Chances are that all of us have a jar of turmeric in our pantry.  Turmeric is such a simple addition to your health and it offers so many benefits via its active ingredient called Curcumin.

The benefits of Curcumin are almost too numerous to list.  It 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.

Here are our top 10 reasons to add Turmeric to your cooking:

1. Curcumin, supports a healthy response to circulation and congestion in the body, and inhibits free radical cells.
2. Curcumin can reduce stiffness and swelling and strengthens joints in cases of joint pain.
3. Turmeric has a cleansing effect on the intestines and a stimulant effect on the liver.
4. Considered to be a blood purifier, tumeric is used to enhance the condition and appearance of the skin both through topical and internal applications.
5. Healthy lymph system & weight control:  Turmeric supports the mucosa of the gut, thins the mucus, and supports the flow of bile.  It is because bile helps digest fat, that experts believe this improves digestion and may help control weight. 
6. Mood Support:   Curcumin has been shown to boost chemicals in the brain that support healthy mood, attentiveness, sleep, dreaming and higher learning.
7. Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and helps combat inflammatory diseases. Turmeric’s natural anti-inflammatory qualities suggests it may work as well as some anti-inflammatory medications, without the side effects
8. Curcumin also has a positive effect on cholesterol, and animal studies have shown that it may help lower cholesterol and prevent the build-up of LDL (“bad” cholesterol) in the blood vessels.
9. Fights colds and flu:  Preliminary studies show that turmeric may help reduce the severity of bacterial and viral infections.
10. Helps Indigestion:  At least one study found it treats indigestion, reducing symptoms of bloating and gas.