TURMERIC, the main ingredient found in curry, is a spice that we usually use for seasoning. I use it in almost everything to add flavour, colour and a wealth of health benefits.

As a high antioxidant spice, turmeric has proven to help protect the body and prevent disease, more effectively than conventional drug-based treatments, and without the side effects, which include ulcers, intestinal bleeding and the decrease of white blood cells. This makes turmeric an excellent, safe alternative to some prescription medication. Research have been done on this miracle spice that has even been linked to inhibiting the spread of HIV in laboratory tests. We are indeed blessed to have it locally and here are 10 reasons to use it:

1. Curcumin is the active phytochemical in turmeric, which gives it its rich, orange/yellow colour and has antioxidant properties that prevent the formation of and neutralise existing free radicals.

2. Turmeric is a natural liver detoxifier and has been used for thousands of years in traditional herbal medicine to treat liver and digestive disorders. It helps to clear LDL (bad cholesterol) from the liver and enhances liver function. According to research at the Medical University Graz in Austria, curcumin has been shown to delay liver damage that can eventually lead to cirrhosis.

3. Turmeric lowers cholesterol levels and improves blood vessel health. Curcumin literally stops the oxidation of cholesterol, thereby protecting against the formation of plaque in the arteries.

4. Turmeric can help to spike metabolism, aid in weight management and help to reduce blood sugar levels.

5. Turmeric aids circulation.

6. Turmeric has incredible anti-cancer properties and has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumours. It stops precancerous changes within DNA and interferes with enzymes necessary for cancer progression.

7. Turmeric is a powerful, natural anti-inflammatory without the side effects of many conventional anti-inflammatory drugs. It is good for all arthritic conditions because of this, and can help to decrease muscle soreness after an intense workout.

8. Turmeric is a natural antibiotic, antiseptic and antibacterial agent that helps to treat wounds, cuts and burns, while also helping to speed up wound healing and damaged skin.

9. Turmeric has long been used as a treatment for depression in Chinese medicine.

10. Studies done on rodents at the University of Texas showed that curcumin inhibits the growth of skin cancer, melanoma and also slows the spread of breast cancer into the lungs.

Bena Nakawuki is an internationally trained and certified raw food teacher, wellness coach and editor. She is currently the only certified member of the International Association of Raw Food Coaches and Teachers in Jamaica. She is the owner of The Lotus Line and may be contacted at TheLotusLine@gmail.com, www.facebook.com — The Lotus Line of Natural Health Products and Services, and twitter.com/TheLotusLine.