Turmeric (Yu Jin): A Chinese herb for Pain Relief + Energy

Ahh! The great wonder of turmeric.  I use turmeric in all my daily Indian dishes to add flavor and color. However there is more to this wonderful, powerful herbal spice. As a Chinese herb (yu jin) turmeric has a bitter taste and stimulates circulation by moving Qi and blood stasis. Traditionally it is used to relieve pain and stiffness. It improves digestion and is an important substance that treats Gallbladder, clearing obstruction and sludge. Turmeric is also a potent calming herb that is used to clear the spirit or Shen, alleviating anxiety and agitation. As an acupuncturist and herbalist I advise my patients to take turmeric as a daily supplement.

Watch Dr. Mercola's video on antioxidants and turmeric

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9l392Zxyoto]

Research has shown that turmeric possesses compounds that have a powerful anti-inflammatory benefit and is high in antioxidants as well. It has a lot of medicinal uses which help many ailments such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, bronchitis, stomach pain, and bloating.  Studies have shown turmeric to be as effective as over the counter Ibuprofen.  Research also suggests turmeric to be effective in treating irritable bowel disease, lowering cholesterol counts, possibly supporting people with early stage Alzheimer's disease, and may have an inhibiting effect on cancer cell growth. I often recommend turmeric to be taken in the powder form twice a day in water, milk or as a tea. Since the taste is bitter many clients will try it once and then not take it again. Fortunately it is available in capsule form at your local health food store. Turmeric is excellent to add to your meals along with other common kitchen spices like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper to create healthy, tasty meals that will help your digestion and strengthen your immune system! Try some today.

Recently, I had the opportunity to recommend turmeric to a patient suffering with fibromyalgia. She took 2 level teaspoons mixed with ground cinnamon and a little honey for taste twice a day in warm water for 2 months. Drinking the turmeric along with weekly acupuncture sessions, she was able to stop her pain medications with her physician’s approval.