The Miracle Herb

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric (Curcumin Longa) is a yellow spice and is part of the ginger family. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in South East Asia, China and India for cooking and as a medicine for all kind of inflammations in the human body. Turmeric is still currently used for cooking, however, scientists have recently revealed its true potential. Curcumin is the key ingredient responsible for the therapeutic properties of Turmeric. 

Many of us who are new to the Turmeric supplement, get confused with the term Curcuminoids and Curcumin. It is occasionally wrongly concluded that if Curcuminoids are the ones responsible for most of Turmeric’s benefit to our health then why we need Turmeric.

Curcuminoids are a family of active compounds found within Turmeric.

Turmeric is made of several curcuminoids and curcumin is a small potent and the most important Curcuminoid of Turmeric. Curcumin is the key ingredient responsible for the therapeutic properties of Turmeric. 

The curcuminoids found in Turmeric include Curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin and dimethoxycurcumin. Curcumin is the primary curcuminoid that has been most researched and written about in clinical studies and articles. Curcumin is not only the most studied curcuminoid, it is also the most abundant curcuminoid found in Turmeric.

Most of us have heard a lot about Turmeric and we continue to read articles about Turmeric in health publications and its awesomeness. However, some of us may not be so sure how to fit this amazing herb into our daily routine.

Benefits of Turmeric 

Curcumin the active compound in Turmeric has been widely researched by scientists and health care professionals for its disease fighting potential and health benefits.

Turmeric can boost your immune system

Curcumin is the most researched curcuminoid found in Turmeric. Its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and antimicrobial properties make it a health promoting powerhouse. For better absorption in the blood stream, curcumin should always be taken with Bioperine (Black Pepper extract) If swallowing a capsule is not your cup of tea, you can try making this yummy smoothie which is ideal with your breakfast or anytime of the day.

Carrot Turmeric Smoothie  

½ cup baby Carrots

1 ripe Banana

1 cup fresh or frozen pineapple

½ tbsp. fresh peeled ginger

Contents of 2-3 PlantOrigin Turmeric Curcumin capsules (opened up)

1 tbsp. lemon juice

1 cup unsweetened Almond milk

Add all ingredients to a high speed blender and blend until smooth, add ice or enjoy at room temperature.

Turmeric can fight free radicals

Regular use of Turmeric has shown to increase antioxidant capacity and help fight free radical damage. Getting rid of free radicals can give a tremendous boost to your immune system, brain function and cancer prevention. Regular use of Turmeric can amp up the body’s natural anti-oxidant capacity and give a boost to the body’s defence system. The antioxidants found in Turmeric can also benefit our appearance and protect the skin from free radical damage from environmental pollutants.

Turmeric eases joint pain and Arthritis   

Several studies and research done by scientists have shown very promising results in the ability of Turmeric to ease joint and Arthritis pain. The anti-inflammatory properties of Turmeric are excellent for fighting all kinds of inflammation and pain management associated with Arthritis. Turmeric is also an excellent remedy for sore muscles especially in athletes.

Here I would also recommend my favourite anti-inflammatory smoothie.

Open up 2-3 PlantOrigin Turmeric curcumin capsules and blend wild Blue Berries, roasted or steamed Beets (both are rich in anti-oxidants). Enjoy after a workout or any time of the day.

Turmeric can help treat and prevent cancer

Both Turmeric and curcumin have been studied widely for the treatment and prevention of cancerous cells. Several studies have been conducted on Turmeric’s role in preventing cancer with many promising findings.

Here’s a cancer fighting plant base dish for you to enjoy.

Toss chickpeas with ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, garlic and a dash of black pepper and olive oil. Roast at 350 degrees for about 15 to 20 minutes until crispy. Open up 2 – 3 capsules of PlantOrigin Turmeric Curcumin and sprinkle. Garnish with cilantro Enjoy!  

Turmeric protects your heart

Scientific studies have concluded that Turmeric and Curcumin protect your heart in numerous ways. Turmeric and curcumin reduce inflammation and free radical damage. Both these herbs have also shown to improve the heart’s Endothelium function. Endothelium is a thin membrane that lines the inside of the heart and blood vessels. These cells form an interface between circulating blood into the lumen and the rest of the vessel wall. Endothelial cells also release substances that control vascular relaxation and contraction as well as enzymes that control blood clotting and immune function.   

A healthy lifestyle including exercise training, regular intake of anti-oxidants and an anti-inflammatory herb like Turmeric and curcumin have beneficial effects on endothelial function and can reduce the risk of heart disease. Along with Turmeric and Curcumin a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will also benefit the endothelial function.

Turmeric for a healthy gut

Even though most of us associate Turmeric with spicy food and curry, Turmeric can treat inflammatory bowel conditions like Colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.

Turmeric can boost your mood  

Curcumin’s impact on “Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor”, also known as BDNF, has shown to have a potential use in the treatment of depression. The BDNF gene provides instructions for making a protein found in the brain and spinal cord called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This protein promotes the survival of neurons or nerve cells by playing a role in the growth, maturation and maintenance of these cells.  Regular use of Turmeric Curcumin can reverse detrimental brain changes that occur during depression. Several studies have shown that Turmeric can boost the levels of mood regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

Turmeric can stave off neurodegenerative disease  

Because curcumin crosses the blood-brain barrier, several studies have shown that our brain can benefit from Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant benefits and help with conditions like Alzheimer’s. Regular use of Turmeric has shown to protect brain function as we age.   

Turmeric improves long-term cognitive function

As discussed earlier in this article, regular use of Turmeric curcumin has proven to boost brain health by increasing healthy levels of a hormone called BDNF. Therefore, it plays a key role in the improvement of cognitive function.

Turmeric is a powerful weapon against all types of inflammation.

Inflammation in the human body is the root cause of several health disorders like metabolic syndrome, heart disease and even cancer. Inflammation in the human body has been linked to cognitive decline. Turmeric prevents the production of inflammatory genes. Turmeric’s extremely powerful anti-inflammatory properties are a powerful weapon and provide tremendous benefits.

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Organic Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Lemonade.

Get ready for summer with this Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric and Lemonade Brew.

 

Summer is almost here and most of you must be wanting to shake off the winter blues and get ready for an awesome summer. With lots of outdoor activities and healthy food.

This Turmeric Lemonade drink will help you rejuvenate and get absolutely ready for an active and action packed summer. However, before I list down the recipe ingredients and directions, I would like to write about the health benefits of all its ingredients.

The Three main ingredients in this brew are Turmeric, Lemon and Honey.

 

Health benefits of Turmeric Curcumin

It is a well-known fact and scientists agree that turmeric curcumin has been revolutionizing the health industry. Though this ancient spice has been used widely for thousands of years, researchers are only beginning to discover how vital it is to our overall health and well being

Recent studies show that turmeric curcumin can help promote healthy joints, keep our hearts and cardiovascular strength in top shape, and maintain our cognitive functioning. Scientists are also suggesting that when Turmeric Curcumin is taken as a supplement, it can help keep our immune system balanced and working properly.

Turmeric curcumin has been used in a wide variety of ways, all over the world and in almost every culture. First originating as a dye, and then repurposed as a medicinal component, turmeric curcumin has been a trusted and respected health-supporting supplement for over 4,000 years and counting.

Turmeric is also known to support and defend joint, bone, and physical wellness. When used as a concentrated extract, Turmeric Curcumin contains antioxidant properties that help the body fight against free radicals, while possessing a far-reaching capacity to enhance full-body health.

 

Turmeric curcumin has been known to promote:  

 

  • Cognitive ability
  • Enhance mood
  • improve whole-body mobility and flexibility,
  • Benefit cardiovascular health.
  • Supportsthe immune system
  • Stabilize blood sugar
  • Assist digestive functions

 

The list goes on and Turmeric Curcumin can do so much more to support overall health and well being.

 

What is the difference between plain ground turmeric and it’s root and a Turmeric supplement with Curcumin? Which one should be consumed for maximum health benefits?   

 

Plain ground turmeric is not a good option if you want your supplement to offer relief from a specific health condition like joint pains etc.– it is simply not effective enough.

 

Why is it that consuming plain Turmeric powder and root do not provide the same health benefits as taking a concentrated Curcumin supplement?  

 

Most of the healing properties of turmeric come from its active ingredient called curcumin. A typical Turmeric root will only have between 2% and 5% of curcumin. These are obviously very low percentages. That is why consuming plain turmeric powder and root are not the best choice and do not provide the same health benefits as taking it in a concentrated form.

 

Health benefits of Lemon

Lemon is well known for its healing properties since generations. According to scientists Lemons help to strengthen your immune system, cleanse your stomach, and is considered a blood purifier. However, there are many more benefits of Lemon.

Lemons which are also referred to by their Latin name Citrus x Limon are produced on a small evergreen tree which is widely grown in Asia. The Lemon tree was introduced to Europe sometime around 1 A.D., but was not widely cultivated there until the 15th century. It was Christopher Columbus who introduced lemon seeds to the Americas during his several voyages of discovery. Lemons are mainly produced commercially in China and Mexico, as well as the South American countries of Brazil and Argentina.

Lemons are well known for their Vitamin C content. With 53 grams of Vitamin C, one lemon will provide with more than 60 percent of the daily recommended allowance for this nutrient. Lemons also contain a range of other vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B6, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Folate, Niacin, Thiamin, Riboflavin, and pantothenic, Acid, Copper, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc, Phosphorous and Protein.   

 

There are many other health benefits of lemon some which are:

  • constipation
  • dental problems,
  • internal bleeding
  • rheumatism,
  • burns
  • obesity
  • respiratory disorders
  • treatment of throat infections
  • cholera
  • High blood pressure

 

Lemon juice will also benefits your hair and skin, reduce the risk of strokes and help with lowering body temperature

As a refreshing drink lemonade helps you to stay calm and cool.

The acid in lemon juice will enhance the bioavailability of the curcuminoids in the turmeric– so this recipe is engineered for success! Those who want to optimise turmeric absorption can also add a tiny dash of black pepper, which, according to scientists and health gurus enhances curcumin’s bio availability by 1,000 times, due to a heat property inherent to black pepper called Piperine.

Health benefits of honey, there are many, many more than listed below.   

  • Helps prevent cancer and heart disease
  • Reduces ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders
  • Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal
  • Increases athletic performance
  • Reduces cough and throat irritation
  • Balances the 5 elements
  • Helps regulate blood sugar
  • Heals wounds and burns

If you haven’t been taking full advantage of the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey, it’s time to start doing so because honey is an amazing healing agent for all sorts of illnesses. Honey is the way to go not just to replace sugar, but to add nutrition and wellness to your life. 

A lot of effort goes into making honey as it’s not an easy process. To make one pound of honey, it takes approximately 60,000 bees travelling to possibly 2 million flowers (around 55,000 miles) to extract enough nectar. So go ahead and add organic raw honey to your diet and enjoy its amazing health benefits.

 

 Turmeric and Lemonade Brew recipe

Ingredients: 

 

  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup fresh organic lemon juice (or more to taste-about 2-3 lemons)
  • 1-2 teaspoons organic turmeric powder or break open a Turmeric Curcumin capsule and add the powder to your drink.
  • 1/2 teaspoonorganic raw honey
  • Tiny pinch of freshly ground organic black pepper acording to scientists this will increases benefits of turmeric
  • 5 or 6 ice cubes

Directions:

 

Combine all ingredients in a high speed ice crush blender and blitz for 60 seconds or until ice is completely blended in.

Let it breathe for about 30 seconds before pouring. Pour into cups to serve. If you prefer you can add more ice.

Enjoy and Consume immediately.

 

“Vegetarian food leaves a deep impression on our nature. If the whole world adopts vegetarianism it can change the destiny of humankind”

~ Albert Einstein