Pain and swelling or inflammation seem to go hand in hand and anyone who experiences these symptoms will be aware of the misery it can cause. Help may be at hand with one of nature's own painkillers.
I had never imagined hearing about these two words, turmeric and inflammation being mentioned together but apparently there is a connection in terms of it being used in the fight against infections where the chief symptoms are swelling.
It has been a plant long revered as having numerous medicinal qualities by such ancient cultures as the Indians and Chinese. They depended on it for such things as healing wounds, use as a painkiller and regarded it so highly that they even incorporated it into many of their customs and rituals.
Many recent studies have looked closer at this powerhouse plant and there's no doubt that turmeric is an effective antibacterial, antioxidant and a good anti inflammatory. These are some excellent credentials for a herb which I had always thought of as a condiment spice used in curries and other such exotic foods.
But, the single most important part of this plant as far as turmeric and inflammation is concerned is an extract called curcumin. Many are now saying that it's this that has so much potential in such fields of study as Arthritis. One such piece of research conducted at the University of Arizona reported that if turmeric extracts were given to patients prior to an Arthritic attack, then such attacks at best were avoided, and at the least, were inhibited.
Such preventative measures are just one example of where we could use this herb to good effect. I've certainly added it to my to do list, so next time I shop for supplements I'll be making sure to check that turmeric extract is included.
Peter Foremski
Author Bio
Peter Foremski is an avid researcher and consumer of nutritional supplements. He adds his findings and opinions on where to find the best quality products at his <a href=" Natural">http://www.natural-nutritional-supplement.com">Natural Nutritional Supplement site
