Turmeric, also known as Curcuma longa, is a very common herb. Often referred to as the “Queen of Spices”, the main characteristics of this herb are pepper-like aroma, sharp taste and golden color. People across the globe use this herb in their cooking. At the same time turmeric is also used in the treatment of many health problems.

Turmeric contains a wide range of antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. At the same time turmeric is also loaded with many healthy nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, dietary fiber, niacin, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, and Zinc. Due to all these factors, turmeric is often used in the treatment of wide variety of health problems.

Here are top 10 health benefits of Turmeric.

2. Relieves Arthritis
The anti-inflammatory properties present in turmeric help a lot in treating both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. At the same time the anti-oxidant property present in turmeric destroys the free radicals present in the body which are responsible for damaging body cells. It has been found that those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis when consume turmeric on regular basis can get much relief from the moderate to mild joint pains as well as joint inflammation.

 3. Controls Diabetes
Turmeric also helps to moderate the insulin level and thus it can be used in the treatment of diabetes. At the same time turmeric helps to reduce insulin resistance, which may prevent the onset of Type-2 Diabetes. It also improves glucose control and increases the effect of the medications used to treat diabetes.

4. Reduces Cholesterol Level
Research works have proved that when turmeric is used simply as a food seasoning it can reduce serum cholesterol levels. It is a known fact that high cholesterol level is not a good thing as it can lead to various other health problems. When the cholesterol level is maintained in the body, it prevents many cardiovascular diseases.

 5. Immune Booster
Turmeric contains a substance known as lipopolysaccharide which helps to stimulate and increase the activity of the immune system. At the same time the anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal agents present in turmeric help to make the immune system strong. When the immune system is strong there is less chance of suffering from colds, flu and coughs. At the onset of symptoms of colds, flu and coughs, you must mix one teaspoon of Turmeric powder into a glass of warm milk and have it once daily. Within a few days you will feel better.

6. Heals Wound
Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent and hence it can also be used as a disinfectant. Whenever you suffer from wounds and regular cuts and burns, just sprinkle the turmeric powder on the affected area in order to fasten up the healing process. Turmeric also helps to repair damaged skin. At the same time turmeric helps in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

7. Fat loss
It has also been found that turmeric powder can also help a lot in maintaining and reducing body fat. There is a component present in turmeric that helps to increase the flow of bile, an important component in the breakdown of dietary fat and thus help in controlling weight.

8. Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease
Brain inflation is suspected to be one of the leading causes of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. As turmeric removes plaque build-up in the brain and improves the flow of oxygen in the brain and keeps the brain functioning better, it also prevents and slows down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

9. Improves Digestion
There are many key components in turmeric that stimulates the gallbladder to produce bile, which in a way improves digestion and reduces symptoms of bloating and gas. Also turmeric helps to treat most forms of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis. However it is important to bear in mind that people suffering from any kind of gallbladder diseases should not take turmeric as a dietary supplement as it may worsen the condition. It is best to consume turmeric in raw form when suffering from any kind of digestion problem.

10. Prevents Liver Disease
Turmeric is a kind of natural liver detoxifier. The liver detoxifies the blood through the production of enzymes and turmeric increases the production of these vital enzymes. These vital enzymes break down and reduce the toxins present in the body. At the same time turmeric is believed to invigorate and improve movement of blood and stimulate menstruation.