Ayurveda the ancient medical science is based on the
principle of preventing diseases. It directs us to resist the diseases through
our food habits and life styles.
Ayurveda uses many medicinal herbs and spices in its
treatment and turmeric is one such spice with many medicinal properties. But
Ayurveda has immensely praised the medicinal qualities of turmeric which finds
its place in almost all Ayurvedic preparations related to liver and skin
disorders.
Turmeric has occupied the shelves of every Indian kitchen
for 6000 years. It is used daily in cooking. Apart from cooking it is also used
as beauty aid and as a dye.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) belongs to Zingiberacae Family
and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in the tropical regions. In
India it is grown all over but specially in Bengal, Bombay and in Tamil Nadu.
Ayurveda appreciates the medicinal qualities and color of
turmeric. This is evident through the various names of turmeric specified in
ancient texts of ayurveda. Some of these are
Haridra – Enhancer of body complexion.
Kanchani – Looks like gold.
Nisha – Beauty by enhancing complexion which is as
beautiful as full moon night.
Gowri – Yellow in color.
Krimighni – Works as a Antibacterial and antihelmenthic.
Yoshit priya – Is used in Gynecological disorders.
In Hindi Turmeric is known as Haldi.
The rhizomes or roots of this plant are used as medicine
and for other purposes. The rhizomes are boiled, dried and then powdered. This
powder is used for all purposes.
The active chemical component of turmeric is curcumin.
Curcumin is a strong antioxidant and reduces inflammation by reducing histamine
levels. Curcumin protects liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal
blood clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damages.
Turmeric is very safe. But special precautions should be
taken in persons who have gall stones, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and
obstructive jaundice.
Ayurveda explains the qualities of turmeric as light and
dry. It has pungent and bitter taste. It is widely used in skin, respiratory
and liver disorders. It purifies blood and enhances complexion.
Effects of Turmeric:
1. On Liver – Ayurveda has recommended this golden herb to purify blood
and prevent it from clotting. It is extensively used to protect liver from
toxins and microbial. Turmeric increases the secretion of bile, promotes free
flow of bile. This herb can be used to overcome toxic effects of alcohol on
liver. This reduces cholesterol and protects heart. Use of tea spoon of turmeric with warm water rejuvenates
the liver and expels toxins out of it.
2. On respiratory system – Turmeric is very effective in bronchitis, productive
cough and asthma. One spoon of turmeric boiled in milk should be consumed
with a spoon of pure ghee in conditions like bronchitis, asthma and productive
cough. This gives very good relief and expectorates excessively produced mucous
in lungs.
3. On ageing – The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young
looks and make us to feel young. It reduces inflammation in joints, protects
the heart, reduces cholesterol and keeps us very healthy.
4. On Diabetes – It is widely used in ayurvedic preparations for diabetes.
It lowers the blood sugar and increases glucose metabolism.
5. On Uterus – It initiates regular menstrual cycle and reduces
menstrual cramps.
6. On skin – Blood nourishes the skin and it is known fact that pure
blood always keeps the skin glowing and radiant. Turmeric purifies blood,
nourishes skin and gives it a healthy natural glow and radiance. A traditional face pack of India consists of gram flour,
pure turmeric powder, milk and honey. This reduces inflammation of skin and prevents many skin ailments.
7. On Stomach and Intestines – Turmeric enhances digestion, normalizes metabolism and
expels intestinal parasites.
8. On Wounds – Turmeric accelerates healing process and readily reduces
pain and inflammation. Thick Paste of turmeric applied on wounds acts as an
excellent antibiotic and anti inflammatory.
9. For Flexibility – Turmeric purifies and cleans the body. It is a
tailor made herb for yogis. It increases the flexibility of muscles, reduces
inflammation in muscles and joints and helps to perform yoga with confidence
and delight.