Turmeric: Unleashing the Healing Power of the Golden Spice

Often termed ‘the golden spice’, turmeric is a commonly spotted spice in every Indian kitchen and is more than just a mere culinary delight. For several years, this spice has been cherished not only for its distinct flavour but also for its medicinal properties.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a perennial plant belonging to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. Native to the Indian subcontinent, specifically the region encompassing India and Southeast Asia, turmeric has been an integral part of traditional medicine and cuisine for over 4,000 years. It has a rich history deeply rooted in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine.

Turmeric is immensely significant in Ayurveda. Known as "Haridra" in Sanskrit, turmeric is a sacred herb associated with purity and auspiciousness. You can refer to Ayurvedic texts to know about the different health benefits of turmeric, some of which include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Turmeric is believed to balance the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and promote overall well-being.

This blog enumerates the ways in which turmeric can be used to harness most of its medicinal properties.

Let’s start by discussing:

Turmeric: Traditional Uses

• Culinary Delight: Turmeric's warm, earthy flavour and vibrant yellow hue make it a prized ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cuisines. It adds depth and character to curries, stews, rice dishes, and even beverages like the famous golden milk.

• Natural Dye: The bright yellow pigment of turmeric has been used for centuries as a natural dye for fabrics, cosmetics, and even religious ceremonies.

• Traditional Medicine: Turmeric is renowned for its medicinal properties in traditional systems of medicine across various cultures. It has been used to alleviate digestive disorders, soothe joint pain, boost immunity, and promote overall vitality.

Turmeric: Medicinal Properties

• Anti-inflammatory Properties: There’s an active compound present in turmeric known as ‘curcumin’ that possesses anti-inflammatory properties; helping fight chronic inflammation which is a common underlying factor in several diseases. Incorporating turmeric into your diet will help reduce inflammation and other related health conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

• Antioxidant: Turmeric is a rich source of antioxidants that look for harmful free radicals and protect human cells from oxidative stress. Consuming turmeric regularly can contribute to a healthy ageing process, enhance skin health, and strengthen the immune system.

• Digestive Aid: Since turmeric stimulates bile production in the human body, the process of digestion and the breakdown of dietary fats gets promoted. It reduces the symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas. Adding a pinch of turmeric to your meals or drinking turmeric-infused tea can promote digestive wellness.

• Wound Healing: Turmeric offers exceptional antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that make it the perfect remedy for treating minor cuts, burns, and wounds. Make a paste of turmeric and honey and apply it on your wounds to accelerate the healing process.

• Mental Well-being: Modern-day researchers suggest a possibility of curcumin having a positive impact on brain health. Turmeric reduces symptoms of depression, enhances cognitive function, and supports overall mental well-being.

How to Make the Most of Turmeric’s Medicinal Value?

Even though turmeric is safe for consumption, you need to be cautious in case you have an underlying health condition and are under medication. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating turmeric into your routine diet.

Here are some of the ways to make the most of turmeric’s medicinal value:

• Optimise Absorption: Although curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has low bioavailability on its own, pairing turmeric with black pepper can significantly enhance its absorption. Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that improves curcumin absorption in the body. Also, combining turmeric with a source of fat, like coconut oil or olive oil, can also enhance its absorption.

• Turmeric Paste: To make the most of turmeric, you can create a simple paste by combining turmeric powder with water or oil. This paste can be added to various dishes, and smoothies, or used as a topical application for skin-related issues.

• Golden Milk: Golden milk, a traditional Ayurvedic beverage, is a mixture of turmeric, milk (or a dairy-free alternative), and other warming spices like cinnamon and ginger. It is a soothing and nourishing elixir that can be enjoyed before bedtime for a restful sleep or any time during the day for its immune-boosting properties.

• Turmeric Tea: Infusing turmeric into hot water to create a refreshing tea is another way to enjoy its health benefits. You can add a squeeze of lemon and a touch of honey for additional flavour and health benefits.

• Turmeric Supplements: If you prefer a more concentrated dose of curcumin, turmeric supplements are available in various forms such as capsules, extracts, or powders. However, it's crucial to choose high-quality supplements from reputable sources.

Wrapping Up,

Know the 10 Usages of Turmeric Powder

Turmeric as we have discussed has a remarkable history and offers exceptional medicinal properties.

If you are looking to buy turmeric powder online, check out Surya Masale’s Turmeric/Haldi Powder. Our turmeric powder is made from high-grade varieties of turmeric undergoing the unique mechanical process of cleaning, grading, and packaging hygienically, ensuring unmatchable quality.

We source our turmeric from Telangana, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu; and the curcumin in our turmeric powder is kept consistent, maintaining its vibrant colour. Therefore, to buy pasupu online, filter your search as per the weight you require and shop from Surya Masale today!