Curry Is one of those spices that most people believe only comes in two forms, “Hot” and “Heck no.” The truth is that there are a wide range of curries ranging from mild to make your eyes water that all have different positive effects on your health. Curry is certainly a tasty spice but it’s the blend of turmeric, dried red chilies, coriander seeds, black pepper, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, curry leaves, mustard seeds, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, peppercorns and bay leaves that complete that full range of taste for your meal. The main ingredients in curry provide a wide range of health benefits that we will talk about today.
9 Surprising Health Benefits of Curry
Reduces Inflammation
Turmeric, a major spice used in curry, has been used in India as a remedy for inflammatory conditions for centuries. Curcumin, a component in Turmeric, was studied by a University in Arizona. They found that not only does Curcumin help achy joints, it also prevents joint deterioration and inflammation due to Rheumatoid Arthritis. A study was also done on the effectiveness of ibuprofen compared to curcumin, they found that the benefits are the same when it comes to the reduction of pain.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Sweet basil is also a large component found in curry. A study was done at the Xinjiang Medical University in China about the effects of basil and hypertension. The university found that basil affects levels of proteins that constrict the blood vessels therefore causing blood to flow a lot easier. The same components were also found in Cardamom.
Insomnia
Cumin, another ingredient of curry, is a stimulant but also a relaxant at the same time. Studies have shown that Cumin Essential oil has a very sedative effect which helps relieves stress and anxiety, leading to a great nights sleep. Its also helps reduce insomnia by aiding digestion before bed which is also a major cause for insomnia. Cumin is best taken before bed for this specific sleep disorder. Please note that there are many causes for insomnia so be weary that this approach may not be the only suitable solution for you.
Anemia
Cumin is very rich in iron (more than 66 mg. in every 100 grams) which is more than 5x the requirement as a adult. Some people lack their daily iron intake and suffer from Anemic related issues like fatigue, anxiety, cognitive malfunction and digestive issues. Iron helps aid in the production of red blood cells so when an individual lacks iron, the transfer of oxygen to the bodies cells become deficient resulting in Anemia. Basically, cumin is a life saver for those who have circulation and low oxygen in their red blood cells.
Lactation
This one is for the ladies. Fenugreek (Component of curry) is a Godsend for mothers trying to increase their milk supply with a newborn. I myself have used the capsule form of fenugreek and saw results within two days. They say 3500 mg a day is the adequate amount to produce the amount of milk needed for your baby but results vary depending on size and weight. Us mothers know how hard it can be those first few weeks when you feel as if your starving your baby because your supply is low but fenugreek is certainly the answer for short or long term milk production.
Prevention of Cancer
Cumin itself has detoxifying and can be used as an alternative to Chemo treatment, it aids the secretion of detoxifying and anti-carcinogenic enzymes from the glands. Cumin has beneficial antioxidants like vitamin c and vitamin a within its chemical makeup that are known vitamins that help in the prevention of cancer. Colon cancer and Digestive related illnesses specifically benefit from the use of cumin.
Diarrhea
Coriander, another ingredient in curry, contains Borneol and Linalool which help aid in digestion, proper functioning of the liver and bonding of bowels, while also helping to reduce diarrhea. It is also helpful in curing diarrhea caused by microbial and fungal action, since components like Cineole, Borneol, Limonene, Alpha-pinene & beta-phelandrene have antibacterial effects. So skip that Pepto Bismal and take a bite out of coriander. Curry may not cause those digestive problems feared by some after all.
Anti-allergic properties
Coriander also has strong anti-histamine properties that can reduce the uncomfortable affects of seasonal allergies. Coriander oil can also be used to reduce allergic reactions to contact with plants, insects, food, and other substances that may cause allergic reactions on the skin or when consumed. When taken internally, it can ward off anaphylaxis, hives, and dangerous swelling of the throat and glands. Allergies are certainly a plague that effects us and the ones we love so its always a great idea to use preventative measures before they happen.
Put away those worries about curry because we’ve learned that not all curries are spicy but they all have amazing health benefits. From preventing diarrhea to reducing blood pressure, I think its safe to say that Americans should start incorporating this spice into meals like many Asian, Indian and Caribbean cultures have been doing for years. Curry is certainly a super spice that should never be underrated or ignored.
Thanks for reading!
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