Why is Turmeric Considered ‘Gold’?
The people of India say that turmeric is gold. Not only is it a flavorful spice for cooking but it has great medicinal value too.
“Turmeric and honey are the perfect combination for good health in literally every sense.” SOURCE: Turmeric and honey, the perfect combination for health.
When it comes to turmeric, that article writer is preaching to the choir. I do not need to be convinced. I discovered this spice late in life when my late husband developed a serious heart condition. I do have regrets that we did not find out about it sooner. No wonder the people of India call this spice “gold”!
It’s not just its pretty color. Indians learned a long time ago that turmeric can be used for cooking and for medicinal purposes. Of course, they say this about a lot of spices but if I were making a list of the best medicinal spices on planet earth, turmeric would be at the top of my list, with or without honey. Although, if you are using it in a tea drink or a smoothie, you probably should add honey. It’s kind of bitter.
WARNING: As always, if you are taking something for health reasons, you should consult a physician or a qualified medical practitioner.
A Few Notes:
♦ Always add a dash of black pepper when using turmeric. It helps the body absorb the spice better so that it can yield marvelous health benefits.
♦ Turmeric can be included in a baby’s first foods, i.e. when they are ready for solids. (Be sure it's powdered. Fresh turmeric could choke them.)
♦ Turmeric is in the ginger root family (which explains the resemblance).
♦ The botanical name for turmeric is Curcuma longa.
♦ Based on evidence found in Ayurvedic texts, turmeric was used in ancient India for healthcare. The residue of turmeric, ginger, and garlic found after analyzing the cooking pots dug up by archaeologists provide evidence that the spice was also used as a food seasoning.
♦ Turmeric eventually found its way to the West by way of the British East India Trading Company. It was imported as part of the spice blend or mixture for a curry. (Typical ingredients for curry powder are: turmeric, cumin, coriander, fenugreek, and ground chili peppers.)
TURMERIC is a unique spice that many call turmeric “Indian Saffron”. This is an ancient spice with a fascinating history [1]. It is used for cooking and for medicinal purposes. There are two main types of turmeric powder: Madras and Alleppey. Madras turmeric is grown in Tamil Nadu (in India). Alleppey turmeric is produced in Kerala. Madras turmeric is light yellow while Alleppey turmeric is much darker in color [2]. Furthermore, there are five varieties of turmeric that are grown mainly in Kerala [3].
1) Curcuma aromatica or Kasturi Manjal is used for skincare but not often used in cooking because of its bitter taste.
2) The turmeric produced from the Curcumin longa is used as an ingredient in Curry Powder.
3) Kuda Manjal turmeric is considered very sacred and so it is used in various ceremonies and rituals.
4) Kari Manjal or Black Turmeric is used in many Ayurvedic medicines.
5) Mara Manjal or Tree manjal is also used in preparing some very special medicines; however, this variety of turmeric is fast disappearing from Western Ghats.
♦ REFERENCES:
[1] Avey, Tori. “What Is the History of Turmeric?” PBS, Public Broadcasting Service, 9 Mar. 2015, https://www.pbs.org/food/the-history-kitchen/turmeric-history/.
[2] “Turmeric Explained.” Herbie’s Spices, 19 July 2017, https://www.herbies.com.au/general/turmeric-explained-2/.
[3] “TURMERIC TYPES AND USES.” Atina Foods, ATINA FOODS AND EMPORIUM, 8 Feb 2018, https://www.atinafoods.com/blog/2017/5/1/turmeric-types-and-uses/.
♦ ♦ Learn More About Turmeric:
Turmeric side effects: Health benefits and risks
7 Tips for Taking Turmeric — Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic ~
Turmeric for Babies — First Foods for Baby — Solid Starts
History of Turmeric | The History Kitchen | PBS Food
Warm Mulled Chai Turmeric Drink | Amber Approved
Easy Vegan Golden Milk | Minimalist Baker Recipes
Easy Turmeric Recipes — Olive Magazine
Thanks for reading.