Turmeric Helps – When Osteoporosis Sets In!
Generally referred to as a skeletal or metabolic bone disorder, osteoporosis is one disease that is progressively and, should we say, irrevocably, affecting people all over the world. It is primarily associated with bones that have become weak and porous.
Fragility In Bones
Such bones are devoid of their regular mass protein, and therefore, are more susceptible to fractures and injuries occurring from seemingly normal activities. When the bones are weak, even the sudden act of bending down a little or missing a tiny step may result in a fracture of some sort. It is accompanied by chronic pain in the joints, especially in the spine and lower back area. In fact, osteoporosis just happens to be one of the leading causes behind spine injuries, especially among women over the age of 50. It is a silent disease which grows gradually and often, initially without any major symptoms. The disease remains rather dormant until we actually end up suffering a fracture or a broken bone, owing to perhaps the most minor of injuries. Other discomforts include a reduced overall mobility, difficulty in sleeping etc.
Prime Cause
There are various factors which may contribute to the onset of osteoporosis, some of which include advancing age, previous injuries, low bone mineral density, deficiency of calcium and vitamin D, lack of physical activity, cigarette smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, imbalanced diet and lifestyle factors, hereditary reasons, etc. However, post-menopausal disorder is by far the most common type. Women who are nearing the stage of menopause are becoming particularly prone to this problem, whose symptoms usually tend to surface post-menopause.
Hormonal Depletion In Women
Menopause, as we know, is accompanied by hormonal disruptions and a growing lack of oestrogen in the body. This particular hormone is known to play a pivotal role in maintaining the bone mass and building muscles, almost all through our life. Oestrogen is essentially responsible for the production of osteoblasts, the cells that produce bone. However, as we age and particularly during menopause in women, the oestrogen functions tend to decrease. Apart from a reduced number of osteoblasts, the production of osteoclasts, bone cells that reabsorb the bone tissues, witnesses a surge, thus leading to a slow but steady wearing down of the bones. Therefore, as the oestrogen level drops, women tend to lose bone density. Even otherwise, it is understood that women are about four times more prone to osteoporosis than men.
Turmeric (Haridra) Aids in Osteoporosis
The good news, however, is that there are steps we can take in order to prevent osteoporosis from occurring in the first place. Turmeric is a common kitchen herb, obtained from a plant called Curcuma longa. Native mostly to the Asian region, this is one ancient therapeutic herb that has shown some promising results in the prevention as well as cure of various inflammatory conditions, and is especially beneficial in osteoporosis. Curcumin, an active compound found in turmeric, is what makes this herb so incredibly useful. Purest form of curcumin, found in raw turmeric, has immense anti-inflammatory as well as analgesic properties, which suppress the pain and swelling associated with osteoporosis.
Benefits Of Turmeric (Haridra)
• Turmeric is known to work at the cellular level in protecting and rebuilding our bones.
• It also inhibits the action of osteoclasts, and promotes the positive effects that osteoblasts have on our bones.
• It goes a long way in inhibiting the process of gradual bone resorption.
• It has some incredible bone protective properties, owing to its ability to prevent bone erosion by keeping them aptly lubricated.
• The regular usage of turmeric, therefore, actually helps in the formation of bones, and prevents them from the degenerative effects of menopause.
• By working as a botanical phytoestrogen, a plant-source of oestrogen, curcumin serves as a practical alternative to oestrogen hormone in our body.
Local Application Of Haridra Tail (Turmeric Oil)
Haridra Tail, which is the purest extract derived from raw, usually organic turmeric, is known to be most effective in curing the problems associated with osteoporosis. Both internal as well as external usage of the same is recommended. As for the local application, you could simply take some good quality turmeric extract along with lukewarm coconut or olive oil, and make a fine paste. Apply this directly onto the affected region, keeping it dressed for about one hour or so. The extract seeps straight into our skin, thus providing the quick means of cure. Gentle, regular massage on the affected areas of our body using Haridra tail, therefore, helps provide direct relief from pain and swelling. Being safe and extremely effective, this topical therapy works particularly well when practiced before hitting the bed, or right after a nice, long bath.
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About the Author:
Dr Sonica Krishan is Author and Speaker in the areas of Healthy and Joyous Living through Ayurveda, Meditation, Yoga and other Contemplative practices. She is a leading Ayurveda Professional in India. She is also Health Writer, Columnist, Editor, Ayurveda Consultant and Holistic Healing Coach. Dr Sonica is open for National as well as International Collaborations with interested people / institutions in fields of Ayurveda, Meditation and Yoga.
Dr Sonica Krishan’s Books are available at Amazon
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