There seems to be no stopping to the growing interest people all over the world are now having in natural things. From food, clothes, cosmetics, detergents, health remedies to just about anything, natural stuff now seems to have the winning edge. Natural herbs and spices mainly used to flavour dishes are now wearing a different hat. They are now relied on not for the flavour and aroma they give to food but for their medicinal value and healing properties.
A Spice Standout
One spice that has been in the spotlight in the nutraceutical world in recent years is turmeric. Its impressive health benefits make more and more people want to buy turmeric powder. Once simply known as an indispensable spice in curries and many other Indian, Southeast Asian and Mid-Eastern dishes, turmeric is now part of many people’s daily health regimen. From the kitchen cupboard, turmeric is now a mainstay in the medicine cabinets of many homes for many good reasons.
A Burst of Colour and Flavour
is derived from the rhizomes or underground stems of the turmeric plant, which is from the ginger family. These rhizomes can be used fresh, boiled, or dried and then ground into a powder. While some prefer to use fresh turmeric rhizomes, many opt to buy turmeric powder instead, because of the convenience the powdered form offers. Turmeric adds an appetizing deep, yellow-orange colour and an earthy, slightly bitter and peppery taste to sweet and savoury dishes, soups, drinks, and even to baked goodies. It is also a popular colouring agent and is used as an ingredient in skin preparations and cosmetics.
A boost to good health
Turmeric’s medicinal and therapeutic applications have long been recognized in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and folk medicine of different cultures. For ages, it has been a prescribed remedy for skin disorders, upper respiratory tract, joint and digestive system ailments, among others.
Much interest has been given to turmeric in recent years. Investigative studies have pointed out that most of the health benefits of this wonder spice comes from its main component, curcumin. It is also this compound that gives turmeric its distinct, rich, dark yellow hue. This well-studied component is known to give turmeric its immune-boosting, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These benefits surely top the list of benefits many, or all would love to reap from any supplement they take.
Due to its health-promoting compounds and properties, turmeric has been found to potentially benefit the heart and digestive health and liver function. Evidence also points out that turmeric may also help maintain prostate and lung health, as well as keep cholesterol and blood sugar at healthy levels. And the list of benefits of this wonder spice continues. Certain studies also indicate that turmeric has the potential of protecting the brain from certain degenerative diseases prevalent in the present day.
The vibrantly coloured turmeric powder also stores a wealth of essential nutrients and potent phytochemicals. Vitamin B6, iron, copper, magnesium and potassium are present in turmeric. Good levels of Omega 3 and 6 are also derived from this super spice.
Who wouldn’t be impressed with what this spice offers? More than colour and flavour it offers an abundance of gifts for good health. Surely, its popularity wouldn’t have stood the test of time if it were not this good and potent.
