TURMERIC The Golden Spice

Turmeric originated mostly from India

Its (scientifically called Curcuma longa) is from the Ginger family, a plant grown and formed through the flowering process.  The turmeric plant roots are also edible and can be eaten raw or in salads.

This is a tropical plant widely found growing in South East Asia but has mostly originated from Southern part of India. In 800 BC this spice spread from India to South Asia, to Middle East and Africa. Originally it was used as a dye – a vibrant orange yellow colour which is so much a part of our Indian culture.  And further down it become more prevalently and extensively used for its medicinal purposes – in India’s ancient system of medicine known as Ayurveda. India grows and produces around 80 % to 90 % of world’s turmeric – out of which around 60% is exported.

Curcumin is the main ingredient found in Turmeric.  And it is known for its powerful anti – inflammatory effects, very strong antioxidants, and its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-sceptic properties.   While Indians have known this spice and its benefits for thousands of years, our western world is just getting to know this – and through scientific research now there is so much more information available out there on its proven benefits, on how it supplements in curing various diseases.

As far as I can remember – turmeric has always been a part of our household.  Other then it being used daily in all our cooking – curry’s, vegetables, dals etc :-

• It is applied on numerous hurts and wound as an antiseptic – to stop the flow of blood. It is the first available first aid in most household in this continent.
• Used as a Face Mask – a paste of chickpea flour, turmeric and cream ( malia) for natural brightness.  It also is used as a natural bleach too, helps lighten skin tones.
• Honey and turmeric is used as a treatment for Acne
• Drinking a glass of warm water with a pinch of turmeric everyday – upon waking up (every morning) is an best way to de-toxify your body, help build your immune system, improves digestion which improves complexion etc.
• Honey with turmeric, or milk with turmeric is an ancient treatment for common cold.
• And plus in Hinduism, turmeric has a huge religious significance. It is used as a part of all worship ceremonies as it is considered a symbol of purity, prosperity and fertility. Turmeric paste is used to anoint statues and pictures of gods.
• In Indian weddings, the auspicious start is first by applying turmeric paste on the wedding cards being sent out. Then before the wedding day the close relatives of the groom and the bride apply turmeric paste on them and a part of the wedding ritual.
• Nowadays turmeric is used in many commercial application – there are soaps, sunscreens, creams etc, all trying to enter the bandwagon of its goodness.

Benefits :

This is used to prevent and stop growth of many kinds of cancers, reduces risk of childhood leukemic.  Alzheimer’s cases is found to be very less in India as compared to Western countries – which has been attributed to the use of turmeric. This is a natural liver detoxifier and help in weight management by aiding fat metabolism.

I distinctly remember a known Chef from Western world – in one of his documentary sharing that he did not like the use of the golden spice in most of Indian cuisines.  Well, I hope he has had time since his last documentary to do some research.

Whatever be your reason, make sure you get one !… This golden spice has truly proved its worth through ages.  Health always comes first.  Live Healthy !!

Author: Margaret KM 

More posts by Margaret: 10 Benefits of Turmeric Tea