancer cells from reproducing and those that were left died. Previous research indicates that it may be effective in fighting other cancers as well (I'm not at all surprised). And best of all, it has no known side effects, even in very large amounts. Here are the free Bonus Formulas I promised you: First, some basics of making herbal formulas: Herbal formulas are a great way of addressing the many different aspects of a condition with one preparation. For example, a good formula for heart disease would probably include an herb to strengthen and protect the heart, one to nourish the tissues, one to thin the blood and increase circulation, one to regulate the heartbeat, and one to lower cholesterol and clean out the arteries (the elimination organs should also be cleansed). Formulas are also good to use because people are all different and while one might respond best to one herb, another might get better results with a different herb. I find that one of the herbs that relaxes me the best is chamomile; it puts me right to sleep, and valerian root just calms me down. My mother is the opposite - valerian puts her to sleep while chamomile is mildly relaxing/calming for her. By combining 2-3 (or even more) herbs that have the same general effect, or work on the same part of the body, you will have a preparation that will supply the

needs of a much greater number of people. One person might respond best to black pepper, another to ginger, and yet another to fennel, but if you combine the three, you'll have a preparation that will give them all marvelous results. These formulas are a great asset and healing tool, but they are not the only tools in your healing tool box; they are not an entire program, and you must address the root cause of a problem for healing to be complete and permanent. This course makes a great beginning to your healing journey, but please don't think that this is all you need to get well. Lifestyle changes and other natural treatments are also in order. Also, these formulas were designed so that you can make them entirely from the herbs in this course and while you will certainly see results when they are used properly, there are many other herbs that I normally use in such formulas to make them even more effective, that are not included here because I wanted to make these formulas easy and affordable for everyone to make and use (not everyone has access to or can afford Gymnema sylvestre or wild American Ginseng for making their formulas). Don't be afraid of designing your own formulas either, just research and learn about the properties of different herbs and put together a combination of herbs that address different aspects of a particular problem. You don't need a degree and you won't hurt yourself, just listen to your body and use your common sense, and you'll come up with a wonderful formula. And if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email them to me. Parts - "Part" just means an equal measurement. It varies according to how much of the formula you want to end up with. So if you have a formula that calls for 3 parts of one herb and 1 part of another, and you want to end up with 4 ounces of the formula, then each part would be one ounce. In other words, you would use 3 ounces of the one herb and 1 ounce of the other. Also, it is more accurate to measure parts by weight than by volume, in other words, use a food scale instead of a measuring cup if you can. If you can't get one, just estimate and don't worry about it, but if you are going to be making large amounts of these formulas, you will find a scale to be of great help. Once you have measured out your herbs, you can mix them together and then either powder them, tincture them, or do whatever kind of preparation you want to. Remember, the instructions for making preparations are in my free ebook that you can download right now. If you haven't already, you can do so by following the link at the top of this email. Some (rather inexperienced) individuals say that people shouldn't take multiple herbs at the same time because they are "risking side-effects from unnecessary medications." This simply is not true. These people are making the mistake of thinking that herbs operate in the same way that drugs do. They do not.

Drugs have harmful side-effects because they are toxic foreign substances that interfere with the body's normal way of functioning in order to control/suppress a symptom of an illness. Herbs, on the other hand, are entirely natural substances (foods) that were designed specifically for our body by our all-wise Creator and they work with the body, encouraging and supporting its natural processes and supplying it with what it needs to correct the cause of illness and heal itself. This is why herbs do not have the side-effects of drugs and why it often takes longer to feel results with herbs than with drugs; it takes longer to heal a problem permanently than to simply ignore it. The effects of herbs are very different from those of drugs because their mode of action (the way they work) is different. Healing herbs, when used with prudence and skill, will never have ANY harmful or damaging sideeffects of any kind, regardless of whether they are taken in combination with other herbs or not. Your body has the ability to take only the parts of herbs and foods that it needs and discard the rest. It cannot do this with synthetic chemicals and drugs; they are absorbed according to how much you take, rather than how much you need. Herbs also contain many nutrients (raw materials) to help your body build and repair itself and strengthen it so it can defend itself against disease; there is no synthetic chemical drug anywhere that does this. So don't worry about taking formulas with several herbs. Herbs are foods, and saying that herbs are harmful in combination, when they are not harmful alone, is like saying that people should not eat salads because combining cucumbers and lettuce with tomatoes might produce harmful side-effects. Give me a break! Drugs can interact harmfully with each other and sometimes with various herbs and foods, but herbs will not interact harmfully with any other herbs or with live, natural, wholesome foods. Herbs are NOT drugs, they do not operate in the same way, and they do not produce the same kind of effects/side-effects. The worst thing that can happen to you if you overdose on an herb that I (or another good herbalist) recommends, is that you would do a little vomiting. That's the worst case scenario and it's nature's way of making sure that you don't get too much of the herb at once. How awesome is that!? A medicine with a built-in protection mechanism against overdose! No drug can do that! One note on preparations: you can take these herbs in capsules, but you will get better (and faster) results from liquid extracts like teas, syrups, tinctures, glycerites, oils, and vinegars. See my free e-book for instructions on how to make these. Here are some suggested dosages: capsule: 2 caps 3 times a day

tincture/glycerite/vinegar: 2 dropperfuls 3 times a day oil: apply liberally to the affected part tea: 1-2 cups 3 times a day In emergencies or extra severe situations, take 4 times the normal dose or even more if necessary. For animals, children, etc. figure the dose by putting their body weight over 150, the average adult weight. In other words, an adult of 150 pounds would get the normal dose; a child or pet that weighs 50 pounds would get 1/3 of the normal dose; an overweight person of 300 pounds would get twice the normal dose; and a horse of 1,500 pounds would get 10 times the normal dose. This gives you a good starting dose, but keep in mind that you can go up or down from there depending on what the person's needs are. Here we go -- There are 15 formulas here, each for a different purpose. The proportions of each herb are given, followed by the reason I included that herb in that particular formula. Formula #1: Cold Formula 1 part Ginger [anti-infective, anti-viral, stimulates circulation] 1 part Rosemary [anti-infective, anti-oxidant, stimulates circulation to the head] 1 part Cayenne Pepper [Stimulates circulation, antiinfective, clears out sinuses] 2 parts Sage [decongestant, anti-infective] 2 parts Basil [anti-viral] (also eat lots of fresh garlic) Formula #2: Stomach Soothing Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [stimulates digestion and circulation] 2 parts Ginger [expels gas, stimulates digestion and circulation] 2 parts Fennel [expels gas] 2 parts Cinnamon [expels gas] 2 parts Cumin [expels gas] Formula #3: Hormone Balancing Formula 1 part Ginger [to stimulate circulation and carry necessary hormones around the body] 1 part Cayenne Pepper [to stimulate circulation and carry necessary hormones around the body] 2 parts Mustard Greens (if available) [to supply raw materials - that is, live vitamins and minerals] 3 parts Fennel [to balance hormone production and supply raw materials] Formula #4: Anti-Infection Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [to stimulate circulation and increase the actions of the other herbs] 2 parts Basil [anti-viral] 2 parts Cloves [anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal] 2 parts Turmeric [anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, anticancer] 4 parts Garlic [anti-everything-that-can-hurt-you]

Formula #5: Pain Relieving Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [anti-inflammatory, anti-swelling, pain relieving, stimulates circulation] 3 parts Ginger [anti-inflammatory, anti-swelling, pain relieving, stimulates circulation] 3 parts Turmeric [anti-inflammatory, anti-swelling, pain relieving] Formula #6: Anti-Aging Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [increases circulation, feeds the heart, etc.] 2 parts Ginger [digestive, circulatory stimulant] 2 parts Fennel [hormone balancing] 2 parts Garlic [anti-everything-that-can-hurt-you, strengthening, tonic, eliminates cholesterol buildup, increases circulation] 2 parts Rosemary [anti-oxidant, memory preserving, anticataract] 2 parts Turmeric [Liver-protective, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-cataract] 4 parts Oregano [powerful anti-oxidant, anti-cataract] Formula #7: Anti-Arthritis Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, pain relieving, circulation stimulant] 1 parts Ginger [anti-inflammatory, circulation stimulant] 1 parts Oregano [anti-oxidant] 2 parts Turmeric [anti-arthritic, anti- inflammatory, anti-pain, etc. - see lesson #15] Formula #8: Brain Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [increases circulation] 1 part Ginger [increases circulation] 1 part Oregano [anti-oxidant] 1 part Garlic [cleans out blood vessels, improves circulation] 4 parts Rosemary [protects/improves memory, increases circulation in the head] Formula #9: Heart Formula 1 part Ginger [improves circulation] 1 part Cloves [excellent blood thinner to prevent clots, anti-infective - infections can sometimes cause problems with the heart] 2 parts Cayenne Pepper [blood thinner, balances blood pressure, clears out arteries, possibly the greatest heart food/energizer in the world] 2 parts Garlic [improves circulation, cleans out arteries, anti-infective - infections can sometimes cause problems with the heart] 2 parts Oregano [anti-oxidant, anti-infective infections can sometimes cause problems with the heart] 2 parts Turmeric [anti-inflammatory - some heart problems involve inflammation of the heart muscle or blood vessels] Formula #10: Weight Loss Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [increases circulation and speeds

up metabolism] 1 part Ginger [increases circulation and speeds up metabolism] 1 part Mustard [increases circulation and speeds up metabolism] 1 part Garlic [increases circulation and speeds up metabolism] 1 part Black Pepper [increases circulation and speeds up metabolism] 1 part Fennel [increases circulation and speeds up metabolism] 1 part Turmeric [increases the solubility of bile which helps digest fats] Formula #11: Liver Formula 1 part Cayenne [increases circulation] 1 part Ginger [increases circulation] 2 parts Garlic [increases circulation, stimulates the liver] 2 parts Turmeric [increases bile solubility to dissolve stones in the liver and gall bladder] 2 parts Oregano [supports the liver, anti-oxidant] 2 parts Fennel [supports the liver] Formula #12: Cancer Formula 1 part Cayenne Pepper [increases circulation] 2 parts Oregano [anti-oxidants have been found to have a powerful anti-cancer effect] 2 parts Turmeric [anti-inflammatory, protects the liver which detoxifies the body and fights cancer, destroys cancer cells] 2 parts Cumin [anti-tumor] 4 parts Garlic [powerful cleanser, anti-cancer] NOTE: Also, eat at least 10 cloves of raw garlic per day and remember to do an entire healing program to address the root cause of the disease; don't use just herbs alone! There are also more powerful herbs that should be taken for cancer in addition to these, like apricot seeds and red clover. Find more information in my free ebook and on my web site. Formula #13: Diabetes Formula 1 part Cayenne [increases circulation, benefits the kidneys] 1 part Ginger [increases circulation] 1 part Turmeric [helps the body use insulin more efficiently, anti-edemic (helps prevent excess fluid retention)] 1 part Cumin [helps the body use insulin more efficiently] 1 part Garlic [helps the body use insulin more efficiently] 1 part Cloves [helps the body use insulin more efficiently] 1 part Cinnamon [helps the body use insulin more efficiently] 2 parts Mustard [supports the kidneys] 2 parts Fennel [hormone balancer, benefits the kidneys] 2 parts Oregano [protects against oxidative damage which is common in diabetes]

NOTE: also take large amounts of cedar berries (oneseeded juniper berries) for diabetes and (for insulindependants) be sure to monitor your blood glucose level so you can decrease you insulin dosage appropriately. Formula # 14: Nursing Formula 1 part Ginger [stimulates circulation, helps digestion] 2 parts Fennel [increases milk production] 2 parts Cumin [increases milk production] 2 parts Garlic [encourages infants to nurse more] 2 parts Mustard Greens (if available) [to supply raw materials - nutrients - to make more nutritious milk] Formula #15: Nerve/Anxiety Formula 1 part Sage [builds and strengthens the nervous system] 1 part Basil [builds and strengthens the nervous system] 1 part Rosemary [builds, strengthens, and stimulates the nervous system, but doesnt over-stimulate like coffee] 1 part Thyme [builds, calms, and strengthens the nervous system] 1 part Ginger [helps the nerves, soothing, warming and calming, anti-inflammatory, and increases circulation] Quick Reference Table of Contents for this Course: Introduction/Welcome E-mail Lesson # 1 -- Cayenne Pepper Lesson # 2 -- Ginger Lesson # 3 -- Sage Lesson # 4 -- Basil Lesson # 5 -- Oregano Lesson # 6 -- Fennel Lesson # 7 -- Black Pepper Lesson # 8 -- Garlic Lesson # 9 -- Mustard Lesson # 10 -- Thyme Lesson # 11 -- Rosemary Lesson # 12 -- Cloves Lesson # 13 -- Cinnamon Lesson # 14 -- Cumin Lesson # 15 -- Turmeric Herbally Yours, Chris Lewis, M.H. ><> http://www.ChrisLewisMH.com?ecourse Add This Entry To Your CureZone Favorites!

The Health Benefits of Turmeric

http://curezone.com/blogs/fm.asp?i=980118 turmeric

What Is It? Health Benefits Forms Dosage Information Guidelines for Use General Interaction Possible Side Effects Cautions
Date: 2/13/2006 10:06:53 PM ( 7 y ) ... viewed 4878 times

What Is It? Although best known as a spice that gives a distinctive flavor and yellow color to curry powder and mustard, turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a member of the ginger family and has long been used for healing. Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and other traditional medicine systems practiced in India have relied on this pungent spice for centuries, and so it's not surprising that the Asian subcontinent is where the most intensive research about this herb has been conducted. The plant's healing properties reside in its fingerlike stalk, which is scalded and then dried for medicinal preparations. This is the same part of the plant used to flavor, color, and preserve foods. Health Benefits In India (and to some extent in China), turmeric has been used for centuries to treat indigestion and a host of other ailments. But it was considered only a culinary spice in many other parts of the world until the early 1970s, when laboratory researchers discovered notable inflammation-fighting compounds called curcuminoids in the herb. The most important of these--and the most intensively studied by far--is curcumin. Among other findings, researchers discovered that turmeric (especially the curcumin component) has rich stores of antioxidants. In the body these important disease-fighting substances mop up unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals that can otherwise damage cells and cause diseases such as cancer. Test-tube studies done in the 1990s indicate that curcumin is as powerful an antioxidant as vitamins C and E, and even beta-carotene. Antioxidants are also powerful preservatives, which helps explain why turmeric has long been sprinkled on food to help retain its freshness.

In animal studies and in one human trial published in 1992, turmeric also showed promise in lowering cholesterol levels and fighting atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries that can lead to heart attack. Preliminary studies in mice indicate that the curcumin in turmeric may even block the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). The interest in the plant's potential for preventing neurologic diseases, such as MS and even Alzheimer's, was spurred by the realization that elderly Indian populations that consume considerable amounts of turmeric in their diet are far less likely than their Western counterparts to develop such ailments. Scientists conjecture that turmeric benefits such neurologic illnesses by minimizing inflammation, a theory supported by recent findings that people (Westerners in this case) taking anti-inflammatories regularly for arthritis are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. More research in this area is clearly needed before any specific recommendations can be made. Today, turmeric is widely recommended for myriad ailments, from stomach ulcers and skin infections to eye conditions (such as chronic anterior uveitis). The evidence for it actually working for any of these conditions is mixed. For example, there's no evidence that turmeric will help heal stomach ulcers but, when it's applied as a paste, it may well eliminate scabies, an itchy skin condition caused by parasitic mites. Specifically, turmeric may help to: # Relieve carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and joint inflammation. The antiinflammatory compounds in turmeric appear to ease inflammation. This makes it potentially useful for relieving the inflammation in wrist and hand joints associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, for example. In India, curcumin is considered a standard anti-inflammatory medication. It appears to be most effective for acute (as opposed to chronic) inflammation. Many sources recommend curcumin for arthritis-related inflammation and pain, but the evidence showing its effectiveness for arthritis is unclear. In a 1980 study published in India, rheumatoid arthritis patients who took 1,200 mg of curcumin a day experienced the same reduction in stiffness and joint swelling as those who took the prescription anti-inflammatory drug phenylbutazone, which can have unpleasant side effects. Unfortunately, the study was flawed because results weren't compared to a placebo (dummy pill) group. # Ease indigestion, excess gas (flatulence), bloating, and other mild stomach upset. Reinforcing an ancient use for turmeric, German health authorities have declared turmeric tea a valuable remedy for stomach upset. Laboratory findings back this up: The curcumin in turmeric fights bacteria commonly responsible for infectious diarrhea. Clinical trials have been somewhat promising for this time-tested use as well. In a widely cited 1989 study, Thai researchers found that 500 mg capsules of curcumin (taken four times daily) were far more effective than a placebo in

relieving indigestion. The study involved more than 116 adults at six Thai hospitals. And it was double-blind, meaning that neither the participants nor the researchers were aware of what each participant was taking during the trial. Nearly 90% of the participants taking the turmeric experienced full or partial pain relief after seven days, while only 53% of the group taking the placebo felt better. # Prevent cancer. In its role as an antioxidant, turmeric (presumably meaning the curcumin) inhibits damage to cells and thus helps to prevent certain types of cancer. In laboratory and small animal studies, curcumin has been found to hinder the growth of errant cells associated with cancer of the breast, skin, and colon, as well as lymphoma. In a small but interesting 1992 clinical trial of 16 cigarette smokers, those taking 1.5 grams of turmeric a day for 30 days had a significantly lower level of mutagens (in the urine) than a control group consisting of six nonsmokers. Mutagens are substances that can increase the occurrence of a cancer-causing mutation. Note: Turmeric has also been found to be useful for a number of other disorders. For information on these additional ailments, see our Dosage Recommendations Chart for Turmeric. Forms * tincture * tablet * powder * ointment * lotion * liquid * dried herb/tea * cream * capsule Dosage Information Special tips: --Formulations to take internally include capsules, fresh juice, boiled tea made from powder, and tinctures. --Topical formulations include creams, lotions, pastes, and ointments. --To treat a specific ailment, look for turmeric standardized to contain 95% curcumin. You'd need to consume 100 grams (about 3 1/2 ounces) of turmeric as a culinary spice to get a therapeutic dose of curcumin (1.2 g per day). --Teas are not as potent as formulations standardized to a curcumin concentration (and they don't always appeal because of the herb's distinctive taste). To make a tea, pour 1 cup (8 ounces) of boiling water over 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of powdered turmeric, let steep covered for 5 minutes, then strain, if necessary. Drink two or three cups daily, as desired.

For carpal tunnel syndrome, indigestion, excess gas, and other other inflammatory and GI-related ailments: Take 400 to 600 mg (containing 95% curcumin) in capsule form three times a day. Alternatively, take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of liquid extract, mixed into 1/2 cup of water, three times a day. Continue until symptoms are relieved. If there is no improvement after a week of continuous use, then it is unlikely turmeric is going to help. For cancer prevention: At this point, there is not enough firm evidence to recommend turmeric on a daily basis as an aid for preventing any type of cancer. However, you may want to take advantage of possible benefits simply by using turmeric regularly as a spice or even sipping turmeric tea. (If you have breast cancer, however, see General Interactions, below.) Guidelines for Use # Once inflammatory symptoms improve, cut the daily dose of turmeric in half. And once symptoms actually clear up, discontinue taking the herb altogether. Like other anti-inflammatory medications, turmeric provides no apparent benefit for inflammation after symptoms have disappeared. # Because turmeric is not particularly well absorbed when taken orally, you might want to look for products that combine it with bromelain, a group of protein-digesting enzymes found in the pineapple plant. The bromelain will enhance the absorption of the active compounds in turmeric. There are numerous commercial preparations combining bromelain and turmeric. General Interaction Test-tube studies conducted in 2002 indicate that the curcumin in turmeric, even when ingested simply as a part of the diet as a spice, may interfere with the proper functioning of breast cancer chemotherapy agents. Although more research is needed, it's best to talk with your doctor before consuming turmeric when being treated with such chemotherapy drugs as mechlorethamine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide. There are no other known drug or nutrient interactions associated with turmeric. Note: For information on interactions with specific generic drugs, see our WholeHealthMD Drug/Nutrient Interactions Chart. Possible Side Effects # While turmeric is safe to take at recommended doses, prolonged use of higher than recommended doses can cause stomach upset and other gastrointestinal disturbances. Cautions # Don't take turmeric if you have a bile duct blockage or a blood-clotting disorder, or if you have a history of stomach ulcers; it may negatively affect

these conditions. # Because the risks are unknown, avoid medicinal amounts of turmeric (or concentrated curcumin) if you are trying to conceive, are pregnant, or are breast-feeding. # If you have gallstones or any gallbladder problems, you probably should not use turmeric supplements. This caution stems in part from a small 1999 study (of 12 people) which found that curcumin in low doses stimulated contractions of the gallbladder. This means that turmeric could potentially harm a person with gallbladder problems. http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10062,00.html