In 1999 as I was leaving an interview at a restaurant, I misjudged my steps and fell on concrete on both knees. I had X-rays done at the hospital, there were no broken bones, but I did suffer swelling to my left knee and received two months of physical therapy. About a month ago I began to have pain and swelling in the left one again. I had X-rays done two weeks ago and tried something new—Turmeric.

I learned about this spice from my son Mark who watches what he eats and is a true vegetarian.

I learned that Turmeric is the yellow spice in mustard and curry and that its active ingredient is curcumin. It usually can be found on spice shelves in your grocery store. Research in curcumin has found that it is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity and that investigators are studying a potential role of curcumin against cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, psoriasis and cystic fibrosis.

Studies according to www.healthdiarieis.com have shown numerous reasons for adding turmeric to the diet. The top ten reasons are as follows:

4When combined with cauliflower, it has been shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer. It has also been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.

4May prevent melanoma and cause existing melanoma cells to die.

4Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia.

4Is a natural liver detoxifier.

4May prevent and slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

4May prevent metastases from occurring in many forms of cancer.

4It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.

4Is a natural painkiller and COX-2 inhibitor. The COX-2 enzyme is associated with pain and inflammation in the body.

4Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

4It can be taken in a supplement and speeds up wound healing and assists in remodeling of damaged skin.

Turmeric is on the FDA’s safe (GRAS) list and is considered a safe health food when recommended supplement doses are not exceeded. However, pregnant women and anyone with gallstones should avoid taking turmeric unless under a doctor’s supervision.

I use it on chicken, fish, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, deviled eggs, potato chips and in soups.

Scientist say there is little reliable evidence to support the use of turmeric for any health condition because few clinical trials have been conducted. But I do know that it has improved my knee pain about 85 percent.

For more information about turmeric go to the web site at www.whfoods.com or do a search of turmeric on Google.