Turmeric is very hard to miss in India, and is taking over the globe – the powerful root is an ancient superfood which is finally getting the popularity it deserves. In Sanskrit alone Turmeric has at least 53 different names, all describing a different characteristic or benefit of this extremely complex Golden Spice. Two of my favourite Sanskrit names for it are “vishagni”, killer of poison, and “hridayavilasini”, giving delight to the heart.
The main health benefits of turmeric can be credited to curcumin, the main component of turmeric, which is known to be one of nature’s best anti-inflammatory substances. Not only can curcumin provide relief for many disorders and skin issues, but it is highly effective as a means of preventing disease and infection.
Enumerating Turmeric’s numerous benefits can easily take your breath away! Without going into too many scientific details, we can say this: Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory, it boosts skin health, whitens teeth, increases the antioxidant capacity of the body, improves brain functions and lowers risks of brain and heart disease. It is also said to help prevent (and perhaps even treat in some cases) cancer, Alzheimer, arthritis, depression, and age-related chronic diseases. So how do we get all those great health benefits?
We have collected some simple ways to include turmeric in your daily diet. Remember that to get the most benefit out of turmeric, it is best taken with a little bit of black pepper! The piperine in black pepper will help the gut absorb the healthy curcumin.
Directly from the Root
Incorporating turmeric root into your foods is straightforward and easy. You can store the root in your freezer and grate it into many of your existing dishes. We recommend adding a little to an omelette, sprinkling it into your tea, or adding turmeric to soups. If you prefer salads, it goes very well in a dressing with tahini and lemon. Besides being healthy, it also gives a warm and comforting taste to your food. If you are not – like us – living in India already, check out the amazing Indian cuisine, as it often incorporates turmeric in its dahl, sambar, and curries. Don’t forget to combine it with black pepper!
Turmeric Supplements
Is the taste of raw and powdered turmeric too much for you? There are vegetarian capsules from Aurospirul containing 400mg of turmeric powder, along with a little pepper for better absorption. They can be taken daily for reducing inflammation throughout the body.
Turmeric Smoothie
For a shot of energy and well-being in the morning, make yourself a smoothie with the following:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of coconut water (full of good electrolytes)
- juice from 1 lemon (rich in vitamin C)
- 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger root or ginger powder
- ½ teaspoon of turmeric
- 1-2 teaspoons of honey (a healthy replacement for sugar)
- ¼ teaspoon of unrefined sea salt (full of useful minerals)
- a pinch of black pepper
Simply add to the blender, and in a few minutes, wake up in a delicious and healthy way with this natural booster!
Golden Milk
This magical potion has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is a combination of turmeric, ginger and pepper which provides a fast relief from inflammation as well as bloating, and leaves one feeling centred and calm.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of almond or nut milk
- 1 tsp curcumin
- 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
- a pinch of black pepper
- honey or maple syrup to taste
Combine all ingredients together, and heat it up if you prefer. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup to taste.
Jamu
This traditional Indonesian herbal tonic is known for its benefits to inner and outer health. It is a simple recipe which includes turmeric and ginger root, honey and sometimes tamarind. It can be made in advance and stored throughout the day.
Ingredients
- ½ cup washed turmeric root, roughly chopped
- 1-inch piece of ginger root, roughly chopped
- 4 cups filtered water
- 2 tbsp raw honey
- juice of 1 lime
In a blender, combine the turmeric, ginger, and ½ cup of water. Mix on high speed until the contents resemble a fine puree. Pour the puree into a pot and add the remaining water and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to continue cooking at a gentle simmer for 20 minutes. Turn off heat and add lemon. Using a strainer or a cloth (the turmeric will stain the cloth!), strain the mixture into a container. As this will get you more than one serving, it is best to keep it in the refrigerator for future use. Enjoy warm or cold!
Are you a fan of turmeric? Do you have any favourite recipes? Please let us know in the comments!
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