Turmeric is used throughout the world as a spice and in herbal medicine as a healing remedy. It is native to Indonesia and India, where it’s been harvested for more than 5,000 years. More than just an ingredient in curry, turmeric has grabbed the attention of the nutrition world for its amazing medicinal properties.
Turmeric is traditional to Indian cooking and commonly used in Ayurvedic practices.
The amazing health benefits of turmeric:
- Turmeric has been used for centuries to quell stomach irritation and combat indigestion
- Turmeric supports the liver and gallbladder, making it excellent for detox
- Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory making it an excellent choice for inflammatory conditions from joint swelling to blood pressure problems to heart disease to obesity
- Turmeric supports the health of your mitochondria, the energy-center of your brain
- Turmeric has been shown to improve mood by boosting serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain
- Turmeric is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral, anti-tumor and anti-aging…wow!
Selecting and storing turmeric:
Fresh turmeric can be found in the refrigerated section of your local market. Choose roots that are crisp and evenly colored – they can be refrigerated for up to three weeks.
Turmeric powder is available in the spice section of your grocery store or it also can be bought in bulk. Store it tightly covered in a dark glass jar as exposure to light and oxygen will denature it.
Turmeric can stain, so be sure to protect your countertops and clothing!
Quick prep ideas:
There are many ways to use turmeric in your kitchen. Here are some of my favorites:
- Add turmeric to your favorite soup. Or try my Summer Carrot and Turmeric Soup.
- May be used to add color or flavor to any vegetable or grain dish.
- Turmeric is a staple ingredient in curry powder; feel free to add an extra sprinkle of turmeric to all curry dishes.
- Give salad dressings a nutritional boost by adding some turmeric powder to them.
- Try sprinkling turmeric on scrambled eggs or in egg salad.
- Add to lentil and cauliflower dishes.
Your Simple Action Plan:
This week, what are some delicious ways you can work more turmeric into your menu? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
