Turmeric is a wonderfully healing spice. It not only adds color and heat to food, but it has powerful antioxidant and protective properties, which appear to work just like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In addition, this amazing spice is one of a small number of super nutrients which has the demonstrated ability to dramatically lower the risk of many chronic diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's disease, and to calm inflammation, making it useful for easing auto-immune conditions such as arthritis and allergies. All of this and one huge advantage: there are no side effects.

Turmeric is a vivid orange-colored root that is a member of the ginger family. It is a key ingredient in curry powder and is used extensively in Asian cooking.

curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric that is responsible for its unique healing properties. This phytochemical has been well researched for its cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric also contains important vitamins and minerals such as iron, manganese, potassium, vitamin B6 and Vitamin C.

Some of its many health benefits include:

• Provides a boost to the immune system
• Maintains a healthy digestive system
• Supports healthy bones, joints, and the overall skeletal system
• Promotes healthy blood and liver functions

Curcumin and Cancer

Curcumin has been shown to be a powerful tool in the fight against cancer. It helps to restore immune system function which begins to weaken in many people as a result of decades of poor diet and environmental factors.

One study found that curcumin increased the production of proteins which are needed for immune cell proliferation, while reducing the development of proteins which destroy immune cells.

Other research has found that curcumin dramatically reduced tumor size and tumor occurrence in skin, breast, colon and prostate cancers. It has been found to suppress blood vessel growth to tumors, effectively starving them.

Add turmeric to Your Diet

Turmeric is one spice that should be a regular part of day-to-day eating, providing substantial amounts of highly protective and immune-boosting antioxidants and the potentially cancer-preventative effects of one of its natural constituents, curcumin.