If you are one of the estimated 50 million Americans that suffer from arthritis or any form of inflammation, there’s good news. There is a spice that has been around for hundreds of generations and is widely known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Many times, people take over-the-counter and prescription medication to reduce swelling or pain only to endure the negative side effects of these drugs. But with this spice that has been used for thousands of years and today, thousands of studies have been performed on it to conclude that it has infinite health benefits.
Mother Nature’s Gift
Turmeric has been used in medicinal remedies for more than 10,000 years! One of the most amazing discoveries from Mother Nature which provides us with a host of health benefits. Yellow in color and a cousin to ginger, it contains over 650 bioactive compounds. Over two dozen of these compounds help reduce and prevent inflammation.
Health philanthropist and best-selling author, Dr. Mercola, suggests that turmeric is “effective even in very small quantities.” He reports studies have shown it is effective when treating arthritis, joint pain and swelling, and improving range of motion if it is consumed regularly.
In addition to aiding your body to digest fats and improve skin’s complexion, it can also help treat:
- Acne
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Bloating
- Cancer
- Colds
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Gout
- Gum disease
- Headaches
- Heart disease
- Heartburn
- High blood pressure
- Jaundice and liver issues
- Liver disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Psoriasis
- Speeds wound healing
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- And much, much more!
According to WebMD, research has shown turmeric to reduce osteoarthritis pain. Another study showed the spice worked as well as ibuprofen! Also rheumatoid arthritis and chronic inflammation benefit from this ancient spice.
How to Easily Add It to Your Palate
Curry dishes are typically what people initially think of when turmeric is mentioned. But there are many ways in which you can add this marvelous spice to pack your meals full of flavour and a health boost.
- Rice dishes
- Chicken
- Eggs
- Lentils
- Roasted potatoes
- Salad dressing
- Smoothies
- Tea
This spice is famous for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer agents. Add some spice to your life while reducing pain and inflammation!
Here’s a delicious, savory recipe to try this week!
Chickpea Curry
Chickpea Curry
(makes 8 servings)
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
- 2 onions, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp. fresh ginger root, finely chopped
- 6 whole cloves
- 2-2” cinnamon sticks, crushed
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. ground coriander
- Salt
- 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. ground turmeric
- 2-15oz. cans garbanzo (chickpea) beans
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Directions
- Over medium heat, heat oil in large frying pan; fry onions until tender.
- Add garlic, ginger, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, salt, cayenne, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minutes over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Add garbanzo beans and their liquid. Stir until all ingredients are well blended. Cook until heated through.
- Remove from heat and add cilantro before serving. Reserve 1 tbsp. of cilantro for garnish.
Nutrition facts per serving:
135 Calories
20.5g Carbohydrates
4.5g Fat
4.6g Fiber
4.1g Protein