Originally posted August 27, 2012.
If you are like me, your family’s health is a big part of your overall personal security reading. High on my list of health research subjects is inflammation. There is no doubt that some of the earliest signs of cancer and diabetes show up in our mouths. And these signs can be present long before we realize anything is wrong. There appears to be a solid link between inflammation in the mouth and inflammation in the body.
There is growing evidence that there is a direct link between inflammation in the gums, an increase in C-reactive protein, and heart disease. The medical profession is clear in its findings that oral bacteria are found in the plaques that can clog arteries. Cutting off inflammation at the pass is almost certainly a worthy challenge for us all. In my readings, the spice turmeric pops up over and over as offering anti-inflammatory power.
In researching powerful natural cures, one of the first places I turn to is Jonny Bowden, Ph.D. ‘s The Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth. It is a magnificent research effort. You will not find a more reader friendly or beautifully presented reference source. Thumbing to the index (the first place I look in any book) for inflammation, turmeric quickly pops up. The family of compounds thought to be responsible for turmeric’s medicinal effects are the curcuminoids, which give turmeric its bright yellow color and are believed responsible for turmeric’s anti-inflammation properties. As Jonny notes, curcumin, in one study, was found to be virtually as effective as the anti-inflammatory medication phenylbutazone. There certainly appears ample evidence to consider turmeric as an anti-inflammation fighter.
My next step was to turn to New Chapter, Inc. of Brattleboro, Vermont, to check on what this company had to offer. New Chapter boldly labels the #1-selling herbal in the U.S. as its product Zyflamend. I have no idea if Zynlamend really sells as well as New Chapter claims, but given my family’s monthly tab for all of its organic, whole food vitamins and herbs, I would not be surprised. Zyflamend combines turmeric with rosemary, ginger, holy basil and green tea to create a whole body inflammation response.
I know that with just a little independent research on your own, inflammation will quickly surface as a subject of deep concern for you and your family. And along the way, you are most likely to find yourself researching the potential benefits of turmeric.
