Turmeric (root)- improves circulation, improves digestion, and reduces inflammation

Native to tropical South Asia, Turmeric—often misspelled as Tumeric—thrives in temperatures between 20 and 30 degree Celsius with plenty of rain.  It is also known by the name of Indian saffron.  After a process of boiling and then drying Turmeric in hot ovens, rhizomes are extracted from it, ground into a powder and used as a spice and dye. Curcumin, its active ingredient, has a peppery flavor and smells similar to mustard. Turmeric is used in many food products and can usually be found in curry powders.  

Turmeric has demonstrated ability to compliment circulation and digestion. In India, it is used as an antiseptic to treat burns and cuts and Ayurvedic doctors value Turmeric for its fluoride. The United States National Institutes of Health is conducting four clinical trials to determine if curcumin is an effective treatment for pancreatic cancer, Alzheimer's and colorectal cancer. Curcumin has been used for thousands of years as a safe anti-inflammatory and may be an effective treatment for psoriasis. Turmeric has demonstrated some ability to help slow down the spread of some cancers.

It has also been used to treat menstrual difficulties, flatulence, jaundice, bloody urine, hemorrhage, toothache, bruises, chest pain, and colic.  Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin can be helful in treating inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis, and cancer prevention.  Turmeric may also help to improve liver function, lower cholesterol, and protect the cardiovascular system.