The sages and ancient scholars of India placed great importance on health, considering it fundamental for individuals aspiring to achieve the highest levels of success throughout their lifetimes, as illness poses a significant barrier to such accomplishments. Ayurveda, a holistic medical system centered on maintaining optimal health through a diet and lifestyle customized to an individual’s body type (PRAKRUTI), occupies a crucial position in this context. A thorough examination reveals that Ayurveda and its holistic principles have been intricately integrated into the cultural heritage of India for centuries. A prominent example of this integration is found in the Indian kitchen, which utilizes an array of spices as essential components in its culinary practices. Notably, turmeric stands out as a particularly esteemed ingredient, often revered not only as the golden spice of Indian cuisine but also highly valued from time immemorial because of its medicinal, cosmetic, cultural, and ritualistic uses. HARIDRA is the term coined in Sanskrit for turmeric, meaning to spread a deep yellow dye or color. The use of turmeric is well documented extensively in the ancient literatures of the Veda and Ayurveda(It has almost 40+ synonyms in Sanskrit!!!). This month, our blog will explore the details pertaining to this remarkable spice.
Know All About the Golden Spice…..
Ayurveda describes the rhizome of turmeric as having numerous medicinal properties. It tastes bitter and pungent, and comes with the ability to produce heat and dryness in the body when consumed, as it possesses what is termed as hot potency; once it undergoes digestion, the flavor evolves further and turns pungent. As a result of these properties, when consumed, though turmeric primarily pacifies the doshas-kapha and vata; it is considered as balancing the TRIDOSHA. Ayurveda further states that for optimal benefits, the daily dosage of turmeric powder is recommended to be between 2 grams to 4 grams. If you are opting for fresh juice, it is advisable to use around 10 ml to 20 ml, while those who prefer to enjoy the soothing effects of turmeric tea should take approximately 50 ml to 100 ml. This versatility in consumption methods allows individuals to integrate turmeric into their daily routines, contributing to overall health and wellness.
Turmeric has the botanical name Curcuma longa Linn. belonging to the family of Zingiberaceae. Interestingly, ginger also belongs to the same family(two powerful rhizomes!). Curcumin, which is a type of curcuminoid present in turmeric, is responsible for the multiple health benefits of the turmeric rhizome.
Points to Note:
Turmeric tolerates heat very well, so sipping a cup of turmeric tea aids health.
If you would like to balance your VATA DOSHA, mix 2 grams of turmeric powder with half a teaspoon of organic ghee and eat it once a day.
A hot cup of milk with 1 gram of organic turmeric powder, in the afternoons and evenings, keeps the doshas in balance during hot summers; in winters and when it is raining outside, 1 gram of turmeric powder with the powder of one pepper pod and honey (to make a paste) keeps your doshas in balance.
If you are a PITTA person always take turmeric with a cup of milk.
Therapeutic Benefits……. Straight From the Ancient Texts of Ayurveda
Vaghbhatacharya says, of all the herbs available, HARIDRA is the most beneficial in PRAMEHA (diabetes and related urinary disorders).
To treat diabetes, mix the powder of turmeric with the freshly extracted juice of amla (Indian gooseberry) and consume every day.
Turmeric effectively treats poison: The book Chikitsakalika says that, when turmeric is consumed with cow’s urine, it acts as an antidote for all kinds of poisons.
It’s the ultimate antipruritic-antiallergic!: A multiherbal formulation which has HARIDRA as its main ingredient (HARIDRAKHANDAM) is widely used by Ayurveda vaidyas of India to relieve itching, as well as in allergic rhinitis and nasal congestion.
Inhaling the smoke produced from burning dried rhizomes coated with ghee or oil is an established method for alleviating nasal congestion. Alternatively, it may also be utilized by inhaling the smoke generated from sprinkling one teaspoon of turmeric powder onto a hot pan to be inhaled.
A paste of turmeric with neem leaves is widely used as an external application for conditions related to the skin, such as scabies, ringworm, and chickenpox. The same is taken internally as it acts as an anti-helminthic.
Fastens the healing of wounds: Prepare a decoction by boiling turmeric with tree turmeric (berberis aristata), and use it for washing the wounds to heal quickly all sorts of wounds!
Gives the skin a glow!!: This golden spice has a very interesting name in Ayurveda as YOSHTAPRIYA, meaning liked by young women. The reason being that the application of turmeric on the face relieves facial acne and gives the skin a radiance. It also reduces facial hair growth. Chakradutta says that, it regulates activities of uterus thereby reducing the cramps during menstruations.
Turmeric is widely recognized as an extraordinary natural detoxifying agent. It plays a vital role in the formulation of powerful medicated enemas (vasthi-panchakarma) utilized in Ayurveda. Turmeric is used for purifying the metals and minerals found in potent Ayurvedic formulations, effectively eliminating harmful effects and enhancing their disease-curing properties. It stands out as an excellent liver detox agent.
Turmeric is good in the treatment of hemorrhoids! says the ancient text Charaka Samhita. The application of a paste prepared by mixing turmeric powder with the latex of Calotropis procera reduces the pain, itching, and the size of the piles mass.
Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory herb: says Bhavaprakasha Nighantu. The application of a paste of turmeric relieves pain and swelling.
Turmeric is an important ingredient used in herbal formulations mentioned in the Sushruta Samhita in the treatment management of benign and malignant tumors.
Turmeric as anti-diarrheal: A cup of buttermilk boiled with 2 pinches of turmeric powder, when consumed, acts as a natural remedy that not only helps to arrest diarrhea by acting as anti-microbial, but also promotes digestive health.
Listing Few Ayurveda Formulations Having Turmeric as Their Ingredient….
Haridra khandam/Brihat haridra khandam
Sudarshana churnam
Rajanyadi churnam
Nishakathakadi kashayam
Brhama Rasayanam
Mahapanchagavya ghritham
Kalyanaka ghritham
Lakshadi thailam
Jathyadi thailam
Awesome Home Remedies Noted in Traditional Medicine with Turmeric!
For Anemia: The consumption of one teaspoon of freshly extracted turmeric juice, combined with honey, effectively addresses the condition of anemia.
For Asthma: Consuming a cup of hot milk, boiled with one teaspoon of organic turmeric powder, serves as an effective remedy for asthma.
Burns: The application of a paste prepared from one teaspoon of turmeric powder mixed with one teaspoon of fresh aloe vera gel is effective in healing burns without leaving residual scarring.
Conjunctivitis: Prepare a mixture by boiling and straining one tablespoon of freshly crushed turmeric rhizome in one-third cup of water. Allow the tea to cool, and then administer two drops into each eye up to three times daily.
Dental Problems: To address dental issues, it is advisable to prepare a paste by combining one teaspoon of turmeric powder with half a teaspoon of salt and a few drops of mustard oil. This herbal paste should be utilized for brushing the teeth and massaging the gums twice daily.
Diabetes: Traditional healers in India recommend the consumption of 1/2 teaspoon to one teaspoon of turmeric powder three times daily as a potential treatment for diabetes.
Diarrhea: Drinking half a teaspoon of turmeric powder dissolved in one cup of water three times a day help regulate the increased frequency of bowel evacuation.
Pain: A compress can be created by applying a paste made from one teaspoon of turmeric powder and two teaspoons of ginger powder mixed with water onto a cotton cloth. When this compress is securely tied over the affected area, it can significantly alleviate pain. Concurrently, it is advisable to consume warm milk mixed with one teaspoon of turmeric powder before retiring for the night.
For ear and nasal problems: In the case of chronic otorrhea, it is advisable to apply a mixture of turmeric dust and alum in a ratio of 1:20 to effectively address the issue, as recommended by a traditional healer.
Additionally, applying a thin layer of a paste prepared by combining a pinch of turmeric powder with organic ghee to the mucous lining of the nose can help mitigate sneezing and prevent dust-related allergies. This treatment also aids in stopping nasal bleeding and reinstating the normal sense of smell.
The Multifaceted Benefits of Turmeric: Insights from Modern Science
Fights against inflammation: Curcumin, the principal curcuminoid found in turmeric, possesses the potential to mitigate inflammation by intervening in various inflammatory processes. Inflammation occurs when the immune system becomes activated to combat pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or harmful chemicals.
A powerful antioxidant: Oxidative stress is defined as a condition characterized by an excess of free radicals in the body relative to antioxidants. Free radicals are detrimental molecules capable of inflicting damage upon DNA and vital organs. Prolonged oxidative stress can accelerate the aging process and potentially heighten the risk of severe health issues. Both water-soluble and fat-soluble extracts of turmeric and curcumin possess the ability to attenuate the activity of free radicals while enhancing the efficacy of other antioxidants, comparable to vitamins C and E.
Anti-cancer and anti-tumor activity: Available research indicates that turmeric can play a significant role in cancer treatment. According to various studies, curcumin may aid in cancer prevention and furthermore support the apoptosis of malignant cells, restrict the proliferation of cancerous cells, and inhibit the metastasis of cancer to adjacent organs. Research also suggests that curcumin possesses the capability to prevent colorectal, prostate, oral, breast, and blood cancers. The anticarcinogenic properties of curcumin in turmeric can be attributed to its direct antioxidant and free-radical scavenging abilities, as well as its potential to indirectly elevate glutathione levels, thereby facilitating hepatic detoxification.
Turmeric against Type 2 Diabetes: Turmeric may influence insulin secretion by the pancreas. The active principle, curcumin found in the rhizome of the turmeric plant, has the potential to rectify insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and islet apoptosis and necrosis. Furthermore, it contributes to the enhancement of metabolic processes.
Turmeric to alleviate symptoms of arthritis: Arthritis is a prevalent condition characterized by inflammation in one or more joints. As an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound, curcumin, which is the primary active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to alleviate the symptoms associated with both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant improvements in arthritic symptoms, including stiffness, pain during walking, and joint inflammation. Furthermore, many patients report not only a decrease in pain levels but also an enhancement in their overall quality of life, allowing them to engage more fully in daily activities and enjoy better mobility. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of turmeric may even help delay the progression of the disease, making it an important addition to anti-arthritic dietary practices.
Turmeric to lower the risk of cardiovascular events: Numerous studies and research indicate that curcumin may contribute to the enhancement of cardiovascular health by facilitating the function of the endothelium (the lining of blood vessels), thus diminishing the risk of heart diseases. Furthermore, as previously discussed, curcumin possesses the capacity to mitigate inflammation and oxidative damage, both of which are significant risk factors for heart disease. Pharmacological trials investigating the cardiovascular protective properties of turmeric have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Turmeric is recognized as a potent natural antibacterial and antifungal agent: Clinical trials have demonstrated that turmeric rhizomes exhibit antibacterial properties attributed to the presence of curcuminoids and essential oils. Turmeric effectively inhibits the proliferation of various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Additionally, it demonstrates significant efficacy against Helicobacter pylori. Clinical trials have also identified its effectiveness against fungi responsible for skin infections, particularly tinea.
Turmeric boosts the nervous system: The consumption of turmeric has been associated with enhancements in brain health. Research conducted on animal models indicates that curcumin may elevate the levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a protein integral to the growth and maintenance of neural cells within the brain. Insufficient levels of the BDNF protein correlate with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and depression. Furthermore, several studies propose that curcumin possesses the capability to eliminate amyloid plaques, which are recognized as one of the contributing factors to the development of AD, within the brain.
Turmeric is good to heal the wounds: Tissue repair and wound healing are complex processes that involve inflammation, granulation, and remodeling of the tissue. Curcumin, the active compound found in turmeric, has been shown to act at all stages of wound healing by enhancing granulation tissue formation, collagen deposition, tissue remodeling, and wound contraction. Studies have illustrated that curcumin can modulate various signaling pathways, leading to a more efficient repair mechanism. Moreover, its antioxidant properties help to mitigate oxidative stress in the wounded area, creating a more favorable environment for cellular regeneration. Additionally, turmeric’s potential in preventing infections further supports its role in wound care.
Now, Let Me Answer Some Key Questions That May Arise in Your Mind After Reading Until Here……..
I would be delighted to incorporate this gold into my daily culinary practices: One may prepare golden milk; enjoy a cup of turmeric tea; and add a pinch to curries, soups, salad dressings, rice dishes, smoothies, roasted vegetables, oat meal and juices. Additionally, one can combine two pinches of turmeric powder with one teaspoon of organic ghee and savor the paste.
Wet turmeric rhizome versus dried rhizome powder: which is superior? Both forms exhibit admirable properties, and there exists no difference in their beneficial qualities. The wet turmeric rhizome, often praised for its freshness and potency, contains a high concentration of essential oils and active compounds, which may enhance its therapeutic effects. In contrast, dried rhizome powder offers the advantage of longer shelf life and greater convenience for culinary and medicinal applications. When considering factors such as accessibility and intended use, both forms provide valuable contributions to health and wellness, making the choice ultimately dependent on the specific needs and preferences of the individual.
What is your perspective on the intravenous administration of curcumin? As an Ayurveda vaidya, I would like to emphasize that there is no reference or recommendation regarding curcumin or its intravenous application in the Ayurvedic texts. Ayurveda traditionally advocates the use of the whole turmeric rhizome, either as a single herb or incorporated into various herbal formulations. Our ancient scholars thoughtfully combined multiple herbs with turmeric to address ailments stemming from dosha imbalances.
Does turmeric have any downsides? In Ayurveda texts, there are no mentions of the adverse effects of turmeric when consumed in the aforementioned dosage and when used as an ingredient in herbal formulations.
Recent studies indicate that some individuals may exhibit allergic reactions to turmeric, presenting symptoms such as rashes, hives, and abdominal pain. These reactions can vary in severity from mild discomfort to more serious complications, depending on individual sensitivities. Furthermore, it has been observed that the administration of curcumin in elevated doses exceeding three grams per day for a duration beyond three months may result in mild adverse effects, including stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea, which may be exacerbated in individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions. It is generally considered safe to utilize turmeric in moderation during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it is a natural spice that can contribute beneficially to health. However, due to curcumin’s potential to slow down blood clotting, caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders, as this could lead to an increased risk of bruising or bleeding. For those scheduled to undergo surgical procedures, it is recommended to discontinue consumption of curcumin two weeks prior to surgery for this reason. Additionally, individuals with gallstones or bile duct obstructions should preferably consult a medical professional before using turmeric, more specifically curcumin to ensure that it does not exacerbate their condition, as this active principle may affect bile production and flow. Thus, while turmeric can offer numerous health benefits, it is essential to approach its use with awareness and proper guidance.
Closing Note……..
Whether one is experiencing an acute or chronic illness, discomfort and pain, minor injuries, or requiring preventive care, turmeric ought to be employed regularly by all individuals for the enhancement of health and overall well-being. This vibrant yellow spice, renowned for its active compound curcumin, has demonstrated a multitude of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. By incorporating turmeric into daily routines, individuals may potentially alleviate symptoms associated with various ailments, promote a stronger immune response, and support overall vitality. Furthermore, its versatile nature allows for incorporation into numerous culinary dishes, supplements, and teas, making it an accessible addition to anyone’s lifestyle in their pursuit of better health.
Ayurnector 
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