Turmeric

Photo found here.

Last night at our family Thanksgiving dinner my aunt told me that turmeric is bad to consume while pregnant. I don't quite remember her reasons behind this, but I was thinking that it's an herb that I rarely consume anyway, so I had nothing to worry about. I decided to look it up anyway, and I mostly stumbled upon GOOD information about turmeric!

I found a website titled "Turmeric: The Golden Goddess", and it tells how turmeric is good for basically everything. Turmeric has helped to fight cancer, it's a powerful anti-inflammatory herb, it has a special action to purify and nourish the blood and skin, it protects the liver from toxins and pathogens, it helps the entire gastro-intestinal system by helping digestion, it helps the respiratory system, it has believed effects in treating and preventing neurological diseases, and new research suggests that turmeric may play a vital role in fighting HIV/AIDS. Wowza! And what else is turmeric good for... pregnancy!

"Turmeric also plays a role in pregnancy and birthing in India. Traditionally, it is said that taking turmeric when pregnant will ensure that the child will always have beautiful skin. (However, turmeric is a mild uterine stimulant, so there is a chance of over stimulation; it is essential to consult a healthcare practitioner before taking any herbs during pregnancy.) Turmeric taken in the last two weeks of pregnancy in warm, organic milk helps to expedite a simple birth, while increasing the health of the mother and child as well. Turmeric is also an analgesic (pain reliever) and is sometimes used in natural childbirth to decrease pain" (all previous information on turmeric taken from ayurvedacollege.com).

I also found some places on the web that say to use extreme caution with turmeric while pregnant. Basically, don't take TOO MUCH! Shall we stress it again my dear preggos...

everything in moderation!