What is Turmeric?
Curcuma longa or famously known as Turmeric is the “golden wonder” of Ayurveda (Ancient Indian Medicine System). It is a rhizome belonging to the ginger family. The root of the plant has the highest concentration of Curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibiotic. It has a vibrant yellow color and is sometimes also known as “Indian Saffron.” This golden spice is known for its multiple health benefits and healing properties, which makes it highly useful and valuable in cooking. Turmeric is vastly used in curries and is the most common ingredient of Indian cooking. Turmeric is also ingested in the form of capsules as a health supplement.
What is the History of Turmeric?
As old as nearly 4500 years Turmeric originally belonged to the family of ginger and has been used ever since & is said to be an essential part of Vedic culture in India. It was around 500 BCE that Turmeric emerged as a significant part of Ayurvedic medication. Since then, there has been no turning back. It is estimated that it reached China by 700 AD, East Africa by 800 AD, West Africa by 1200 AD, and Jamaica in the 18th century.
Today, Turmeric is commonly cultivated in India, Thailand, Taiwan, and other SouthEast Asia. It goes by different names in different cultures and countries. Being one of the largest producers of Turmeric, India supplies the finest quality and diverse varieties of Turmeric all around the world.
Various varieties are grown worldwide, namely Alleppey Finger, Erode Turmeric, Salem Turmeric, Raja pore turmeric, Nizamabad bulb, etc. In North India, Turmeric is commonly called “haldi,” a word derived from the Sanskrit word haridra meaning yellow sandalwood.
Who Discovered Turmeric and Where did Turmeric Originate?
In India, Turmeric first appeared as an important component of Ayurvedic medicine circa 500 BCE.
Turmeric has a long history of therapeutic use in South Asia; Some believe that according to Sanskrit medical treatises, & Ayurvedic and Unani traditions, which date back to 250 BC, recommends a turmeric ointment to ease the effects of poisoned food.
Marco Polo, the famous explorer, and writer talks about Turmeric in one of his travel accounts dating back to 1280, saying, “it is a vegetable that has all the properties of true saffron…and yet it is not really saffron.”
It is often named “Indian saffron” in many parts of the world.
The mention of Turmeric has also been seen around world history; some believe that Turmeric was found in Farmana, dating to between 2600 and 2200 BCE.
Others believe that it was found in a merchant’s tomb in Megiddo, Israel. It was also noted as a dye plant in the Assyrians Cuneiform medical texts from Ashurbanipal’s library at Nineveh from 7th century BCE.
Where is Turmeric grown?
Being one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of high-quality Turmeric, Turmeric is now widely grown in India, Thailand, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. According to a recent poll, India was the world’s biggest exporter of Turmeric in 2019, with exports totaling more than 194 million US dollars.
The Indian States like Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Assam are some of the important states cultivating Turmeric.
In a recent survey in 2018, Telangana topped the Volume of Turmeric produced across India.
Refer to the chart below for more insight:
| States (in India) | Production (1000 metric tons) |
|---|---|
| Telangana | 294.56 |
| Maharashtra | 190.09 |
| Tamil Nadu | 116 |
| Gujarat | 78.91 |
| Orissa | 54.5 |
| West Bengal | 45.5 |
What are the other names of Turmeric?
Turmeric is consumed in various counties, and culture goes by different names in different cultures; here are a few for you to know.
The Indian States like Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Assam are some of the important states cultivating Turmeric.
In a recent survey in 2018, Telangana topped the Volume of Turmeric produced across India
Refer to the chart below for more insight:
| Pharmaceutical name | Rhizoma Curcumae |
| Botanical name | Curcuma domestica Valet., Curcuma rotunda |
| Scientific name | Curcuma longa |
| Family | Zingiberaceae (ginger family) |
| English | Indian saffron |
| Hindi | Haldi, Hardi |
| Amharic | Ird |
| French | Curcuma, Safran des Indes, Terre-mérite, Souchet des Indes |
| German | Curcuma, Kurkuma, Indischer Safran, Gelbwurz |
| Spanish | Curcuma |
| Portuguese | Açafrão |
| Italian | Curcuma |
| Indonesian | Kunyit, Kunir; Daun kunyit (leaves) |
| Sinhala | Kaha |
| Vietnamese | Bột nghệ, Củ nghệ, Nghệ, Uất kim, Khương hoàng |
| Thai | Kha min chan, Khamin luang, Kha min; Wanchakmotluk (C. xanthorrhiza) |
| Punjabi | Haldi, Haldar,Halaj |
| Bengali | Halud |
| Gujarati | Haladar |
| Marathi | Halad |
| Arabian | Kumkum |
| Farsi | Zardchob |
| Telugu | Pasapu, Pasapu Kommulu |
| Tamil | Manjal |
| Kannad | Arishina |
| Malayalam | Manjal |
| Urdu | Haldi, Zard chub |
Who has a Turmeric Patent?
In the year 1995, two researchers named Soman K. Das and Harihar Kohli of the University of Mississippi Medical Centre were awarded the Patent to Turmeric. Their patent claims covered six points, including turmeric powder’s oral and topical use to heal surgical wounds and ulcers. An exclusive right was granted to them for the selling and distribution of Turmeric.
Since then, India’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) was trying to overturn the controversial Patent, forcing US Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) to reassess their decision.
The Patent was withdrawn on August 13th, after a year-long legal battle with CSIR, which argued that Turmeric, a native Indian plant, had been used for centuries by its people for wound healing and thus has the “novelty” standard required for patenting.
Ragunath Mashelkar, then director of the CSIR, stated that the case’s outcome will have far-reaching implications for the preservation of traditional knowledge bases, “not only in India but also in other Third World nations.” According to him, the case also emphasizes the significance of documenting traditional knowledge in order to offer evidence of possible knowledge bases.
Now the Patent belongs to India.
Which Turmeric is Best?
Turmeric is the wonder spice that has existed for 4500 years and continues to be one of the essential spices of the era. Turmeric’s use as a medical and culinary spice date back to ancient India. Furthermore, India is the world’s leading producer of Turmeric, producing over 500,000 tonnes per year.
There are several varieties of Turmeric that are used for various purposes.
Here are a few which you should know:
1. Lakadong: The Lakadong Turmeric is a king of Turmeric species when it comes to superiority, primarily attributing its high curcumin levels that can range from 7-12 percent. It is an incredible spice found in the pristine highlands of Lakadong village of Meghalaya, India. It is grown naturally without the use of any chemical fertilizers.
2. Kasturi Turmeric or Curcuma aromatica: Wild Turmeric or Kasturi Turmeric is known for its mesmerizing odor and is broadly used for cosmetic and skin enhancement purposes. Due to its bitter taste, Kasturi is usually avoided in cooking.
3. Alleppey: Found in the southernmost part of India, in Alleppey, Kerela. It is slightly darker in color and contains higher curcumin content than other types of Turmeric, averaging 5% and up to 6.5 percent making it of great medicinal value. It is a very effective coloring agent and contributes significantly to the flavor of the curries.
4. Black Turmeric or Curcuma caesia: It is a rare variant of the Turmeric family with black roots. This type of Turmeric is blue and is relatively more expensive than the traditional one. This Turmeric is used to make several Ayurvedic medications. Power-packed with antioxidants, this Turmeric powder is used for cancer treatments.
What does Turmeric taste like?
Frequently used as an herb and spice worldwide, its properties make it pungent but zesty. It is strong in flavor, which is a little bitter & often bland in taste. It is consumed fresh as well in dried powdered form.
How to grow Turmeric?
Typically, Turmeric is a Kharif crop. It grows well in hot and humid climates and prospers even better in light black or red soil. Usually, it takes 7-9 months for it to become ready to harvest.
Be it in your backyard or planter pot nowadays; Turmeric can be easily grown in the comfort of your home without much hassle.
Before you start planning to plant your herb, here are few tips to help you grow your own fresh organic Turmeric:
- Carefully select & plant a turmeric rhizome/turmeric root, which is a chunky root-like structure (very similar to ginger)—preferably fresh rhizomes from the local market.
- Consistently monitor and water your rhizome.
- Place your pot in the warmest section of your house.
- Firstly, plant them in smaller pots or planters, and then transfer them outside after 5-7 months before harvesting them.
Turmeric: Where to Buy Fresh?
Although turmeric powder is one of the most commonly used spices, its raw and unprocessed form is considered to be the best because the fresh form of any fruit, vegetable, or spice retains more nutrients than the processed ones, and Turmeric is no exception.
So here is a list of places you can buy fresh Turmeric:
Why should I use Turmeric?
In Ayurveda, Turmeric is considered the “to-go” spice. It is believed to balance all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Its key antioxidant, Curcumin, is beneficial and effective in various ailments, which is research-based and time-tested. It is often considered as the “holy powder” for its proven medical benefits and values.
It has been prescribed by many Ayurvedic practitioners as medicine which can be taken in many forms, be it fresh juice, turmeric tea, turmeric milk, or powder, and are often used as creams, lotions, pastes, and ointments.
What are the various ways to use Turmeric?
Turmeric Latte or “the golden milk” is a potent therapeutic drink to combat respiratory diseases. But there are so many more ways you can inculcate Turmeric in your daily routine and get the best out of it.
Check out the list below to explore more:
1. Turmeric Powder:
Take 1/4 teaspoon of Turmeric powder with milk or lukewarm water twice a day. And see it doing wonders for you!
2. Turmeric Juice:
Add 2-3 teaspoons of Turmeric juice to 1 glass with lukewarm water or milk. Be consistent with this practice and see the change happening.
3. Turmeric Tea:
Add one teaspoon of grated Turmeric or 1/4 teaspoon of Turmeric powder to a pan with 4 cups of water, then let it simmer on low flame for 10 mins. Strain it and add ½ lemon and one teaspoon of honey for sweetness.
4. Turmeric Milk/Turmeric Latte:
Take 1/4 teaspoon of Turmeric powder and add it to 1 glass of warm milk and mix well (you can use milk froth for extra Starbuck’s feels). Preferably drink it before going to bed. You can continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
5. Turmeric Essential Oil:
Take 2-5 drops of Turmeric essential oil and mix with coconut oil. Apply it evenly all over the affected area and see it doing wonders for your hair and skin.
6. Turmeric Face masks:
Turmeric can do wonders for your skin, be it reducing acne or giving you bright glowing skin. You can use Turmeric Powder with rose water, sandalwood, wheat flour, or all in one to make a face mask of your own!
How Turmeric Powder is Made?
Traditionally, the rhizomes or roots are used fresh, then boiled in water and sun-dried. They are ground into a deep orange-yellow powder commonly used as a coloring and flavoring agent in many Asian cuisines.
Though various products are available in the market, but it is very easy to make fresh organic turmeric powder at home. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1:
Wash turmeric root thoroughly (repeat if needed).
Step 2:
- Boil water in a pan and then add washed turmeric root.
- Let it simmer for 45 min on low-to-medium flame.
- Wait till froth appears on the surface of the pan.
Step 3:
- Drain the water and let the roots cool down.
- After cooling down, chop the roots into small pieces
- Pat dry the pieces using a kitchen towel or tissues to remove excess water.
Step 4:
- Transfer the pat dried pieces to different plates and let them dry.
- Don’t overcrowd them; place each piece separately.
- Keep them in direct sunlight for about one week.
- If direct sunlight is not available, you can use a well-lit, properly ventilated area.
Step 5:
Check that once all sides are properly dried, roots will begin to shrink.
Step 6:
- Add the dried piece to your grinder and grind till you form a fine powder.
- Once ground well, store the fine, fresh Turmeric powder in an airtight jar.
Why Turmeric is Boiled before Drying?
The process of curing Turmeric differs from place to place. The Indian Institute of Spice Research and the Agricultural Research Centre recommends “boiling turmeric in plain water for 45 minutes until froth appears at the surface and the typical turmeric aroma is released.”
Before drying, boiling the roots is an essential process as it softens them and removes any raw odor. Boiling helps in evenly distributing the color throughout the rhizome, giving it a pleasing yellow color.
One crucial tip to keep in mind is that boiling the root for too long can lead to fading or discoloration of Turmeric.
Some benefits of boiling or curing turmeric root are::
- It reduces drying time.
- Helps in even distribution of color throughout the rhizome.
- Aids in sterilization of the rhizomes.
- It gives a more attractive (not wrinkled) product.
What is Turmeric Tea good for?
Turmeric tea is a great way to give a twist to your daily intake of Turmeric and is one of the most popular ones too.
Curcumin, an antioxidant, is found naturally in Turmeric. This highly effective compound has some great anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
So, you might ask why you should drink turmeric tea?
Apart from being a warm, calming, refreshing drink, turmeric tea is an efficient way to consume enough Curcumin which can help you to enjoy its health benefits like:
- Promotes weight loss.
- Boosts the Immune system.
- Helps to manage cholesterol levels.
- Works wonders for the skin.
- Works great as a mood booster.
- Relieves the symptoms of Arthritis.
- Good for respiratory health.
- Aids in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
- It may help to prevent cancer.
- Helps in improving inflammatory bowel disease-related symptoms.
Depending on how you like your tea, it can either be brewed with powder or with grated roots.
Don’t forget to add Black Pepper for extra kick and also because Pepper helps in the absorption of Curcumin by 2000%.
Are Turmeric Shots Good for You?
Wellness shots, such as Turmeric shots, are popular small drinks containing a high dose of beneficial nutrition like Curcumin that traditionally strengthens the immune system, prevents disease by lowering inflammation, and enhances healthy digestion.
Other than being easy to make, turmeric shots are packed with Curcumin which is known for boosting immunity, detoxifying and other health benefits.
Are Turmeric Lattes good for you?
Turmeric lattes which are also known as turmeric milk or golden milk, have been gaining popularity for quite some time now, but you may be surprised to know that it has existed for centuries as an Ayurvedic medical remedy for various ailments.
Turmeric and milk being the significant ingredients of turmeric latte, pose to have many health benefits like:
- Helps to treat acne, dark spots for healthy-looking skin.
- Aids in building stronger bones and reducing arthritic and joint pain.
- Helps in removing toxins and works as a natural blood purifier.
- It can help in soothing chest congestion and cough.
- Helps in hormonal imbalance in women that can cause irregular periods, painful cramps.
- It can relieve heartburn, bloating, and acid reflux.
- Helps in maintaining better immunity.
- It aids in lessening the symptoms of depression, like sleeplessness and anxiety.
What are some recipes one can make using Turmeric?
Turmeric has been a massive health trend in the past few years, but We believe many people are still unsure how to use it. Turmeric has been used as a spice for thousands of years. Still, we mostly see it in the form of turmeric lattes or our vitamin/supplement routine.
The Turmeric we mainly use is a bright yellow powder produced from the turmeric plant’s root, harvested, dried, and processed into a powder then used for cooking purposes.
Here are some lip-smacking recipes for you to get your daily dose of this golden wonder:
1. Soup
One of the easiest ways to use Turmeric is in soups. You can try making some.
- Yellow Mung Dal Soup
- Red Lentils Soup
- Ginger & Turmeric Carrot Soup
- Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup
2. Curry
Turmeric is typically used in Indian and South Asian cuisine, and it pairs well with curries. Turmeric is one of the spices that is almost a must in every curry, whether it’s an Indian-style curry or an Asian-inspired curry. Try some of these flavourful Curry recipes with Turmeric:
- Green Coconut Curry Lentil Soup
- Slow Cooker Coconut Quinoa Curry
- Slow Cooker Moroccan Chickpea Stew
Here are some other dishes that you can make using Turmeric are
Will Turmeric Break my Fast?
If you’ve been doing or planning on starting with intermittent fasting, you should know that you need to consume nearly no calories throughout your fast. However, some versions permit the intake of fats and carbohydrate content, which is less than 1 g.
Unfortunately, no formal study can provide a definitive solution to whether Turmeric can break you fast or not. But there are a few things we do know about Turmeric.
For starters, it has more calories than you might think. 100gm of Turmeric has 312 kcals, while one tablespoon of powdered Turmeric (approximately 9.5 gm) has 29 calories. That is significantly more than the permitted limit during a fast.
So you might want to look into this deeper or consult your nutritionist before using Turmeric in your fasting regime.
How much Turmeric should you consume per day?
An average adult should consume almost:
- Turmeric Powder – ¼ or ½ teaspoon twice a day or as advised by the doctor.
- Turmeric Juice – 2-3 teaspoons per day or as defined by the doctor.
- Turmeric Capsule – 1 capsule twice a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
- Turmeric Paste – 1/2 -1 teaspoon or as per your requirement Turmeric Oil – 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
According to The World Health Organization (WHO), a Turmeric intake of 1.4 mg per pound (0–3 mg/kg) of body weight is recommended.
Up to 500mg of Curcumin is proven beneficial for disorders like Hay fever, Depression, or Osteoarthritis, and conditions like Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver, hyperlipidemia, or while administering dosage for children, please consult a doctor first.
How does Turmeric work?
Turmeric is often called the golden miracle of modern times, and the reason is justified. Turmeric is full of multiple health benefits and healing properties that make it an all-rounder.
Let’s delve deeper and understand how it works:
- Its Anti-Inflammatory nature helps fight off harmful intruders like bacteria, viruses, and injuries and repairs damage caused by them.
- It is full of antioxidants that help to manage free radicals in the body, which can lower the chances of cardiovascular disease, manage cholesterol & triglycerides, and may improve blood pressure as well.
- Curcumin found in Turmeric is considered suitable for brain health. It may act as a neuroprotective agent, which is beneficial in treating Alzheimer’s.
- It can prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria, and significantly reduce its effects, and works wonders for your skin.
- Turmeric might help in managing diabetes by lowering blood glucose and improving insulin levels.
- It is proven beneficial in improving the metabolism rate for faster calorie burn.
According to The World Health Organization (WHO), a Turmeric intake of 1.4 mg per pound (0–3 mg/kg) of body weight is recommended.
Up to 500mg of Curcumin is proven beneficial for disorders like Hay fever, Depression, or Osteoarthritis, and conditions like Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver, hyperlipidemia, or while administering dosage for children, please consult a doctor first.
What are the properties of Turmeric?
Turmeric is known to be power-packed with compounds called ‘Curcuminoids,’ of which Curcumin is an essential active agent in Turmeric. It is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects and has powerful antioxidant properties.
But researches show that the curcumin content of Turmeric is only around 2-5%. But it is suggested that if it is combined with another spice known as black pepper, Curcumin becomes 2000 times more potent.
Turmeric is full of various properties that make it a ‘king of spices.’ Researches have shown that Raw Turmeric is composed of 70% of carbohydrates, 7% protein, 4% minerals, and at least 4% essential oils.
Other than that, it contains at least 20 molecules that have antibiotic properties, out of which 14 are known to be cancer preventatives, 12 that are anti-tumor, 12 are anti-inflammatory and have at least ten different antioxidants.
Are Turmeric and Curcumin the same thing?
The terms turmeric and Curcumin have often been used interchangeably over time. Let’s under how they are related to each other.
Turmeric is a strongly flavored spice extracted from the rhizomes, or roots, of the Curcuma longa plant that is cultivated majorly in India and Southeast Asia. This bright yellow spice is often used in curry dishes in Southeast Asian cooking and is also known for its various health benefits.
While Turmeric contains various plant chemicals, Curcumin is responsible for the majority of its health benefits. Curcumin is the primary active component in Turmeric, and it belongs to a group of plant compounds called curcuminoids. Curcumin is majorly responsible for Turmeric’s striking yellow color. But Curcumin makes up only about 2 to 8% of the Turmeric and is responsible for most of its benefits.
Researches have shown that Curcumin can be at times more effective than ibuprofen and aspirin. It is also credited to ease various symptoms of inflammatory joint conditions arthritis.
Curcumin is found in Turmeric as a chemical compound along with other compounds. So, as much as they are related, they aren’t exactly the same thing. However, there is still a need for more research to accurately compare the effects of Turmeric versus Curcumin consumption. And at the end of the day, it comes down to one’s own choice as to how and in what form they prefer to intake it.
But yes, we can say that turmeric pills often contain far more Curcumin than a conventional serving of grounded Turmeric, i.e., 95% v/s 3%. You’ll definitely obtain a high concentration of Curcumin if you take the turmeric supplement but taking grounded Turmeric (with pepper) can be a more organic approach.
If you’re unsure, see your doctor or a trained nutritionist for more insight.
Why Turmeric is Yellow in Color?
Turmeric is famously known as the “golden spice” worldwide due to its bright yellow color.
Curcumin, the active component in Turmeric, is responsible for its vibrant yellow color. When turmeric roots are harvested and then boiled and dried as a part of the curing process, which brings the Curcumin to the surface of the root, enhancing its yellow shine. Turmeric contains Curcumin, which gives the spice its vivid yellow color, which makes it an important spice for curries and soups.
To understand better, Turmeric has two pigments: xanthophylls, which give it its yellow color, and carotene, which is reddish-orange in color. A fresh turmeric rhizome/root is yellow, red, and orange in color, but ground turmeric is just yellow due to the curing process that is used to make Turmeric powder.
Why Turmeric and Black Pepper?
Turmeric is enriched with chemicals known as ‘Curcuminoids,’ of which Curcumin is the most crucial active ingredient. It is well-known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities.
However, studies reveal that the curcumin concentration of Turmeric is only 2-5% and it isn’t very well absorbed in the human body. That is why it is suggested that when paired with black pepper, which contains Piperine, Curcumin becomes 2000 times more effective.
So, it is suggested to combine Turmeric with Black Pepper to help your body receive Curcumin in enough quantity and reap all its benefits.
What Turmeric and Ginger are good for?
Turmeric and ginger have been utilized for millennia and have earned a name for being highly wholesome. Both are considered as a “dynamic duo” of Ayurveda.
Ginger’s origins can be traced back to ancient China, where it was used as a spice and medicine as well.
For centuries it has been used as a herbal treatment for motion sickness, inflammation, and digestive problems.
Turmeric and ginger, separately and in combination, can provide some fantastic health benefits for your body, such as relieving pain, boosting immunity, preventing illness, and easing morning sickness.
Both Ginger and Turmeric are root or rhizomes are used around the world, not only as food but also as traditional remedies.
Researchers believe that Ginger and Turmeric both contain active ingredients that can provide at least some relief to those who are suffering from numerous ailments like Arthritis and gastric uneasiness to migraine headaches and post-surgical pain.
What is Turmeric good for?
Well, let’s phrase this as what it isn’t good for? Because this golden miracle is beneficial in almost all aspects of one’s life. So check out some of its many benefits.
- Promotes digestive process.
- It helps in strengthening the immune system.
- Nourishes the heart and circulatory system
- It helps in regulating healthy blood sugar levels.
- Sustain comfortable joint movement.
- Aids in promoting brain and nervous system.
Other than these, there are some other benefits that have been time-tested over the years. Some of them are:
- Turmeric milk has been used as a remedy for centuries to treat cold symptoms.
- Turmeric juice is often used to promote healing wounds, bruises, and leech bites.
- In ancient India, a paste made from Turmeric, lime, and salt was commonly used as a remedy to treat sprains and inflamed joints,
- It is a common practice to inhale fumes of burning Turmeric to get instant relief from congestion.
- A paste made of turmeric and neem leaves is said to help treat itching, eczema, and any other parasitic skin condition.
What are the health benefits of Turmeric?
There is a reason why Turmeric is considered to be the “golden wonder” of Ayurveda. This wonder spice is known for its multiple health benefits and healing properties and has been used for nearly 4000 years to treat various ailments.
Let’s delve deeper into the benefits of Turmeric:
1. Turmeric Is Natural Anti-Inflammatory
The key component Curcumin, which is the most vital active agent in Turmeric, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects and strong anti-oxidant properties. In fact, some studies suggest that if taken in the right amount, then Curcumin may be a more efficient anti-inflammatory treatment than medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin.
2. May Help Ease Symptoms of Arthritis
Turmeric contains inflammatory protein such as “Interleukin” & “NF-Κb,” which can help in reducing joint pain, swelling and helps in improving movement and flexibility in case of Arthritis.
Furthermore, some studies on animals explore Curcumin’s therapeutic potential as a treatment for Arthritis and seem to have given some positive results. That said, we need more well-designed clinical tests to accurately determine the efficiency of Curcumin for arthritis patients.
3. May Help Protect Against Heart Disease
Studies have shown that due to its substantial antioxidant property, Curcumin can help in lowering bad cholesterol and triglycerides. It is also suggested it can reduce the overall absorption rate of cholesterol in the body.
4. May Help Prevent or Control Diabetes
Turmeric might help manage diabetes type 1 & 2 by lowering blood glucose and improving insulin levels. Turmeric might also prevent cell damage such as ulcers, wounds, kidney damage associated with diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
5. It helps to improve Gut health
Some studies assert that Curcumin may help ease stomach pain and discomfort in Irritable bowel syndrome due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Due to its antioxidant property, Turmeric can possibly be used to reduce the symptoms of stomach ulcers like pain and swelling.
6. Can be Used in Treatment for Depression
It is believed that people with depression are at a higher risk of inflammation which can decrease the level of ‘happy hormones’ like serotonin. Intake of Turmeric with its solid anti-inflammatory property can help to lower inflammation-induced depression.
7. May Help Prevent (and Possibly Treat) Certain Types of Cancer
As inflammation is linked to abnormal cell growth, anti-inflammatory components such as Curcumin can play a vital role in treating and preventing multiple cancer like colorectal, pancreatic, prostate, breast, and gastric cancers. Some research done on mice has shown evidence that Turmeric, because of its anti-cancer and anti-proliferative property, causes cancer cells to die or prevent them from spreading further. It is also proven beneficial in reducing the adverse side effects of chemotherapy.
8. Help Delay or Ease Symptoms Alzheimer’s Disease
Various studies have suggested that Curcumin present in Turmeric can decrease the development of amyloid plaques (a kind of amino acid) found in the brain of patients with Alzheimer’s. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can considerably reduce the inflammation of the nerve cells, and together it might help in recovering memory-related functions in Alzheimer’s patients.
9. Can Help to Treat and Improve Skin Health
Turmeric is full of helpful anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent the growth of “S. aureus,” the acne-causing bacteria, and considerably reduces the redness and discomfort around the acne area. Turmeric is also seen as an effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions like acne, eczema, photoaging, Toenail Infection, and Psoriasis, etc.
10. It helps in reducing inflammation of the gums.
Gingivitis is a kind of gum infection that arises when bacteria build up on the teeth in the form of plaque, causing gum swelling. Curcumin has anti-microbial properties that prevent bacterial plaque from forming on the teeth. Curcumin also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to minimize gum inflammation and the risk of gingivitis.
Can Turmeric cause Constipation?
Turmeric is generally considered safe, and it is also noted for possibly lowering symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. However, studies have shown that taking high amounts of it can cause Constipation and other adverse effects like dyspepsia, diarrhea, acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, etc.
Turmeric and Curcumin are known for their ability to promote bile production. Thus it’s best avoided by persons with biliary problems such as bile duct obstruction, cholangitis, liver disease, or gallstones.
Pure Turmeric is usually considered to be safe. Still, Turmeric powders, on the other hand, can be contaminated with cheap additives like wheat flour, artificial colors like Metanil yellow, and various hazardous artificial flavors, which may include lead which can be harmful to health.
Can Turmeric lower Blood Pressure?
Turmeric is proven to be beneficial in controlling and lowering high blood pressure. Curcumin, present in Turmeric, has strong antioxidant, a characteristic that is known to considerably lower high blood pressure.
Curcumin’antioxidantnt properties make it a preventive agent against high blood pressure and heart-related diseases.
Studies suggest that Curcumin promotes better functioning of endothelial cell function. Endothelial cells line the walls of our blood arteries and allow the heart to function efficiently by expanding and contracting the vessels. Curcumin helps to lower blood pressure by expanding and relaxing the blood vessels. It works by slowing an enzyme that causes blood vessels to constrict.
It is advised that people with low blood pressure should take precautions and consult a doctor before using heavy doses of Turmeric supplements since it can significantly decrease blood pressure.
Can Turmeric cause Diarrhea?
Turmeric supplements are commonly considered to be safe and have no adverse side effects when taken in a controlled dose. However, it is thought that consuming Turmeric in its natural form promotes overall good health, but taking too much of it might some people to experience mild side effects such as stomach discomfort, nausea, dizziness, or diarrhea if taken in large doses over a long period of time.
Can Turmeric cause Bloating?
Studies have shown Turmeric helps people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome improve their bloating and digestive discomfort.
It is recommended that you take 100 to 2,000 mg (0.1 to 2 g) each day, with 500 mg (0.5 g) at a time being the most common dose.
However, taking more than the recommended amount may result in mild side effects such as bloating, acid reflux, gas, and diarrhea.
Can Turmeric Cause Urinary Problems?
A person experiencing a urinary tract or bladder infection can experience symptoms like:
- Urge to urinate very often.
- Feeling a burning sensation when urinating.
- Feel feverish at times which can cause a considerable amount of pain and irritation.
Turmeric, which is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, can be used to help prevent infections and lessen the inflation caused by bacteria (Escherichia coli ) that triggers the infection.
Curcumin present in Turmeric can also work as a potent antioxidant that can help fight the infection and soothe painful symptoms.
It is advised that people suffering from Kidney stones and other kidney-related ailments should consult their doctors first before starting any turmeric supplements as it can increase oxalate levels, which can increase the risk of kidney stones.
Can Turmeric Upset your Stomach?
Some studies have found that the same agents in Turmeric that help with digestive health can cause irritation when consumed in large amounts.
Turmeric naturally stimulates the stomach to produce more gastric acid, which can aid digestion in most people but can also cause discomfort in a few.
Turmeric is known to produce heat in the body, so if taken in large amounts for an extended period of time, you may experience severe inflammation in your stomach, which can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and cramps.
Will Turmeric Lower Cholesterol?
Recent research on animals has shown that Curcumin is proven to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and suppress fat build-up in arteries.
According to Daily Health News, “the benefits of turmeric appear to be that it has the ability to prevent cholesterol production in the liver, block cholesterol absorption in the gut, and reduce LDL cholesterol oxidation in the lining of the arteries.”
In a study published in the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, ten healthy volunteers received 500 mg of Curcumin per day for seven days. Not only did their blood levels of oxidized LDL cholesterol decreased by 33%, but their total cholesterol went down by 11.63%. There was a significant change in their HDL (“good” cholesterol) which increased by 29%.
There is also evidence that Turmeric may protect patients at risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving their serum lipid levels.
Can Turmeric Help with Weight Loss?
Many pieces of research have been done over the years to track the relationship between Turmeric and weight loss. Studies suggest that Curcumin plays a vital role in reducing weight, body mass index (BMI), and leptin, a hormone that plays a significant role in obesity.
A study done on a group of overweight people which the European Review published for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences in 2015 has found that Curcumin can improve weight loss from 1.88 to 4.91%, promote the reduction of body fat from 0.70 to 8.40 percent, and change of 2.10 to 6.43 percent is noticed in BMI.
Turmeric can promote weight loss by:
- Reducing the inflammation that plays a vital role in obesity.
- Helps suppress fat tissue growth.
- Increases metabolism rate for faster calorie burn.
- Regulates sugar levels and prevents insulin resistance.
- Subdue inflammatory triggers.
Due to the lower absorption properties of Curcumin, it is advised to intake Turmeric with black pepper, which contains Piperine which improver absorption of Curcumin the body by 2000 percent. You can try Turmeric tea or turmeric water to help you reduce belly fat.
Will Turmeric Help in Joint Pain?
Experts say that there is increasingly clear evidence that the active ingredient in Turmeric may have health benefits in reducing joint pain.
In an article, Healthline reported that “It is widely believed that Curcumin, which is the active ingredient in Turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. And for this reason, it’s frequently used as a supplement by many people to help with joint symptoms,”
Research shows that Curcumin prevents certain enzymes and cytokines that lead to inflammation in patients suffering from Arthritis which makes it possible supplementary medication for joint-related ailments.
Because Turmeric is generally safe in its natural form, this supplement may be a suitable addition to your diet without any harm. Curcumin is also known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, and anti-cancer properties.
How Turmeric is Good for Skin?
Turmeric is considered holy in Indian culture and holds great significance as it represents purity, wellbeing, and affluence!
Curcumin, the active agent, found in Turmeric, acts as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and contains anti-microbial elements, which adds to its benefits.
Turmeric is well-known for its ability to remove toxins from the body, which aids in treating various skin diseases. As a result, Turmeric is used in both natural and traditional skincare regimens.
Let’s take a look at what this Golden Miracle can do for your skin:
- It can bring a natural glow.
- It helps to heal the wound and reduce skin inflammation.
- It improves tissue and collagen generation.
- It aids in soothing symptoms of Psoriasis.
- It reduces acne breakouts and acne scarring.
- Turmeric and neem are used in treating skin rashes and scabies.
What Turmeric Does to your Skin?
Turmeric’s main properties come from Curcumin, which is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory capabilities. And that is just not it; it also has anti-microbial and antiseptic qualities that make it an excellent healing substitute.
There are various benefits for skin that Turmeric is well-known for; some of them are:
- It minimizes wrinkles and delays the aging process of the skin.
- It evens out discolorations on the skin.
- It aids in the lightening of dark circles.
- It also promotes the circulation of blood.
- It helps to prevent pimples and outbreaks.
- It Improves the elasticity of your skin.
- It is also known to lessen the growth of facial hair.
- It lowers the redness and puffiness of the blemish.
- It promotes the regulation of sebum production.
- It reduces puffiness because of inflammation.
- It supports the recovery and prevention of dry skin.
Which Turmeric is Good for Face?
Turmeric is regarded as a universal healer having properties that can strengthen many areas of the body but did you know that it is considered to do wonders when it comes to skin health?
Yes, Turmeric has been used as a natural and conventional alternative skin-care product for ages. Turmeric is acknowledged in Ayurveda to promote Agni, or digestive fire, which contributes to the reduction of Kapha and Ama (toxins). Removal Toxin from the body aids in the treatment of several skin conditions.
One such natural gem is the glow-enhancing herb called “Kasturi Manjal” or Wild Turmeric, which has been used as a natural Ayurvedic cosmetic remedy in India for generations.
Kasturi Manjal is a member of the Turmeric family, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects.
Wild Turmeric or Kasturi Manjal is produced from the root extract of Curcuma aromatica, which is highly scented and non-staining in nature, making it the perfect choice for usage in skin-care products.
It can help you get better skin by:
- Enhancing your complexion.
- Aids in the prevention of acne.
- It helps to get rid of greasy skin.
- Aiding to get rid of dark circles.
- Helping in reducing facial hair.
- Improving your skin to look younger and supple.
Will Turmeric Stain my Skin?
While all Turmeric contains Curcumin, a natural dye in small quantities, they generally don’t stain one’s skin. But with different products in the market, some poor standard products may have artificial colors added to them to give a bright yellow color.
There are few other factors to keep in mind before using Turmeric on your skin.
To begin with, always use the appropriate kind of Turmeric. Kasturi turmeric/Wild Turmeric (Curcuma aromatica) is naturally almost non-staining and beneficial for the skin. It is, however, not edible and should only be used externally.
Always test a patch of Turmeric on a small area to know if you are allergic to it or not.
Will Turmeric Stain my Teeth?
Turmeric is used and is part of almost all Indian dishes as it gives the curry a bright yellow color. While its yellow pigment is intense in color, it may temporarily stain your teeth, but it doesn’t stay for long enough to cause concern. The ideal way of consuming Turmeric is combining it with leafy greens, and brushing your teeth and tongue right after consuming should not leave any stains.
Are Turmeric Supplements Safe?
Turmeric is known for its multifold benefits in our day-to-day lives, but this question has been raised from time to time as to how safe Turmeric supplements are?
Generally, Curcumin or turmeric supplements are believed to be safe. They have no harmful side effects if taken in controlled and low dosage. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a Turmeric intake of 1.4 mg per pound (0–3 mg/kg) of body weight. Up to 500mg of Curcumin is proven beneficial for disorders like Hay fever, Depression, osteoarthritis, etc.
Turmeric supplements tend to have a higher level of concentration of Curcumin and other curcuminoids as compared to ground turmeric. 0.5 g of turmeric supplement contains around 400 mg of curcuminoids, whereas 0.5 g of ground turmeric only contains 15 mg of curcuminoids. Hence it is advised that one can take up to 100 to 2,000 mg ( 0.1 to 2 g) per day and 500 mg (0.5 g) at a time.
As the proverb goes, “too much of anything is never good,” and the same goes with Turmeric/curcumin supplements. Though it has not been clinically proven to have any adverse effect on human health, some studies reveal that taking doses of 1,200–2,100 mg of Curcumin per day for 2–6 weeks didn’t lead to any unfavorable effects yet, a small proportion of people may experience some mild side effects like digestive issues like bloating, acid reflux, headache and nausea and even skin rashes at higher doses.
We advise you to consult your doctor if you feel any discomfort after taking turmeric supplements.
Which Turmeric Supplement is Best?
Turmeric supplements may help protect against heart disease, relieve arthritis symptoms, cure or prevent diabetes, and slow the progression of some types of cancer.
Here are some supplements that you might want to try:
Which Turmeric Tablets are best for Arthritis?
With various supplements present in the market, one can often get lost as to what one is looking for. This list will help you guide you through the right type of supplement that enables you to ease Arthritis symptoms.
Some researchers suggest that Curcumin may provide comfort for certain patients suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory arthritic disorders. Curcumin represses certain enzymes and cytokines that cause inflammation leading to pain and stiffness.
What are the side effects of Turmeric?
With every pro come cons, though there are no known common side effects, here are some tips and advice to keep in mind:
- Turmeric is likely unsafe for pregnant women when taken by mouth in medicinal quantity.
- Not recommended to some with gallstones or a bile duct obstruction.
- People with severe liver diseases should avoid intake of Curcumin.
- Patients with a bleeding disorder should avoid taking Turmeric as it might slow blood clotting.
How Turmeric is used as Indicator?
Turmeric is acidic by nature and is used as an indicator for acidity and basicity in various experiments.
Like many other natural food colors, Turmeric is also sensitive to the pH value of its surroundings. At an alkaline pH that is above 7, it will turn red.
Turmeric remains the same (i.e., yellow) when added to an acidic or neutral solution, but when added to a basic solution (with a pH of more than 7), it will turn red.
Why does Turmeric turn Red?
Turmeric is naturally acidic, and it is frequently used as an indication of acidity and basicity in many studies.
Turmeric, like many other natural food colors, is sensitive to the pH of its environment. It will become red if the pH is more than 7 (i.e., alkaline).
When Turmeric is added to an acidic or neutral solution, it keeps the same color (yellow), but it turns bright Red when added to a basic solution (with a pH greater than 7).
Due to the presence of tartaric acid in Turmeric, when it combines with sodium hydroxide, which is found in soaps and detergents (and has pH above 7), Turmeric stains turn red.
That is why we see Turmeric stains turning Red when washed with soap or detergent. The presence of tartaric acid reacts with sodium hydroxide, which is found in soaps and has a pH above 7.
I hope you have got everything on your checklist regarding Turmeric. We suggest that you introduce this Wonder Spice to your daily diet to reap its benefits.
Homemade herb cheese spread
This cheese spread is a homemade version of a store-bought cheese spread. It is light, creamy, and can be modified to include your favorite herbs and spices. You can choose to use the low-fat versions of the dairy ingredients to make it healthy. You can use this cheese spread for toast, crackers, or as a dip
Good for Vata Dosha
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 Minutes
Serves: 2 Cup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the milk in a clean container.
- As it nears the boiling point, add vinegar/lemon juice and turn off the heat. Let the milk solids separate.
- Strain the milk in the cheesecloth and allow it to drain for 30 mins.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the greek yogurt with herbs. Add the drained milk cheese and mix well.
- Add salt, combine and serve.
Notes
The strained liquid is called whey and is highly nutritious. It can be used to knead chapati dough or can be added in dals or soups.
Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe
Peppercorn Milk
This peppercorn milk recipe is useful for a person with high-Kapha dosha and is an excellent remedy for cough, cold, and throat infection.
Good for Kapha Dosha
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 10 Minutes
Serves: 1 Cup
Ingredients
- ½ t coarsely ground peppercorns
- 1 cup whole milk (preferably Cow’s milk)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 t honey / maple syrup (optional)
Method
- Add milk, water, and peppercorns in a saucepan and bring it to a boil over high flame.
- Reduce the heat to medium flame and let it simmer until 1 cup of liquid is left.
- Add Honey/Maple Syrup. Mix well, filter, and serve warm.
Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe
Pippali Milk
Milk acts as an anupan, or carrier substance, bringing the qualities of herbs deeper into the tissues and is a very effective way to take the herbs of your choice and enjoy their benefits. This pippali milk recipe is good for respiratory disorders like bronchitis and asthma and is effective for digestive disorders.
Good for Kapha Dosha
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 10 Minutes
Serves: 1 Cup
Ingredients
- ½ t ground pippali
- 1 cup whole milk (preferably Cow’s milk)
- 1 t honey/maple syrup (optional)
- ¼ cup water
Method
- Add milk, water, and ground pippali in a saucepan and bring it to a boil over high flame.
- Reduce the heat to medium flame and let it simmer until 1 cup of liquid is left.
- Add honey/maple syrup. Mix well and serve warm.
Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe
Ginger Powder Milk
Milk acts as an anupan, or carrier substance, bringing the qualities of herbs deeper into the tissues and is a very effective way to take the herbs of your choice and enjoy their benefits. This ginger milk is good for people suffering from constipation, chronic indigestion, and Kapha-Vata respiratory illnesses like cough and sore throat.
Good for Kapha and Vata Dosha
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 10 Minutes
Serves: 1 Cup
Ingredients
- ½ t dry ginger powder
- 1 cup whole milk (preferably Cow’s milk)
- 1 t Honey or maple syrup (optional)
- ¼ cup water
Method
- Add milk, water, and ginger powder in a saucepan and bring it to a boil over high flame.
- Reduce the heat to medium flame and let it simmer until 1 cup of liquid is left.
- Add honey/maple syrup. Mix well and serve warm.
Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe
Vegan Chocolate Pudding
The best part of this pudding is that it doesn’t need to be cooked, baked, or chopped. That’s why it is a favorite dessert for summer. Dark chocolate acts as a mood booster and this pudding is perfect for those gloomy evenings. To enhance the taste, you can garnish this pudding with berries or mint.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 Minutes
Serves: 2 Person
Ingredients
- ½ slab of dark chocolate compound
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 t vanilla extract
- ½ T coconut oil
- A large pinch of your favorite spice (eg. cardamom, cinnamon, clove, or star anise)
- 1 T maple syrup
- A pinch of salt (preferably Himalayan salt)
Method
- Spoon out the avocado and place it in an electric mixer.
- In a double boiler, melt the chocolate compound and add coconut oil. Mix, till it forms a smooth paste
- Start the electric mixer with avocado and slowly add a drizzle of melted chocolate
- Keep mixing till it all the chocolate is added to the mixer and it has a thick flowy consistency
- Add vanilla extract, maple syrup and spices. Mix well
- Portion out in serving glasses and refrigerate for 4 hours
- Serve chilled with your favorite topping like berries or mint.
Notes
This is a wonderful vehicle for therapeutic herbs and spices. Especially the ones that are bitter can be added to this pudding and consumed with the bitterness of chocolate.
Check out the Ayurvedic benefits of ingredients used in this recipe
Cardamom | Cinnamon | Clove | Star Anise | Salt