Turmeric root. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Turmeric has been found to be useful in the treatment of joint pain and inflammation. This is an Indian plant which is used to add flavor to traditional Asian and Indian dishes. Its health benefits are attributed to the presence of a substance known as curcumin which has medicinal properties. So, can Turmeric help prevent joint pain and inflammation?
Before we look at the health benefits of Turmeric it is important to understand its history. The Indians has used this plant for decades to treat a number of diseases including inflammation caused by arthritis. They usually use the root or the stem for medicinal purposes.
The answer to can turmeric help prevent joint pain and inflammation is yes. Joint pain and inflammation are caused by high levels of histamine as well as underproduction of cortisone in the body. Research has shown that by taking turmeric it can reduce the levels of histamine and thus get rid of joint pain. Apart from that, turmeric contains
anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce joint inflammation.
The herb is available in powder as well as capsules form in your local drug and grocery store. It should be added to food in moderate amounts to avoid over dose. Turmeric will absorb easily into the body especially once it is mixed with oil, ginger, black pepper or pineapple. Take one or two spoons per day for effective results. Popular turmeric diets include scrambled eggs, pasta, soup or adding it to salad. It is usually advisable to start with one spoon and then increase the dosage to two spoons to give the body time to get used. The pain and the inflammation should go away after a month or two.
Apart from taking turmeric with food you can apply it on the area affected also. Make a mixture of coconut oil and turmeric powder and add apply it on the area affected every time you feel pain or before going to bed. Do not add water because curcumin does not dissolve in water.
Other health benefits of turmericIts diuretic properties help to get rid of wastes and body toxinsIts anti-aging properties keep your skin smooth and suppleIt’s an antioxidant and thus can prevent cancerIt contains anti-diabetic properties which make it effective in preventing diabetesIs facilitates weight lossIt is good for prevention of sore throat because of its antiviral properties
What are the side effects of turmeric?
Being a natural ingredient, turmeric does not have side effects. However, it is always advisable to consult a doctor so he can advice you if it good to consume it. This is because the herb has been shown to cause severe implication if taken when one is pregnant or with gall stones. Another thing worth noting is that medications such as stomach acid and blood thinning medications can reduce the effectiveness of turmeric for arthritis.
Turmeric has been shown to provide relief to people with chronic joint pan. The herbal medicine contains anti-inflammatory properties which make it an effective joint pain treatment.
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