Turmeric for swelling, and so much more.
A client told me that her chiropractor suggested she make a poultice of turmeric powder and egg white for her injured ankle. Something about the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric, and the protein getting absorbed into the injury site.
Well, I finally tried it, and I must say, it really works!
Paul Pitchford talks about turmeric in his book, Healing With Whole Foods-Oriental Traditions and Modern Nutrition:
“Turmeric, an Indian spice, has important healing properties. Curcumin, the primary ingredient which gives it its yellow color, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities and protects the liver from toxins.1 It also lowers cholesterol and inhibits the replication of HIV-1.2,3 In subjects with rheumatoid arthritis, dietary curcumin (available as a nutritional supplement) improved flexibility and reduced joint swelling.4 Turmeric is warming and bitter; it is used to improve protein digestion, reduce uterine tumors, decongest the liver, dissolve gallstones, increase ligament flexability, and reduce menstrual pain. Dosage: 1/4- to 1/2- teaspoon daily, as a spice or taken in capsules.”
1. Stoner, G.D. et al, Polyphenols as cancer chemopreventive agents, Journal of Cellular Biochemistry: 22: pp169-180; Suppl 1995
2. Finley, E.B. and Cerklewski, F.L. Influence of ascorbic acid supplementation on copper status in young adult men. Americal Journal of Clinical Nutrition 37(4): pp 553-556, 1983
3. Staff of Prevention Magazine. The Complete Book of Vitamins. Emmaus, PA:Rodale Press, 1977, p 292
4. Pauling, L. Vitamin C and The Common Cold. San Francisco: W.H. Freeman and Co., 1977
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