
WHAT IS TURMERIC?
Botanical Name: Curcuma Longa
Also known as:
Curcuma, Haridra, Gauri, Haldi, Indian Saffron, and You Jin.
Turmeric is rich in Antioxidants, which protect against free radicals.
Properties found in this herb are believed to support better digestion and reduce bloating,
stabilization of mood, and support liver health.
Also, turmeric is used in many culinary dishes to add flavor and color.
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS:
One of the biggest contributing factors to Turmeric's amazing benefits is the polyphenol curcumin,
which is also responsible for its distinctive orange-yellow hue.
Research on curcumin shows it to be potentially beneficial for prostate health.
There is also evidence suggesting curcumin as a contributing factor for maintaining mental health,
as well as a promoter of joint health.
This amazing compound may even be helpful for gastrointestinal health
and maintaining blood sugar levels already in the normal range.
In addition to the vitamins and minerals Turmeric contains,
this root also contains the essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6.
These essential fatty acids are not produced by the human body, and must be taken in through foods such as Turmeric.
Turmeric tea is one popular form of consuming turmeric. It has a unique but subtle flavor. The tea is also great way to reap the following health benefits of turmeric.
1. Add it to scrambles and frittatas.
Use a pinch of turmeric in scrambled eggs, a frittata, or tofu scramble. If you or your family are new to turmeric, this is a great place to start because the color is familiar and the flavor subtle.
Get a Recipe: Southwestern Tofu Scramble
2. Toss it with roasted vegetables.
Turmeric's slightly warm and peppery flavor works especially well with cauliflower, potatoes, and root vegetables.
3. Add it to rice.
A dash of turmeric brings color and mild flavor to a pot of plain rice or a fancier pilaf.
4. Try it with greens.
Sprinkle turmeric into sautéed or braised greens like kale, collards, and cabbage.
5. Use it in soups.
A bowl of vegetable or chicken soup feels even more warming when it's tinged with golden turmeric.
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6. Blend it into a smoothie.
While fresh turmeric root is especially great in juices and smoothies, a pinch of ground spice is good, too. The slightly pungent flavor is usually well masked in smoothies.
7. Make tea.
Simmer turmeric with milk and honey to make an earthy and comforting beverage.
An Additional Tip: If you're looking to get the health benefits of turmeric, pair it with pepper. Herbalist Rosalee de la Forêt tells us, "To get the most out of your turmeric add 3% black pepper to the mix. Black pepper improves the bioavailability of turmeric, making smaller doses more effective." This works out to about 1/2 teaspoon of ground pepper to 1/4 cup of turmeric. To make it easy, I simply premix pepper into my jar of turmeric.