TURN TO TURMERIC

Thought turmeric only adds colour to your food? Wrong! This wonder spice is a great antidote for various ailments. Rich in potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium, it also has large quantities of iron, sodium, zinc, manganese and selenium. Need we say more more? A pinch of turmeric goes a long way...

• Turmeric powder, when taken every morning on an empty stomach, prevents blockage in arteries. A glass of hot milk with turmeric powder manages the cholesterol level in blood and reduces the risk of coronary artery disease.
• Turmeric cleanses the liver, purifies blood and also aids in digestion.
• Rich in anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric has a powerful anti-oxidant action that combats viral infection and arthritis.
• Turmeric has anti-cancer properties. It reduces the growth of cancer cells and the formation of tumors.
• To lower your sugar level, take 10–20 ml of turmeric juice every morning. To prepare the juice, soak some turmeric powder in water overnight. Stir before you consume it.
• Turmeric is a boon for skin diseases. Apply it as a paste to affected areas of skin. It helps you get rid of dark spots, pimples and eczema.
• To get rid of menstrual cramps, take turmeric extract twice a day for two weeks prior to expected date of menstruation. An antispasmodic, it rids you of cramps. —
Expert: Hakim Mohammad Tariq, Unani medicine /TOI

KITCHEN CURE

FENNEL SEEDS
Your kitchen is like a pharmacy. It is stacked with ingredients that can help counter ailments. We tell you how this spice more than just enhances the flavour of your meals...

• Fennel facilitates digestion and keeps bad breath away. It also acts as an antacid and appetiser.

• Consuming powdered fennel seeds also helps you get rid of constipation.

• Fennel seeds cure respiratory disorders such as congestion and bronchitis.

• Consuming fennel eases and regulates menstruation by regulating hormonal action in the body.

• Fennel increases the amount and frequency of urination, thereby removing toxic substances from the body.

• Rich in vitamin C, fennel ups your immunity levels