Discover turmeric! The 10 benefits of fashion superfood
Have you ever tried turmeric? This yellow species so used in countries like China or India not only brings an intense flavor to the meals, but has countless almost miraculous properties that make it an essential product in any diet. The turmeric , one of the stars of alternative medicine, can be taken in powder incorporated in foods like soups, stews or shakes , pills, or in its natural state, in a similar to ginger root. If you want to know what benefits this superfood can bring you, keep reading!
Turmeric © iStock
1. Revitalized skin
Turmeric has been used as a beauty product for centuries in both India and China. Because of its antiseptic and antibacterial properties , turmeric is effective against acne and oily skin because it reduces inflammation and reduces the secretion of oil from the sebaceous glands. Applied directly on the skin, turmeric can also serve to lighten spots, conceal stretch marks and prevent wrinkles.
2. Regulate your menstrual cycles
The menstrual cycle is closely related to diet, and if you have an irregular rule, you may need to watch your diet. Turmeric has the ability to regulate menstruation in the long term and also relieve the symptoms prior to the period, such as stomach pains, mood swings or migraines. Of course, some studies like one from the University of the Philippines say that taking too much turmeric can prevent ovulation , just as other oral contraceptives do.
3. Improves breathing problems
Turmeric has been used for centuries to treat bronchitis, since curcumin has a great anti-bronchial and anti-inflammatory action . Its use is perfect for the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and is also advised in patients suffering from asthma or problems associated with breathing, such as nasal congestion, certain allergies or sinusitis.
4. Anti-tumor properties
The rhizome of the turmeric plant contains about 10 anticancer components , most notably curcumin and beta-carotenes. All of them have protective effects against some types of cancer such as skin, breast, colon or stomach cancer. A regular consumption of turmeric also improves the effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy and better protects the body for its resistance; And because of its anti-inflammatory properties, can help prevent the growth of tumors . And is that according to several studies, turmeric acts on pro-tumor stem cells, preventing them from generating cancer cells. Here are other foods that will help you live longer and better.
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50 foods that will extend your life © iStock
5. Relieves arthritis
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, so it can be useful for treating diseases that cause inflammation, such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome . They do not cure the disease, but they act to alleviate the symptoms and above all, the ailments , especially when other painkillers are no longer effective.
6. Increases defenses
Sick with ease? Do you often feel tired? Turmeric can be your great ally, because it strengthens the body's immune system , that is, the barriers that protect us from certain diseases, especially those caused by viruses. This spice has an excellent ability as an immunomodulator, so it is ideal to take it in times of stress , in testing stages or in winter , when we are more likely to catch colds or flu .
7. Protects the liver
Turmeric has very good effects as a protector of the liver , as it helps eliminate gallstones, has an anti-inflammatory effect and allows the drainage and emptying of the gallbladder. It is recommended to consume in cases of cirrhosis, jaundice, liver diseases or disorders in the gallbladder. Have you been through alcohol? Detoxifies your liver with turmeric!
Related: 25 Amazing Foods for a Detox Cure
25 Amazing Foods for a Detox Cure © iStock
8. Farewell to the gases
Turmeric is very good for eliminating gas and swelling of the stomach, being carminative. Its components, such as eugenol, help to expel gases from the intestine and relieve colic , and facilitate digestion by stimulating gastric juices. Therefore, turmeric is especially recommended to all those suffering from dyspepsia, slow digestion, chronic gastritis or inappetence.
9. Natural antidepressant
Traditional Chinese Medicine has used turmeric as an antidepressant measure for many years. Both turmeric extract and turmeric powder stimulate the nervous system, improving mood, reducing stress levels and causing an increase in the production of serotonin , a hormone that contributes to well-being and happiness. Therefore, this spice is very useful for treating depression and disorders related to sadness or unhappiness.
10. Take care of your heart
Did you know that turmeric is as beneficial to the heart as physical exercise? Turmeric is a wonderful natural remedy to treat and prevent heart disease because it improves endothelial function, helps lower bad cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart attacks. These effects are especially noticeable in women who have passed menopause and are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, according to a study in the American Journal of Cardiology. So if you want a strong heart, take turmeric and play some sport !
