Health Matters: Turmeric

Eat This Spice. It Could Save Your Life!
A recent scientific exploration has revealed one of the most significant discoveries supporting the power of food as medicine. This food-based medicine is turmeric (botanically called curuma longa L.) At first, volumes of evidence exposed the anti-cancer effects of its flavonoids, specifically the phytochemical curcuminoids. As Dr. Russell Blaylock, M.D. states, “There is a multi-level anti-cancer process that occurs effecting the growth of cells from the use of this eastern delicacy. Additionally, it strengthens the immune system, lowers blood sugar and acts as a powerfulanti-inflammatory due to its potentCOX-2 enzyme inhibitor effect.” Most researchers advocate that we need between 1000 and 3000 milligrams daily of this fragrant yellow “spice.” Since it would be difficult to consume this level in the condiment form, it is generally suggested that we consume it as a supplement. It is also known to be helpful to take this supplement with oil rich cuisine such as sprouts, algaes, and/or condiment oils. Many researchers believe that turmeric’s interaction with magnesium adds to its effectiveness. Consuming foods rich in magnesium or taking a bio-available liquid magnesium supplement can multiply its benefit.

Neuroscience has studied the Indian culture for evidence of turmeric’s health benefits and has discovered that there is very little Alzheimer’s among their aging population (Indians have traditionally used turmeric in much of their food.) Since becoming aware of this connection, scientists have conducted significant studies on the effects that curcuminoids have on the brain. The University of California reported that curcumin is most effective in inhibiting the formation of the protein fragments that directly produce Alzheimer’s. All other drugs being tested for Alzheimer’s were less effective than this food. After further study, they found that the low molecular weight and polar structure of curcumin allowed it to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and bind to the beta anyloid (which form the disease causing plaque). In an earlier study, the same team found that the curcuminoids contain powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are believed to ease Alzheimer’s symptoms and arthritis.

Auyurvedic medicine, some five thousand years ago, began using this food/spice for anti-inflammatory purposes. Traditionally, there are some people who should avoid the excessive use of turmeric: pregnant women (as it can activate uterine contractions); people on anti-coagulant medications including aspirin (since curcumin naturally acts as an anti-coagulant); and people who suffer from gallstones. After delivery, or once these other health problems are resolved, turmeric can and should be utilized.

We strongly suggest that those people ?concerned with mental acuity and memory loss consume a minimum of 1000 milligrams of turmeric. If one is engulfed in memory loss problems we would suggest the use of up to 3000 milligrams daily. Other than the above-mentioned counter- indications, there are no known side effects from excessive consumption.

In our quest to bring you the latest findings on natural living, we advise anyone with a tumor, arthritis, rheumatism, or memory loss concern to add this food and its supplemental counterpart to your daily dietary routines.