Turmeric: An Ancient Remedy for Natural Pain Relief

Turmeric, a popular spice commonly used in Indian cuisines, offers patients a way to treat pain naturally. Turmeric contains numerous beneficial compounds with strong biological effects on the human body, but one of the most notable chemicals is known as Curcumin.

Curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory that has been shown to reduce pain as well as medication like aspirin, making it an effective osteoarthritis treatment. In fact, studies have confirmed turmeric to be as effective as numerous other pharmaceutical drugs.

One of the main selling points for turmeric is that it is essentially a food and therefore is incredibly safe with minimal to no side-effects, unlike other pain medicine. Studies have consistently shown turmeric reduces pain and inflammation levels when compared to a placebo.

Improving the Bioavailability of Curcumin

The main downside of curcumin is that it has poor bioavailability when it is consumed orally. Research has shown that most curcumin is lost after digestion. Because of this, supplement manufacturers have produced what is known as “turmeric extracts” which essentially concentrates and standardizes the curcumin found in turmeric.

This can work well and tests have shown improved absorption rates from these extracts. However, they are costly and long-term use could pose a financial burden to patients as most insurance plans will not cover natural remedies.

Fortunately, turmeric paste is a great alternative to the more expensive turmeric pills. Research has shown increased curcumin absorption when turmeric is consumed with one or more of the following compounds and methods:

1) Fat

The beneficial compounds in turmeric are fat-soluble. Therefore, it is important to consume fat alongside whole turmeric root.

2) Black pepper

Piperine, a chemical in black pepper, inhibits the metabolism of certain drug compounds. One study found a 2000% increased absorption rate of curcumin when it was paired with a very small amount of black pepper.

3) Heated

Lightly heating the turmeric concentrates and activates it beneficial compounds, allowing for significantly improved absorption rates.

4) Water

Turmeric also contains compounds that are only water-soluble. One study found that gently boiling turmeric improved its absorption 12 fold.

One of the best ways to consume turmeric is to combine all four methods in a recipe of what is known as turmeric paste.

Turmeric Paste: A Potent Healing Concoction

Turmeric paste is a delicious treat that’ll allow you to enjoy turmeric as a food while still maximizing its therapeutic potential. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make and lasts a long time in the fridge.

Golden Paste Ingredients

• 1/2 Cup of Organic Turmeric Powder
• 1 Cup of Spring Water
• 1/3^rd Cup of Fat (Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Olive Oil, etc.)
• 2 Teaspoons of Organic Black Pepper

Instructions

1. Add turmeric and water into a pot and bring to a gently boil, taking care not to heat it too hot as to prevent damaging beneficial compounds.
2. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. At the end of simmering, add in the black pepper and fat.
4. Cool and refrigerate.

Turmeric paste is incredibly versatile and can be taken throughout the day by the spoonful or as a healthy dip with your favorite meal.

Turmeric, when combined with other therapeutic approaches such as PRP injections, can offer a safe and effective way to manage your pain levels and regain control of your life.