What is turmeric?
Turmeric is a plant in the ginger family, but the word also refers to the yellow powder extracted from the plant's rhizome. "Turmeric is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine," explains cosmetic chemist and found of Beauty Stat Ron Robinson. The fragrant extract — often said to have an earthy or mustard-y aroma — is also widely used as a spice in cuisine across Asia. "The most active component in turmeric is an ingredient called curcumin."
Turmeric, sometimes called Indian saffron or the golden spice, is a tall plant that grows in Asia and Central America. The turmeric on shelves and in spice cabinets is made of the ground roots of the plant. The bright yellow color of processed turmeric has inspired many cultures to use it as a dye.
Indians consumed more turmeric in 2020 hoping to benefit from its antiviral properties, as the reality of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic dawned on them.
Turmeric has been used as a traditional medicine for relieving pain and improving general health for centuries. People consume turmeric and curcumin for inflammation, weight loss, immunity, and as an antioxidant superfood.
Other than cooking with it, people consumed it in the form of kadhaa. From vegan turmeric lattes to chia turmeric cookies and detox teas, the variety of products in the market has increased during the lockdowns.
However, before the turmeric powder reaches consumers, the underground stems or rhizomes of the Curcuma longa plant goes through a long and cumbersome method of processing. The rhizome is cleaned, boiled for 45 minutes to one hour, dried for 15-20 days in the open and then polished.
Turmeric Benefits:
Skincare
turmeric-infused skin care may help soothe skin, even out skin tone, and even encourage collagen production. "Further testing might be needed to actually confirm these claims," he says, but so far, research is showing impressive results.
If you’re dealing with a breakout or have a pesky zit you want to get rid of, then break out the turmeric! Not only does the spice help reduce oil secretions that cause pimples, but its anti-inflammatory properties can also cut down on acne scars.
Period issues
Is Aunt Flo in town? Then she’s probably giving you hell with cramps, bloating, mood swings and a heavy flow. Add a little turmeric to your diet and let its anti-inflammatory properties do its magic.
Anti-inflammatory
Those words are music to any arthritic sufferer’s ears. Curcumin, one of the active ingredients in turmeric, is touted for its pharmaceutical-like abilities. If you have arthritis, gout, or muscle pain, then add a little turmeric to your meals.
Antidepressant
Is there anything this plant can’t do? Apparently, it can help you with your mood, too. The results of a few clinical trials say curcumin is as effective as Prozac in fighting depression.
Turmeric isn’t the cure-all for cancer, obviously. But the plant does have the ability to kill cancer cells, according to several scientific studies.
As a part of diabetes diet, it is suggested to include good amount of protein, fibre, potassium, magnesium and a balance of other essential nutrients. Besides, one must avoid added sugar, trans-fats and high-calorie foods. Traditional spices and herbs are also dubbed to be helpful in managing diabetes. Take turmeric for instance.
Be warned, however: turmeric can cause side effects such as nausea or diarrhea. Check with your doctor before you start a turmeric regimen.
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