Turmeric is a wonder product that has gained fame in recent times although in India, people have been using it  for over 2500 years ancient times The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin.

An overview published in Advanced Experimental Medical Biology in 2007 states that, "Curcumin has been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities and thus has a potential against various malignant diseases, diabetes, allergies, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and other chronic illnesses." U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health have this to say: "Laboratory and animal research has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties of turmeric and its constituent curcumin"

A study has shown elderly villagers in India, who eat turmeric in their daily curries, have the world's lowest rate of Alzheimer's disease. In a study at the University of California at Los Angeles Curcumin blocked plaque's accumulation in the brain . It also appeared to reduce inflammation related to Alzheimer's disease in neural tissue. 

Turmeric helps you reduce pigmentation on your face and even out your skin tone. It can be easily done at home. Mix a little turmeric with cucumber or lemon juice and apply to your face. Leave it for some time and wash off. A one-time application will be of little help and only regular use will give a soft glow to your face.

Grandmothers in India often prefer to apply a paste of turmeric to minor cuts, bruises and bumps as it reduces the swelling just as an ice pack would do, without the discomfort. Its various antiseptic properties are perfect for using it for minor cuts, wounds and abrasions and it helps in quickening the healing process.  Mix turmeric with enough water to form a paste and apply to the wound.

Did you know that turmeric is a fantastic natural way to help with a cough. Dump those nasty cough syrups and simply mix a spoonful of turmeric in almond milk and drink it down. The almond milk eases the throat and the turmeric fights infection in the throat.

Unlike aspirin or ibuprophen, turmeric's curcumin reduces inflammation naturally, without damaging the liver or kidneys. It has been found especially helpful in treating conditions like arthritis, sports injuries, irritable bowel syndrome, Chrone's disease, tendonitis and various autoimmune diseases. Some research even suggests that curcumin may also help those suffering asthma, inflammatory bowel disease and, yes, even cancer. This is why the martial arts masters eat turmeric daily.

Since all the studies have suggested turmeric has broad anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects how do we get enough of it to achieve these protective effects. I recommend trying Turmeric Tea.

Here's a recipe. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and flavorings until you find a combination that suits your taste:

• Bring four cups of water to a boil.
• Add one teaspoon of ground turmeric and reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
• Strain the tea through a fine sieve into a cup; add honey and/or lemon to taste. 

Some people like to add a teaspoon of ginger along with the turmeric. While ground versions are more convenient, it's worthwhile to experiment with freshly grated turmeric for a more vibrant flavor. These distinctive, deep-orange roots are increasingly available in American grocery and natural food stores. Enjoy