Turmeric

ORIGINS

India

TASTE

Pungent, bitter flavor

AYURVEDA & MEDICINAL USES

The active ingredients in turmeric are extensive, but a particularly crucial compound is curcumin. This substance has received considerable attention in the medical community due to its potent anti-inflammatory abilities.

Turmeric has long been used as a stomach soother, and is particularly useful for constipation, cramping, and irritable bowel syndrome.

NOTABLE FACTS

Turmeric is known as golden spice of India. The turmeric plants were cultivated by Harappan civilization earlier in the 3000 B.C. In India, at the time of wedding, turmeric paste is applied over the bride and grooms body mainly face and arms in order to beautify and enrich skin complexion.

TRY-ME RECIPES

Crush the peppercorns, cardamom seeds, and cloves with a mortar and pestle. Peel and chop the turmeric root and ginger. In a small pan, heat the milk along with the spices for 2-3 minutes. Let the mixture cool until it’s warm, then drain it into a cup. Add honey to taste. Drink immediately.

Using chopped fresh turmeric root is a great way to add color (and mild flavor) to white and yellow pureed soups, such as carrot soup, cauliflower soup, and yellow pea soup. The flavor of fresh turmeric pairs well ginger, so look for soup recipes that also call for fresh ginger.