Kitchen spice as diabetes medicine

[Guest guest]

Those who do not know ayurveda, they get exposed to it when they

marry in Indian villages. Instead of modern sprays of fragrant

chemicals, it is a custom to apply turmeric paste to the body of

bride and bridegroom a day before marriage!

 

It is one of the most used herb in ayurveda. From simple antiseptic

against cuts, burns and bruises to an anti-oxidant used in cancer and

arthritis. Turmeric is in the news once again Its importance in

controlling diabetes is now scientifically tested by Scientists of

the US-based Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC) who conducted

a research. they found that turmeric-treated mice were less prone

towards developing Type 2 diabetes.

 

3000 years after Indian acharyas used turmeric for Prameha of men,

western scientists find that turmeric is useful for mice too! Anyway,

that is scinece mindset. The scientists led by Drew Tortoriello, an

endocrinologist at the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center, observed reduced

inflammation in fat tissue and liver of the turmeric-fed obese mice.

Tortoriello claimed that curcumin, an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant

ingredient found in Turmeric can significantly reduce insulin

resistance and prevent Type-2 diabetes.

 

Cucurmin reduces inflammation by reducing histamine levels. Curcumin

protects the liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal blood

clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damage. IN

sharp contrast with 90% allopathic drugs which damage liver or kidney

tissues at least to some extent.

 

Turmeric finds its place in almost all ayurvedic preparations related

to liver and skin disorders. Its use in arthritis and cancer

medicines was discussed in posts 2015, 2073, 3512. From tooth ache

(#3883) to Swellings (#3542), Turmeric is useful herb. It finds its

place in beauty treatments too(#2927 4705, 6924). In cough and cold

(#5608) of children, it is a useful home remedy available in every

kitchen. When author posted its use for birth control(#7971), many

arguments on lack of evidence were raised. Turmeric is anti microbial

and anti-fungal. It finds its use in anti-parasite medications. In

sufficient quantity with warming honey it acts as anti-sperms also.

 

However, it can also aid fertility(#4246, 8049, 8503), when used

along with amalaki. That is ayurveda, the science of modulating the

herbal properties by compatible and synergic mixtures. Turmeric with

ginger is a cancer medicine, but it can cure a simple migraine

appearing before menstruation too, as reported in archives. Amongst

all the uses of turmeric, its anti-cancer and anti-diabetes use

appears most widespread. Look at the names of this herbs and we can

appreciate the qualities.

 

Haridra - enhancer of body complexion.

Kanchani - looks like gold or makes skin golden?

Nisha - imparts beauty by enhancing complexion which is as beautiful

as a full moon night. Gowri - yellow in colour. Krimighni - works as

an antibacterial and antihelmenthic. Yoshit priya - used in

gynecological disorders. In Marathi and Hindi, turmeric is known as

haldi. Gujarati name is Haldar.

 

Turmeric purifies blood and prevents it from clotting. It is

extensively used to protect the liver from endo as well as exo-toxins

and microbial action. Turmeric boosts the secretion of bile and

promotes its flow. The toxic damage of alcohol on liver can be offset

by using turmeric to some extent. Since it activates liver, Increased

purity of blood nourishes the skin and gives it a healthy natural

glow and radiance. South indian women (now only in villages) apply

turmeric+moong bean dhal paste (with a little sesame oil added) to

face daily. This paste reduces burning/itching if applied on

psoriasis patches.

 

Take half a teaspoon of turmeric with warm water to detoxify and

rejuvenate the liver. If you can get fresh aloe vera pulp, reduce the

turmeric to just 2-3 pinches and take it empty stomach with a little

saindhav salt to achieve the same benefit. Most asthma, bronchitis

and cough medicine use turmeric in formulations. Its use in home

remedy for children cough was detailed in post# 5608.

 

The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make

us feel young. It reduces inflammation in joints, protects the heart,

reduces cholesterol and keeps us very healthy.

 

The turmeric boosts blood circulation. Its use in swellings,

bleeding/nonbleeding wounds is well known. While turmeric prevents

clotting of the blood, it aids the healing of the wound by stopping

blood flow quickly. Is this not paradoxial? Turmeric tends to

harmonize and regularize menstrual cycle, reduces PMS symptoms and

slightly increases the flow. It is a useful herb for women suffering

from PCOS. Postpartum, it boosts milk secretion for baby. In India,

babies are bathed after applying turmeric+butter paste.

 

Turmeric is safe, but use it under supervision if suffering from

pitta driven health problems.

 

There are many more uses for Turmeric, which also include obesity

and mood disorders. Author will post those some other time.