All the amazing benefits of turmeric for pregnant and breastfeeding moms

Known as the ‘Queen of Spices’, turmeric has a number of powerful medicinal benefits. The golden, pungent spice has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, antidepressant, anti-ageing and anti-carcinogenic properties. But is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding moms?

Scientifically known as Curcuma Ionga, turmeric root has been used in India as a medicinal component in Ayurveda, a medical and health system that has been around for about 5 000 years. More recently, scientific studies have been done on curcumin, the main bioactive ingredient in Tumeric.

According to tumericforhealth.com, oral turmeric supplements are not considered to be safe during pregnancy, as it could stimulate the uterus, which could increase the risk of miscarriage.

However, University of Maryland Medical Center states that turmeric in low doses as a spice is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women to consume, and has a number of health benefits. Do not use this spice if you are prone to bleeding disorders, or are allergic. Speak to your doctor or caregiver if you are unsure.

Turmeric acts as an immune booster, as it contains anti-bacterial and antiviral properties.

Benefits in pregnancy

 A dash of turmeric in your food, or in a glass of milk can:

• Ease joint pain and inflammation
• Help prevent constipation and maintains healthy levels of bacteria in the gut
• Help improve immunity
• Help detox the liver and purify the blood
• Help maintain healthy blood sugar and lipid levels

Benefits for breastfeeding

A dash of turmeric in your food, or in a glass of milk can:

1. Act as an immune booster, as it contains anti-bacterial and antiviral properties.
2. Help reduce the risk of mastitis, as it helps reduce inflammation.
3. Help beat the blues as it works as an anti-depressant. Turmeric improves brain function, improves memory and dopamine levels.
4. Help promote digestion as it helps in the production of bile and keeps gas and bloating in check.
5. Have a natural painkilling effect, so helps to heal your body from the inside out.
6. Be used as a galactogogue. Turmeric is widely used in India to boost the production of breastmilk. While this has not been scientifically proven, it is believed to help due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
7. Help improve your cholesterol levels, as curcumin improves the lining of your blood vessels, and helps prevent heart disease.
8. Help boost blood circulation and aid in general good health.

Turmeric is widely used in India to boost the production of breastmilk

Don’t want to eat it? Try these home pregnancy beauty remedies instead:

1. Mix turmeric and curd into a paste and apply over your stretch marks. Leave for 15 minutes and then wash off.
2. Blend cucumber, add lime juice and turmeric powder to make a paste. Apply to any areas with hyper-pigmentation. Wash off after 20 minutes. Turmeric is believed to prevent melanin production and helps lighten the skin tone.
3. A paste of turmeric and water works well on acne-prone skin due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
4. Drinking a dash of turmeric in milk with a drizzle of honey (every few days or so), helps cleanse impurities in your system and gives a clear complexion.