Improve Your Yoga and Health With Turmeric

Turmeric has been used for cooking and medicinal purposes by both South Asian and Middle Eastern cultures for thousands of years. Hindus in India view turmeric as an auspicious and sacred herb, and its paste and powder are used in many religious ceremonies. Yogis have also discovered that adding turmeric to their diets can improve flexibility, support recovery, create inner peace, and boost overall health and wellness. Turmeric comes in a variety of forms, so you can easily supplement this magic golden herb in your diet.

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric is a natural orange root that belongs to the ginger family. The plant grows almost 6 feet high with yellow flowers that resemble a trumpet. It grows primarily in Central America and South Asia. Turmeric powder was once a simple household spice used mostly in Indian cooking. However, in recent years, its popularity has grown due to its wide range of health benefits and scientifically researched healing capabilities.

What is Curcumin?

Turmeric root contains curcumin—the principal active ingredient that is responsible for its healing powers. This compound is what provides the root with a bright yellow color. Curcumin is the naturally-occurring chemical compound that is used in modern scientific studies.

The benefits of turmeric and curcumin

Turmeric root appeared as an important part of Ayurvedic medicine around 500 BCE.  It has been used since then to alleviate congestion and heal wounds, bruises, and other skin conditions.

Since its early beginnings, Turmeric has shown to be one of the most effective nutritional supplements in existence. Many medical studies show it has significant benefits for the body and brain. Here are eight healing benefits you can expect to receive when adding turmeric to your daily diet:

1. Decreases inflammation. Inflammation is the major component of most diseases and illnesses, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s, arthritis, and cancer. Curcumin in turmeric can help those suffering from these conditions. Turmeric has a broad spectrum of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, specifically helping to regulate the production of inflammatory and oxidative stress hormones in the body. According to Turmeric Wiki, these anti-inflammatory properties are as effective as some pharmaceutical drugs, but without harmful side effects.
2. Stimulates circulation. Studies indicate that the curcumin compound in Turmeric protects the heart since it has potent antioxidant properties. Researchers claim that the product increases blood flow by minimizing LDL cholesterol.
3. Improves bone and joint health. Since turmeric is anti-inflammatory, it is a good pain reliever that treats joints inflammation. The product prevents osteoporosis and minimizes joint pain, which is great for yogis. Curcumin extracts are effective as ibuprofen in fighting pain and enhancing the patient’s function. Health experts claim that the product is potent in alleviating rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
4. Makes your diet more Sattvic. It is essential for people who practice yoga to consume sattvic foods, which are calming, harmonizing, light, and pure. The foods induce these qualities from within and are ideal for yogis who are looking to achieve spiritual insight. Sattvic spices not only add flavor but also medicinal action to food without making it spicy.
5. Improves digestion. Indians have revered turmeric for its capability to enkindle the digestive fire, leading to healthy digestion for better health and immunity. Experts have conducted clinical trials that prove that the product is efficient in treating gastrointestinal diseases like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Most people who practice yoga strive to rid the toxins of their bodies. Turmeric can come in handy in this process.
6. Reduces depression. Curcumin compound in Turmeric increases the levels of dopamine and serotonin. The two are feel-good brain chemicals. Health experts claim the compound can act as an antidepressant.
7. Improves cardiovascular health. Studies show that curcumin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Inflammation is a strong component of heart disease. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent addition to a heart-healthy diet.
8. Promotes weight loss. Several medical studies have shown how turmeric can boost your ability to reduce weight, BMI, and waist circumference.

How to use turmeric

You can include turmeric in your diet in various forms, from golden milk lattes to turmeric tea, turmeric capsules, and turmeric powder form. However you choose, it is advisable to consume it with black pepper. This is because black pepper contains piperine, which improves the absorption of curcumin into the bloodstream. Curcumin is soluble in fat. Therefore, you can include it in meals that contain healthy fats to maximize its effectiveness.