Turmeric and its many uses

Turmeric and its many uses

Dear Friends,

I consider Turmeric a wonder spice.Its native of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.Its scientific name is Curcuma longa .Its a member of the ginger  family Zingeberaceae. Its yellow hue is due to the presence of a compound called Curcumin. This active compound in turmeric gives it the anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

No wonder our ancestors and grandparents knew about it long time ago and used it in nearly each and every dish prepared daily in the household.

Many of you like me have seen it to be used in our family kitchen since our childhood.It not only imparts a beautiful hue to the dish but also has immense health benefits.

Some tit bits of Turmeric are listed below :-

1. In cooking as a spice in various curries,tandoori chicken ,pickles.

2. In Hindu marriage ceremony before marriage the bride and groom are applied a paste of turmeric on face and body which serves as a natural anti-bacterial agent.

3. It is also anti inflammatory.

4. It has a broad spectrum importance including in the fields of Medicine,Cosmetics,World Cuisine,Therapeutic purpose to name a few.

5. When buying turmeric nowadays a bit of caution is advised due to its possible adulteration with Metanil yellow colour,chalk powder etc.

6. Turmeric milk benefit is enhanced with addition of pinch of black peppercorn powder (Golmorich ) to help body to absorb the turmeric.

7. It is also said to boost immunity.

8. I myself benefit  when I drink a Luke warm cup of turmeric milk with a pinch of black peppercorn powder as soon as I start experiencing tonsil pain.I also add little honey to it.Its my personal preference.

9. Since Turmeric has Antioxidant properties ( the ability to counteract damage caused by the free radicals) and anti inflammatory so research is now being done in the field of cancer treatment as well.

 Note :-

It is always advisable to use caution and get advise of a doctor if in taking turmeric medicinally.

The intent of this post is to generate awareness among all of us about the importance of turmeric in our day to day life. Please share your views and comments .