Bowman Chiropractic Associates - TURMERIC - Serving Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, Solon

TURMERIC

Turmeric is found in curry powder and is the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory available today. Turmeric is a rhizome which is an underground stem not a root. This spice encourages cancer cell death, inhibits tumor growth, and research is beginning to show it even enhances the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Turmeric is a natural liver detoxifier. Turmeric may prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by removing plaque buildup in the brain.

Some research shows that turmeric is most effective in humans when it's mixed with black pepper and dissolved in oil (olive or canola, preferably). The best place to buy turmeric is directly from a spice shop. When preparing turmeric fresh you may want to wear gloves because the orange can stain.

How to Use It: Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a teaspoon of olive oil and a generous pinch of ground black pepper and add to vegetables, soups, and salad dressings. If it tastes too bitter for you, add a few drops of honey or agave nectar. Turmeric can be taken in powder or pill form. It is available in pill form in most health food stores, usually in 250-500mg capsules.

Contraindications: Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. Though turmeric is often used by pregnant women, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.