TURMERIC, known for it’s powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties are added to my new blend of healing homemade tea. The key to turmeric’s healing power is the chemical compound curcumin. What’s it good for?

  • Chronic inflammation and Pain: its more potent than aspirin and ibuprofen and has less side effects and lasting results
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: it significantly reduces the inflammatory interleukin -6 markers, suggesting regular turmeric ingestion could prevent the onset of RA.
  • Depression: Research from the Government Medical College in India provides first clinical evidence that curcumin may be used as an effective a safe modality for treatment in patients with Major depressive disorder. In the study patients were treated by curcumin and compared against treatment with Prozac. They discovered the curcuminoid compound is not only as effective as Prozac in managing depression; it doesn’t carry all the dangerous side effects.
  • Diabetes: Turmeric is shown to lower blood glucose levels and reverse insulin resistance!
  • Cancer: recent studies show turmeric has the ability to inhibit cancer cell growth, boosts antioxidant levels and improves immune system.
  • Skin and aging: its strong anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and other skin irritations. Its antibacterial qualities make it great for blemishes, acne and improving skin texture and balance.
  • Brain health and memory: by taking turmeric, you can improve the oxygen intake of the brain, which helps with memory function.

Recommended dosage depends on age, adults are generally recommended to follow these guidelines:

  • In supplement form: 450 milligrams of curcumin capsules each day or up to 3 grams of turmeric rood daily
  • In Tea: 1-1.5 grams dried root steeped in 5 oz of water for 15 minutes 2x a day
  • Oil form: ½ tablespoon of turmeric oil 3x daily.

Info gathered from draxe.com

GINGER has some crossover health benefits but I particularly like it in the winter for its warming quality.

  • Relieves nausea
  • Improves digestion and increases absorption of food. Ideal for when you are feeling bloated or have eaten too much.
  • Reduces inflammation making it an ideal remedy for overworked muscles and joint problems.
  • Relieves congestion associated with the common cold and environmental allergies.
  • Improves blood circulation, therefore decreasing the chance of cardiovascular problems.
  • Relieves menstrual cramps. Try consuming and soaking a towel in the ginger tea and applying it to your lower abdomen.
  • Relieves stress through the calming properties making it a great nightcap.

TURMERIC AND GINGER TEA

turmericGingerTea

turmericGingerTea

Adjust amount of each based on your tastes

6 cup filtered water

2 Tbsp ginger minced (about 2 inches)

2 Tbsp turmeric minced (about 2 inches)_

1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon (or 2-3 cinnamon sticks)

½ tsp crushed red pepper or 6 peppercorns (optional)

pinch of salt

Best way to peel ginger and turmeric is use the blade of a dinner knife and scape the delicate skin.  Then mince both.  Bring water to boil then add all ingredients. Simmer 10-15 min on med low heat scraping sides regularly. Allow to cool then poor through a mesh strainer.

serve: sliced oranges, lemon juice, honey, mint.