benefits. The rich yellow-coloured rhizome, or root, is the part that is used medicinally. This rhizome contains curcuminoids, which are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds. Stringent clinical and laboratory studies show that these curcuminoids demonstrate very strong anti-inflammatory activity, which confirms turmeric’s long-standing use as a herbal medicine for arthritis, rheumatism, eczema, asthma, psoriasis and a host of other inflammation-driven painful conditions. Turmeric also can stimulate bile production which supports liver and gall bladder health, plus digestive process. It’s beneficial heart health properties are attributed to its anti- inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
Turmeric plays a role in lowering cholesterol and thinning blood, potentially reducing the risk of narrowing of the arteries. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Not just a culinary staple and a must-have in your stir-fry, ginger is also rich in potent antioxidants and polyphenols. When ginger is taken internally in a high potency, standardised formula, it demonstrates circulatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects. Ginger contains phenolic compounds such as shogaols and gingerols which have been shown to be anti-inflammatory, making it particularly useful for inflammation-related pain and sports injuries; in particular, ginger acts to reduce levels of natural pain-causing compounds, called prostaglandins. Ginger essential oil may also be mixed with a small amount of a neutral oil,
such as apricot kernel oil, and used as a massage blend for painful areas; it is thought to work by quieting the nerve endings that transmit pain signals.
9
ISSUE 65 • 2022
Made with FlippingBook Learn more on our blog