Turmeric is a flowering plant, Curcuma longa of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, the roots of which are used in cooking. From ancient times turmeric is been used but nowadays it is everywhere. You may see those beautiful yellow turmeric lattes being whipped up in coffee shops, turmeric poached eggs for brunch, and turmeric being added to smoothies and chocolate bars. It’s not because of the bright yellow color it is used as it has an abundance of benefits which good for health.
Turmeric is an herb plant that grows in India and Central America. You most likely know it best for its near-ubiquity in Indian cuisine. It is a spice that has received much interest from both the medical worlds as well as from the culinary world. It is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant (Curcuma longa) of the ginger family. Curcuma is the active ingredient in turmeric, and it has powerful biological properties. Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional Indian system of treatment, recommend it for a variety of health conditions.
It has been used in Asia for thousands of years and is a major part of Ayurveda, Siddha medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, Unani. It was first used as a dye, and then later for its supposed properties in folk medicine. As the name turmeric derives from Middle English or Early Modern English as turmeryte or tarmaret. It may be of Latin origin, terra merita. It is one of the key ingredients in many Asian dishes for earthy aroma and pungent, slightly bitter flavor to foods. It is used mostly in savory dishes but also is used in some sweet dishes.
What Nutrition Turmeric Consist Of?
In a teaspoon of turmeric has 9 calories. More surprising is that it offers some protein 0.3 grams (g) — and fiber (0.7 g), in a very small amount. With 1.65 milligrams (mg) of iron, it also provides about 9 percent of the daily value for this nutrient. It consists of 26 percent of manganese, 16 percent of iron, 5 percent of potassium, and, 3 percent of vitamin C.
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In Indian kitchens, it is known as one of the powerful ingredients and also used in a variety of health problems. Its incredible list of healing properties includes antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic, and anti-inflammatory. The use of this spice has been traced back a thousand years. It has many health benefits which tell how turmeric is good for our health.
Health Benefits Of Turmeric
Provides Relief From Arthritic Pain
It has anti-inflammatory properties that have been instrumental in treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The antioxidant also destroys the free radicals in the body that damage the cells.
Boost Immunity
Lipopolysaccharide – a substance in turmeric with anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal agents helps stimulate the human immune system. Take a teaspoon of the spice powder in a glass of warm milk daily and you’ll see it work wonders.
Aids In Digestion
When consumed raw while suffering from a digestive problem, turmeric can help manage the condition. The major components of the spice stimulate the gallbladder to produce bile, instantly making the digestive system more efficient.
Healing Properties
Its natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties make it an effective disinfectant. The powder can be sprinkled on the affected area to help it heal faster. Instead of turning to a pill, the next time you experience an upset stomach or heartburn, try this super spice instead.
Helps Your Liver Detox
It is known to increase the production of the vital enzymes that detoxify our blood in the liver by breaking down and reducing the toxins. By improving blood circulation too, turmeric is instrumental in promoting good liver health.
Support Skin Health
It is an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant-rich spice, making it potentially effective for treating skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It helps in treating skin disorders.
