Benefits of Fresh Turmeric

Have you ever wondered what makes mustard yellow? It's turmeric, a root spice that has a bitter and peppery taste. It's also one of the key ingredients in curry. It has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for centuries because of its many benefits. The following are just some of the benefits that are offered by fresh turmeric.

Antioxidant

• Curcumin is an antioxidant found in turmeric that also happens to give the spice its yellow color. It helps to fight off free radical damage that can harm cells and genetic information.

Cystic Fibrosis

• A study published in 2004 in "Science" showed that the curcumin in turmeric also helps cure cystic fibrosis. This is a genetic disorder linked to proteins, and curcumin was found to correct that disorder.

Anti-Inflammatory

• Turmeric has been used as an anti-inflammatory in Eastern medicine for many years now. The volatile oils and curcumin help to reduce inflammation in joints and blood vessels.

Cholesterol

• Turmeric is linked to the lowering of bad cholesterol. According to a study published in the "Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry," turmeric helps the liver absorb and rid the body of LDL cholesterol.

Alzheimer's

• The curcumin in turmeric is also helpful in preventing Alzheimer's disease. It does this by protecting the brain from damage caused by aging, according to a study published in the "Italian Journal of Biochemistry."