Turmeric
Turmeric has been proven clinically to boost the immune system and strengthen its resistance to common allergies. Curcumin, the primary ingredient in this ancient spice, is commonly used in alternative medical systems, such as Ayurveda, Unani and naturopathy, to treat nasal, food and skin allergies.
How it Works
Clinical research published in the September 2008 issue of the journal "Molecular Nutrition and Food Research," found that curcumin blocks mast cells in animals from releasing histamine, thereby preventing allergic reactions. Research conducted by scientists at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas, which was published in the "Journal of Clinical Immunology," January 2007, concurred that curcumin is not only a potent immunomodulatory agent, it also increases antibody response when administered in low doses. This implies that curcumin is effective in treating allergies. According to a study published in "Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications" in 2008, curcumin protects the immune system from responding to common stimulants, such as dust and pollen.
Edible Forms
Turmeric is a fat-soluble substance. Consumed as a spice, as in a curry, it is most effective when dissolved in vegetable oil, butter, cream or milk. Turmeric is also available at health stores in capsule form, but these are not strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and could therefore contain harmful additives. The optimum adult dosage is around 10g a day.
An Old-Home Remedy From India
Fight allergies the old-fashioned way by concocting an old Indian recipe. Boil a cup of milk, and while it's simmering, add around 5g of pure turmeric (available at health stores or an Indian or Chinese grocery store), a pinch of saffron, a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of cardamom, a pinch of dry ginger powder, a pinch of nutmeg, and 2 tbsp. honey. Mix well, strain and drink right away.
Side Effects
According to researchers at the Oregon State University, curcumin has been found to increase the possibility of internal bleeding in people taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, ticlopidine (Ticlid), and warfarin (Coumadin). Turmeric should be avoided by people taking blood thinners, people with congestive heart failure and gallstones, as well as by pregnant women.
Absorption
The body's absorption of turmeric is enhanced when dissolved in oils and butter. When making curry, use canola, vegetable or olive oil to saute (on a low flame) the dry, ground spices that contain turmeric.
Tags: that curcumin, available health, available health stores, health stores, immune system, people taking, when dissolved