In Western Culture the month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. To honor my ancestors and all those who transitioned due to their battle against Breast Cancer. This month, I am highlighting a very common and widely used herb, Curcuma Longa, better known as Turmeric.
Turmeric is a flowering plant that is native to India and southern Asia. Turmeric is cultivated in tropical conditions that receive a substantial amount of rainfall each year. This medicinal herb has been used for centuries in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). You can also find it widely used in the culinary arts in curry, butter, and more. Although turmeric has been used for so long, medical research on its healing properties has begun in recent decades.
One of the key constituents that is responsible for its healing factors and even its color is curcumin. Curcumin is a polyphenol that is responsible for turmeric’s key actions of being anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer just to name a few of this plant's medicinal benefits. There have been recent studies that have proven that curcumin has been effective in impeding the growth of cancerous cells. These studies provide scientific support for the medicinal properties that have been known for thousands of years in traditional medicine. These studies have provided evidence that curcumin can be used as an alternative method to pharmaceutical drugs and chemotherapy. With supporting research, this information will provide those who need the extra nudge to take the first step in taking control of their health and wellness.
Curcuma Longa is most definitely an herb that is included in my herbal medicine cabinet, seasoning cabinet, and garden. I hope this information has sparked an interest in cultivating a relationship with this beautiful plant and its relatives. Also, if you have an ancestor(s) who has transitioned due to Breast Cancer take the time out with me in saying their names and elevating them during this month.
My Ancestors whom I'm elevating this month:
Clyda Lee Drew-Jones
Nettie Pearl Smith
Here's a quick and easy tea recipe I use as a go-to during the colder months to help soothe sore throats. I hope y'all enjoy this tea and make it your own, as I did.
Sooth Me Tea
1 Turmeric chopped or grated (fresh)
1 in. of ginger chopped or grated (fresh)
Half lemon sliced
Honey to taste
Peace, love, and many blessings.
-Brii of EvaLee Gems
This information is intended for entertainment and educational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice.
References
Banik, U., Parasuraman, S., Adhikary, A.K. et al. Curcumin: the spicy modulator of breast carcinogenesis. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 36, 98 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13046-017-0566-5
Hewlings SJ, Kalman DS. Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health. Foods. 2017 Oct 22;6(10):92. doi: 10.3390/foods6100092. PMID: 29065496; PMCID: PMC5664031.