7 Healthy Ways to Use Turmeric

Turmeric could be among the most underrated nutritional supplements on the planet. Although a widely used ingredient in curries and rice dishes in many Asian countries, turmeric is relatively underused in American cuisine.

This colorful spice is derived from a root plant in the same family as ginger and contains curcumin, a powerful anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory which recent research suggests may prevent the growth of cancer cells.

Many believe the only way to supplement turmeric is with costly nutraceutical pills from a health food store however the health benefits of this raw spice can come in a variety of forms and applications.

Did you know you can also use turmeric topically to heal?

Here are just 7 applications for the health benefits of turmeric that are sure to surprise:

1. Dental Hygiene

Despite its intense pigment, turmeric is not a very powerful dye and actually contains abrasive properties which can effectively remove plaque buildup and whiten teeth. More than just a superficial remedy for teeth, turmeric has been shown to reduce the inflammation which causes gingivitis and sub sequentially gum disease.

2. Dandruff Shampoo

Turmeric has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and because dandruff is caused by the build up of bacteria on the scalp, adding turmeric to your daily shower regiment can effectively reduce and eliminate itchy, red, and flaky skin on your head. Try mixing raw turmeric powder with jojoba oil or coconut oil for an extra rich moisturizing mask.

3. Stomach Problems

Turmeric powder mixed with a fatty liquid like milk or coconut milk can calm irritation in the stomach and help digest difficult foods to avoid inflammation and pain. Turmeric has also shown to help alleviate diarrhea and even flush the body of harmful intestinal worms. Adding just a teaspoon of turmeric to a cup of water could really improve chronic stomach issues.

4. Cuts and Burns

Did you know the common aspirin pill relieves pain by reducing inflammation? Using the same logic, turmeric can also reduce the pain of topical injuries like cuts or burns on the skin when applied directly to wounds.

A paste like mixture of turmeric and ginger powder has been shown effective in the healing process of serious burns and can also stop the bleeding of a fresh cut. This paste can also clean the wound and reduce the chance of serious infection.

5. Arthritis

As a natural anti-inflammatory turmeric has been shown to prevent inflammation in the joints and muscles surrounding our bones. In a 2010 clinical trial, turmeric supplement provided long term pain reduction and improved mobility in patients with knee OA.

6. Asthma

Stiff and inflamed airways and lungs can leave people weak and struggling for oxygen. Supplementing turmeric into daily food and drink can vastly improve and minimize the effects of asthma. By reducing the inflammation and swelling in the lungs and chest, turmeric can help clear airways and reduce the chance of serious asthma attacks.

7. Boost Immune Function

Turmeric is packed with curcumin which gives this root its intense yellow coloring as well as promotes cell health by improving the membrane behaviour. With powerful anti-oxidants, turmeric helps protect DNA from cell damage and free radicals, allowing immune system cells to thrive and keep energized.