Turmeric, also known as turmeric, is much more than just an ordinary spice. This bright yellow powder, which is extracted from the root of the turmeric plant, is a true miracle cure. Not only does turmeric add a distinctive color and earthy flavor to many dishes, it also offers an impressive array of health benefits. Turmeric plays a central role in the cuisine of many cultures, especially Indian and South East Asian. But what makes this spice so special? Let’s dive in and find out more about the golden powder.
Origin
The turmeric plant (Curcuma longa) belongs to the ginger family and originally comes from South Asia. Today it is mainly cultivated in India, Indonesia and China. India is the largest producer and exporter of turmeric and it has been used there for over 4000 years in both cooking and traditional medicine. The plant thrives particularly well in tropical climates and requires plenty of warmth and moisture to grow. The spice originally came to Europe via the Silk Road in the Middle Ages.
Active ingredients or effect
The main active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin has proven to be extremely versatile:
- Anti-inflammatory: It helps to reduce chronic inflammation, which is often the cause of many diseases.
- Antioxidant: It fights free radicals and protects cells from damage.
- Improving brain function: Studies have shown that curcumin can promote the growth of brain cells and possibly reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. [1, 2, 3, 4]
- Supports the immune system: It strengthens the immune system and helps to ward off diseases.
In addition to curcumin, turmeric also contains essential oils that offer additional health benefits
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Sorry, there is no magic formula. You have to eat healthily and live healthily to be healthy and look healthy.
Purchasing
When buying turmeric, you should pay attention to a few things in order to get the best quality:
- Organic quality: Look for organic turmeric to ensure that it has been grown without the use of pesticides.
- Fresh: Fresh turmeric is often more aromatic and intense than dried turmeric. You can find fresh roots in well-stocked supermarkets or at the weekly market.
- Powder form: When buying turmeric powder, look for a bright yellow color and airtight packaging to ensure freshness.
Processing
Turmeric can be used in various ways:
- Fresh: Peel and grate the root to use in curries, smoothies or salads.
- Powder: The powder is ideal for seasoning dishes such as rice, vegetables, soups and stews.
- Tea: Prepare a warming turmeric tea by dissolving the powder in hot water and adding a little pepper and lemon.
A little tip: always combine turmeric with a pinch of black pepper. The piperine in pepper increases the bioavailability of curcumin by a factor of 2000!
Note
Although turmeric offers many health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation. The monograph of the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend a daily dose of up to 3 g of turmeric powder from the dried rhizome. Too much turmeric can lead to gastrointestinal problems. People with gallstones or bile duct problems should consult a doctor before taking turmeric and turmeric preparations, as it promotes the formation and secretion of bile, which can lead to biliary colic.
Interesting info
Did you know that turmeric is also used in natural cosmetics? Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it is often used in face masks and skin creams. It can help to reduce blemishes and improve the complexion. Turmeric has also traditionally been used as a dye, both for clothing and religious rituals.
Recipe idea: Golden milk
Finally, I would like to introduce you to a simple and delicious recipe: golden milk. This drink is particularly popular with vegans and health-conscious people.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of plant-based milk (e.g. almond or oat milk)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 pinch of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 small piece of fresh ginger (grated) or 1/2 teaspoon of ginger powder
Preparation:
- Heat the plant-based milk in a small saucepan, but do not let it boil.
- Add the turmeric powder, cinnamon, black pepper and grated ginger.
- Stir the mixture well and leave to simmer gently for 5-10 minutes.
- Sweeten the golden milk with maple syrup or agave syrup to taste.
- Pour the milk through a sieve into a cup and enjoy it warm.
Now it’s your turn! Try turmeric in your kitchen and discover the many possibilities of this miraculous spice. Share your experiences and favorite recipes with us in the comments. Stay healthy and enjoy life to the full!
Do you already have experience with turmeric? Share your favorite turmeric recipes and tips in the comments! If you’re curious about even more healthy eating tips, subscribe to my newsletter and stay up to date.
Disclaimer: This text is in no way a substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist and must not be used as a basis for independent diagnosis or for starting, changing or stopping treatment of illnesses. Always consult a doctor you trust if you have any health questions or complaints! Greentrinsic accepts no liability for any inconvenience or damage resulting from the use of the information presented here.
Sources:
1 Parikh, A.; et al. (2016): A Novel Formulation of Curcumin for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD): In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation, Alzheimer’s and Dementia,(https://www.researchgate.net/publication/309218359_A_NOVEL_FORMULATION_OF_CURCUMIN_FOR_ALZHEIMER’S_DISEASE_AD_IN_VITRO_AND_IN_VIVO_EVALUATION)
2 Ege, D. (2021): Action Mechanisms of Curcumin in Alzheimer’s Disease and Its Brain Targeted Delivery. Materials (Basel),(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8234049/)
3 Shrikant, M.; Kalpana, P. (2008): The effect of curcumin (turmeric) on Alzheimer’s disease: An overview, Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology,(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2781139/)
4 Chen, M.; et al. (2018): Use of curcumin in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Neural Regeneration Research,(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5950688/)
