Turmeric – Not Just A Spice

Turmeric,  a common spice in India and an herb used extensively in Chinese Medicine is gaining popularity as the “Alzheimer’s preventing  herb”.  Dr. Oz originally promoted this ancient herb, but he never talked about the thousands years of historical medicinal use of this “spice of life”.  Chinese herb pharmacopoeia categorizes turmeric as a blood regulator.  What this means is turmeric’s most  bio-active constituents called “curcuminoids”  have been documented as blood movers.  As such, it has a wide range of benefits one being an excellent natural anti-inflammatory.  Studies show it benefits wound healing and helps speed the remodeling of skin, so it’s great for minor cuts and burns.

In regards to Alzheimer’s disease, turmeric (Curcuma Longa) along with it’s commonly substituted  Curcuma Aromatica from the same specie,  may slow the progression of this disease byTCM removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.  Turmeric, which, as with many Chinese herbs is seen in at least three different  species in the same genus, is a natural antiseptic, antibacterial and antispasmodic. Chinese Medicine has used turmeric for the treatment of depression  and for both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  It reduces cholesterol, helps liver function and stimulates bile production which aids digestion. Turmeric has also been used successfully for  inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease. Turmeric should not be used by pregnant women,  it’s blood moving qualities make it contraindicated during pregnancy.

Now that Western researchers have conducted a number of well publicized studies on turmeric which prove scientifically it’s many benefits to health. Chinese Medicine is vindicated for what it’s known for generations. Hopefully one day Eastern and Western medicine will cease to be adversaries and form a partnership based on the integration of their knowledge and their  mutual goal of improving the health and well being of people everywhere. Until then, enjoy some turmeric in your food often  to keep your cholesterol in check and  to improve your overall health.  Food should be your first medicine.

Our Corydalis Pain Relief Herb Pack contains a large amount Turmeric, in a highly concentrated form not found in most pills and capsules.  Try our blend for everyday aches and pains and for relief even after minor workouts.  Only a small amount of our concentrated granules, usually 1/2 tsp is needed daily.