Spicing It Up With Turmeric

I first heard about turmeric on the Oprah show. When Dr. Oz introduced this spice to the audience, he focused on the following benefit: turmeric helps activate genes that keep our brains clear of waste.

In some cultures, turmeric is used to soothe burns, bruises, and skin conditions such as acne, diaper rash, and psoriasis. A paste made from powdered turmeric is applied directly to the skin, as often as needed.

Others use it as a dietary supplement to assist with pain and discomfort.

In her book, Everyday Indian: 100 Fast, Fresh, and Healthy Recipes, Bal Arneson claims that turmeric "fights free radicals, protects the liver against toxins, aids circulation, lowers cholesterol levels, improves blood vessel health, and has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties."

Turmeric (also known as E100, Wiki/turmeric) can be found in the following items: yellow cake mix, orange juice, Dijon mustard, biscuits, popcorn, cereal, sauces, curry, and yogurt. According to Dr. Oz, we need 17 mg of turmeric a day, about what's in a teaspoon of mustard.