Raw turmeric can help boost your immunity; here’s how

“Turmeric is a powerful herb with over 300 nutrients including beta-carotene, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), calcium, flavonoids, fibre, iron, niacin, potassium, zinc among others. But the active compound which has caught the attention of scientists, supplement industries and food technologists is curcumin for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Absorption of curcumin from turmeric is enhanced by 2000 times by peppering, a compound present in black pepper. Somehow our ancestors seem to have cracked this knowledge as all our recipes have both turmeric and black pepper in combination,”  says Nikhil Chaudhary, nutritionist.

While it’s easily available in the market there are two ways to start your day with raw turmeric.

* Add raw turmeric and boil it with one teaspoon of ghee and have it every morning. It helps improve immunity and cure dry cough.

* One can also grind raw turmeric and one teaspoon ghee and make a cold morning drink before you start your day.

Dhivya, Senior Dietician, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore says, “Turmeric in its raw form is packed with several health benefits including immune-modulatory effects. Studies conducted on curcumin and other bioactive components in turmeric reported having beneficial effects in various disease conditions, by modulating the immune system. Raw turmeric is one of the main ingredients in several home remedies used for various health issues. Turmeric milk is an example in which grated raw turmeric is boiled with milk, and served hot. It is considered as a magic elixir to ward off the common cold and seasonal flu. Especially in children, it is associated with a reduction in Recurrent Respiratory Tract Infections. Raw turmeric concoctions/ tea taken daily over a while may help to improve immunity”.

Here are some of the benefits of having raw turmeric

* It helps facilitate smoother digestion through the tracts.

* Consumption of raw turmeric may also help treat stomach ulcers and irritation.

* It also helps in reducing inflammation in the body.

* All of these factors also lead to a reduction of skin impurities. Traditionally, it is also used in treating skin ailments.

* Kacchi Haldi, as it is also known, is also applied as an ointment to any kind of cuts or injuries.

* It purifies the blood, eliminating toxins from it.

* Raw turmeric has been known to regulate blood sugar levels too.

* Inflammation is an important part of the immune system to fight infections and is a short term process. When the inflammation becomes chronic it leads to various health problems including cancers. Turmeric has shown anti-inflammatory properties that could prevent chronic inflammation and therefore such diseases.