Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that has been used in India for over 2500 years, and once you learn about some of the health benefits of Turmeric, you won’t be too surprised it’s been used for so long!

Benefits

• May increase metabolism and aide in fat loss or weight management

• Naturally detoxifies the liver, which helps boost liver function

• The active ingredient in Turmeric is curcumin. A study in 2009 showed that the combination of curcumin and vitamin D helped the immune system to clear the brain of amyloid beta, which is a substance that forms the brain plaque associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

• Natural Antiseptic and Antibacterial agent.

• A study done in 1992 has showed that Turmeric may be able to help reduce cholesterol level and fight atherosclerosis (which is when the artery wall thickens).

• Natural pain killer

• May help prevent Melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer.

• Natural anti-inflammatory that works just as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs on the market – with less or no the side effects. Because of this, it can be used as a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

• Early studies show promise that Turmeric can help slow the progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Intake

Dried – You can find Turmeric in a dried powder form to use in a variety of recipes. I typically find this spice used in Indian dishes, but you can be creative and use this however you want! Test it out, and have some fun!

If you prefer, you can usually find Turmeric in a pill at your local health food store. Just follow the suggestions on the bottle for use.

Precautions

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor first (by the way – I am pretty sure every spice and herb says this!).

Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction.

Keep updated on the latest & greatest health articles by joining the Skinny Twinkie community!

Image Credit: FotoosVanRobin on Flickr®

Tags: Alzheimer's disease, Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, Antiseptic, cholesterol, culinary, curcumin, immune system, liver, melanoma, metabolism, Multiple Sclerosis, pain killer, spice, Turmeric, Vitamin D, Weight Loss

Oregano

Not only is Oregano a wonderful herb used to spice up a bland recipe, but it also has many wonderful health benefits you may not know about.

Benefits

•Strong antibacterial properties

•Contains antioxidant vitamins, which may play a role with anti-aging and cancer prevention.

•Contain Carvacrol and Thymol, which have been found to aid digestion, calm upset stomachs,  and  inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

•Contains Fiber.

•When fresh (not dried), Oregano contains Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Iron, Manganese, Calcium, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

•Helps maintain respiratory health.

•Can help treat skin infections and itchy skin.

Uses

You can use Oregano fresh or dried in recipes or as an oil topically. Oregano fresh is less flavorful than dried oregano, but both still have their health benefits.

Precautions

•Oregano oil can reduce the body’s ability to absorb iron. If you are already iron deficient or pregnant, you should limit your consumption of Oregano oil. The volatile oil can be harmful for your unborn child if you are pregnant.

•Children who are less than two years of age and those with very sensitive skin should not use the Oregano oil topically.

•Bottom line:  Yes, Oregano is good for you but too much of a good thing, can be bad.

Keep updated on the latest & greatest health articles by joining the Skinny Twinkie community!

Tags: aid digestion, antibacterial, antioxidant, bacteria, calm upset stomach, carvacrol, Food, fungi, Healthy, herb, itchy skin, oil, Oregano, oregano oil, Recipe, respiratory, skin infections, thymol, virus, vitamins