You have most likely eaten Curcumin and may not have even realized it. Curcumin is contained within Turmeric (much like vitamin C is in an orange). Turmeric is an herb most commonly seen in Indian cuisine such as curry.

Besides being delicious, the Curcumin in Turmeric has vast medicinal properties. It is packed with anti-oxidants and it has been proven to fight free radicals, rejuvenate cells, cleanse the liver, protect the heart, it is used as an anti-inflammatory and supports the brain.

And if that weren’t enough to make you run to your spice rack, Turmeric boosts levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin (mood elevating chemicals within our body). Turmeric helps with focus, cognition and memory. Regulates metabolism of fat, helps brighten skin and due to it’s anti-inflammatory properties, it can help reduce joint pain.

Turmeric is rich in vitamins and minerals and can help fight infections with it’s anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

This spice is wonderful when used in cooking with oil because it is fat soluble. This means that you need to fat as a carrier to absorb and integrate the Curcumin for use. Conversely, this is also why the capsule version (Turmeric or Curcumin) isn’t necessarily absorbed into your system.
Surprising ways Turmeric can enhance your life:

• Whiter teeth
  Make your own toothpaste from turmeric powder. Mix equal amounts of Turmeric and coconut oil into a paste and brush as you normally would.
• Help for a sprained ankle (or any joint)
  Make a paste with one part salt and two parts turmeri, mix with enough water to make it spreadable. Slather on the affected joint and wrap in an old cloth that you don’t mind staining. Use once a day by leaving on for 20 minutes to an hour. (Note: this WILL temporarily stain skin.)
• Reduce Swelling
  Ingesting turmeric can help reduce swelling. Taking turmeric amplifies the effect of bromelain (an anti-inflammatory derived from pineapple enzymes). Take 250 to 500 milligrams (mg) each of turmeric and bromelain, three times a day between meals.
• Help for swimmer’s ear
  Use warmed garlic oil and turmeric to help push the water out of ears after swimming.
• Calm a stomach ache
  500 mg of turmeric four times daily to treat an upset stomach.
• Ease the ache of Arthritis
• Curb cancer
  Curcumin slows the growth and spreading of cancer. (Researchers have reported that in lab studies, curcumin can kill cancer cells and also slows the growth of the surviving cells.)
• Slow Alzheimer’s
  Studies show that Curcumin cleanses Alzheimer's-associated brain plaque.
• Liver detox
• Rev up metabolism
• Natural antiseptic
  Make into a paste for cuts and burns.
• Drink turmeric longevity tea twice a day to lengthen your life span:
  Boil four cups of water, add one teaspoon of ground turmeric, let steep for 10 minutes, strain, and add honey and/or ginger to taste.
• Natural tie-dye
  Turmeric stains fabric … so have some fun with tie-dye. Add 3 Tbls of turmeric to boiling water.
  Or use to dye Easter eggs….
• And of course, spice up food!

Both delicious and vibrant, turmeric can add color and flavor to your favorite recipes. Turmeric is a main ingredient in curry, which can by bought premixed or mix up your own.
Sprinkle on avocado, salads or cook with cauliflower. You can even use turmeric to make a cake! Use your imagination and the internet for fun, inspired recipes using turmeric.

Note: Turmeric is strong. Consult a doctor to see if adding turmeric to your diet is right for you.

For more Health Tips, visit www.amfamilyspine.com
You are always welcome to schedule a consultation with Dr. Peter Clark.
Call  704-792-2700 or visit our office in Concord, NC