Tarot Reading for September 2015
AND
Blog #48: The Many Benefits of Turmeric
Legacy of the Divine Tarot
KING OF CUPS:
With the changes that are possibly coming for September, it will be important
to stay calm and composed despite what may be going on around you. You will be able to help others by having a
soothing, peaceful effect on them. If friends or family seem to be agitated or
worried, use your King energy to encourage a sense of feeling centered and grounded. Use your diplomatic skills to bring more
harmony to those who are tense or anxious.
THE HIGH PRIESTESS:
Use your intuitive ability to see past the obvious, because things are rarely
what they appear to be at first glance. Allow yourself to be open to the
mystery and uncertainty of what is going on in the world, and to see the
possibilities that are unfolding right before your eyes. Your inner knowing is more important now than
ever before, so have faith in what you are feeling, and let it lead you.
Believe in your own guidance and intuition before seeking direction from others,
because you have the skill to do this if you will just trust.
THE WORLD: You are in a good space during the month, so
savor the feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction, knowing that your
actions have brought you here. This is
an important time to stay connected and to contribute to the overall good of
others and the community. You will find contentment in feeling involved and
actively pursuing your goals, seeing if you can expand them to encompass more than
yourself. Be grateful for all that you
have as you see some of your dreams come true; you are helping to create a more
beautiful, giving, and bountiful world.
Blog #48: The Many Health
Benefits of Turmeric
Retrieved from www.theheartysoul.com
Many of us are familiar with turmeric because it is a
flavorful spice used in curry and even gives the yellow color to mustards,
butters, and cheeses. We may think of it
as a spice, but it is actually the root stalk of a tropical plant that belongs
to the ginger family.
A surprising thing about turmeric is that it has a wide
array of health benefits, some of which go back to ancient times. The main substance of turmeric that is
responsible for its healing properties is curcumin.
Fresh turmeric is available at Chinese and Indian
supermarkets. A more convenient form is powder, found in ordinary grocery
stores. However, to enjoy its many health
benefits it also comes as a supplement in tablets and capsules available in
health food stores. There is even
turmeric tea for those who prefer it this way.
Why is turmeric so
healthy for us? Its main ingredient, curcumin, is an antioxidant that
has anti-inflammatory properties which form the basis for a variety of healing
purposes. The Journal of the American
Chemical Society says that turmeric has not just antioxidant characteristics
but also is antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anticarcinogenic, and
antimutagenic.
Turmeric also contains good nutrients such as protein; dietary
fiber; niacin; vitamins C, E, and K; potassium; calcium; copper; iron;
magnesium; and zinc.
So it is no wonder that turmeric has been used for thousands
of years in Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine for conditions such as
heartburn, diarrhea, stomach bloating, colds, fibromyalgia, and even
depression.
Some of the health
benefits
Much research has focused on the health benefits of turmeric
(and its important ingredient curcumin), and here is a partial list of
these. However, authors caution that
more research needs to be done, and patients should always consult their
medical professionals when considering turmeric for serious illnesses.
Ø
Turmeric may help with heartburn, upset
stomach, diarrhea, and digestive disorders. One study found that turmeric supplements
were more effective for heartburn and indigestion than a placebo. Its ability to help with upset stomachs has
been known for generations, and only recently have studies shown this to be
true. One author states that turmeric
helps the gut get rid of harmful bacteria, and people in countries who use a
lot of turmeric in their cooking have lower cases of digestive problems.
Because turmeric helps the liver function better is one reason why it helps
with digestion overall.
Ø
Turmeric may help with heart health. It helps break up artery-clogging cholesterol,
thus possibly preventing strokes and heart attacks. One study found that it could reduce the
chance of heart attacks among bypass patients.
Ø
Turmeric may delay the onset of diabetes. A 2012 study found that it delayed the onset
of type 2 diabetes due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers, as well
as its ability to reduce insulin resistance.
Ø
Turmeric may help fight cancer. One researcher found over 200 studies related
to turmeric and cancer, but notes that these were animal studies and that human
research is in the early stages. However,
one author states that current research is showing much promise in helping with
pancreatic cancer, one of the most difficult to treat.
Ø
Turmeric may protect the brain. At least 50 studies have shown positive
effects related to Alzheimer’s disease, because turmeric blocks the formation
of the substance that generates the growth of plaque in the brain.
Ø
Turmeric may help joint pain, tendonitis,
and both types of arthritis—osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The curcumin in turmeric has more than 24 anti-inflammatory compounds which
lessen this type of pain.
Ø
Turmeric may be considered a natural
antiseptic, has anti-bacterial properties, and may help with skin damage.
It has been used for centuries as a
method of cleaning wounds and destroying microbes that cause infection. Sprinkling
turmeric powder on a cut or burn may speed up the healing. It also may reduce skin redness and perhaps
even fight signs of aging.
Ø
Turmeric may strengthen the immune system. It contains a substance (lipopolysaccharide)
that enhances the immune system, in addition to its properties as an
antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agent.
Ø
Other health benefits cited at least
once in the sources given at the end of this article include:
--Turmeric may be a natural fat burner.
--It may be useful in treating depression.
--It may help to lower cholesterol.
--It may be considered a remedy for headaches.
--It may lower cortisol levels, thus reducing effects of stress (such as sleep problems) and blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
Although there is much evidence that backs up the health
benefits of turmeric, it is always best to do your own research, talk with your
medical professionals, and come to a decision that is right for you.
Sources
