Turmeric is an exotic root that is either Indian and Malaysian originally. Grown for its benefits for nearly 4000 years in its region of origin, this spice was already used in China around the 7th century BC before arriving in the West during Antiquity. Since then, many stories, supposed miracles, and legends have been circulating on the account of this root.
The origins of turmeric
In its early days, Turmeric was used as a dye for fabrics thanks to its bright and vivid colour. It was then used as a spice to enhance the taste of dishes, as a medicinal plant and it was also used during religious holidays in India. Turmeric is described as a love filter in the legend of Ganesh’s wedding day. It is represented as a symbol of fertility and fidelity. China, as well as the Arab countries, were also happy to use it for its powerful taste and properties.
On the other hand, in Europe, turmeric was not a great success at the time. It was Spain, under the influence and occupation of its territory by the Arabs, that began to incorporate it into certain traditional dishes. But why hasn’t Europe welcomed this root with the same enthusiasm as Asia and the Middle East? Was its taste too exotic for the medieval times? Was it too difficult to find it? was it a particular aversion for orange spices? History does not say.
The magic of turmeric
New discoveries force us to reconsider our Western judgment on this root. Also known as Indian saffron or Siamese tulip, turmeric has many qualities according to daily health lifestyles and healthline.
The benefits attributed to it, after being scientifically tested, were so amazing that the United States wanted to patent certain uses. Of course, this caused a major disagreement with India. The US obtained the patent in 1995, but it was quickly taken away from them. India’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research could not accept that the USA was about to take credit for the discovery of the properties of turmeric. They were already widely known and described in the Ayurveda treaties – texts written for thousands of years in India.
The benefits of turmeric
For 4000 years, Ayurvedic medicine has known turmeric as a miracle cure for many ailments. It helps when having intestinal problems for example, as well as for small wounds. It has an important place in the Asian diet and the population of this continent suffers far less from cancers than European countries. Coincidence? Maybe not.
In some hospitals and health centers in India, Canada and America, breast and pancreatic cancers, ulcers and other inflammations are treated with the precious help of turmeric. A clinical trial also showed that smokers (consuming 1.5 g of turmeric for 30 days) reduced the carcinogenic compounds present in their body. But be careful: this does not mean that they are canceled. Turmeric or no turmeric… smoking kills.
But what does turmeric contain to be so effective? Curcumin. This substance is responsible for most of the benefits of turmeric. Curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
Turmeric roots
In summary, classical turmeric (curcuma longa) has positive effects on more than 600 known diseases! You heard me, 600. According to the California college of Ayurveda, Turmeric and its inseparable curcumin ensure you to remain healthy. If you want to fully enjoy curcumin, you must combine it with piperine, which is naturally present in pepper. Be aware, however, that curcumin has a slight preference for black pepper. Together, piperine will make curcumin easier to digest.
To consume turmeric
Turmeric can also improve the appearance of your skin. It revives dull skin, reduces redness, reduces under-eye puffiness and reduces the appearance of acne pimples. Here are 8 simple turmeric masks that can be made at home. Before applying them to your face, I strongly advise you to protect your clothes and wear plastic gloves! Remember that turmeric is still used today to dye fabrics.
After having read this article, you could get a glimpse of the many benefits of turmeric. Nos, you know enough details in order to decide to include it in your daily habits or not.
To increase your consumption of turmeric, know that it is part of a more well-known spice blend: curry. But it is also present in the composition of Colombo and Ras-El-Hanout. It is also possible to consume it in essential oil and capsules. As for the latter, they can be consumed without risk if you do not take other treatments. If so, ask your doctor for advice, as well as if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Recipes with turmeric
If you need inspiration for recipes that include turmeric and thus increase your food consumption of it, here are some drinks containing turmeric and mains dishes.
You can also consume it as juice. Some producers create juices and other products containing turmeric in an organic and fair way with producers. Some of their products are available on Farmy.ch.
What do you think?