Tumeric provides a variety of health benefits. It is primarily associated with curry dishes, and is typically one of the main spices used in Indian cuisine. However, do you know the health benefits associated with this vital root?

The bright yellow color of turmeric is from curcumin, the active ingredient that comes from the root of turmeric and is often used to add color to foods and makeup.

Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is most commonly associated with antioxidant defense against free radicals. It naturally supports cleansing and helps soothe the stomach, and is an antioxidant known for supporting digestive, joint and liver health.

It acts as a free radical scavenger in the body, protecting it from oxidative stress. It also supports healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range when paired with healthy diet and exercise.

There are a few different sources for turmeric—mainly including food, drinks and supplements—as well as several options for incorporating it into your diet.

Turmeric powder can be easily added to sautéed and steamed vegetables, dips, soups, rice dishes and more for a kick of flavor and bright color.

Turmeric tea has gained popularity in Japan over the last decade, and that popularity is now spreading across the world as more people are looking for natural alternatives when possible.

You can add turmeric to nearly anything besides sweets for more zest, flavor and color. Here are the top 10 uses for turmeric:

10 Uses for Turmeric

1Smoothies

Add one teaspoon for a subtle flavor kick or two teaspoons for more intense flavor. For higher absorption, add coconut oil as well.

2Rice dishes

Add 1/2 teaspoon to water when cooking rice for a nice pop of color.

3Detoxifying drink

Add one teaspoon of ground turmeric to four cups of boiling water, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes. Strain into a cup, and add honey or lemon to taste for a delicious, nutritious drink.

4 Mac & cheese

Stir in 1/2 teaspoon to the cheese sauce for either homemade or boxed varieties for a healthier option.

5Teas

Add 1/4 teaspoon to your mug before adding the water and tea bag. You can also simmer turmeric with milk and honey for a more earthy beverage.

6Pancakes

Add 1/2 teaspoon to dry pancake mix for healthier, brighter pancakes.

7Hummus topper

Mix 1/4 teaspoon with 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds and sprinkle over hummus for a delicious crunch.

8Yogurt bowl

Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh turmeric, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, a pinch of sea salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to plain Greek yogurt for a more savory flavor.

9Marinades

Use freshly grated turmeric root in marinades for chicken, fish or beef. Add 1 teaspoon for a burst of flavor and color.

10Egg dishes

Add 1 teaspoon to scrambled eggs, frittatas or quiche to enhance the color of the eggs and kick the flavor up a notch. If you or your family are new to turmeric, this is a great tip to try because the color is familiar and the flavor is subtle.

To get the most out of turmeric, add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper for every 1/4 cup of turmeric, which improves the bioavailability. Ginger also supports your body’s ability to absorb turmeric, so including both in a tea is a great idea.

Turmeric can stain, so make sure to soak and clean your pots and pans after cooking with it.

If you’re looking for other innovative ways to use turmeric, like as a non-toxic food dye, check out this post!

A word of caution: Consuming excess turmeric can cause stomach upset. Avoid consuming if you are pregnant or if you have bile duct obstruction, gallstones, hyperacidity or stomach ulcers.

 

 

Resources:

• webmd.com
• mindbodygreen.com
• today.com