Ten Tantalizing Reasons to Love Turmeric

words: Jasmin Pedretti 

Turmeric. Is it worth all the hype, or is it just a trendy fad loved by hipsters who want to spice up their lattes?

We break down why this yellow herb is the real deal; the extraordinary benefits and the sneaky trick to make it more effective.

It originates in China and is rooted in thousands of years of Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Basically, the herb is ancient, and we are only just starting to recognize its potential. 

If you want to be “that” person, call it by its scientific name, Curcuma Longa.

It will be sure to impress… no one ever, but sometimes it’s cool to have different names for things.

What might be more likely to impress is knowing what gives the spice it’s golden hue. Curcumin is Turmeric’s primary active ingredient that is behind the color and most of its health benefits. The curcumin, along with the herbs other constituents, work together to achieve results. Therefore, it’s much preferred by the human body than chemical-based medicine.

For all its magic, Turmeric’s bioavailability is quite low.

This means that when consumed, the substance struggles to enter the bodies circulation and have an active effect. HOWEVER, the remedy is a sprinkling of pepper. Not only will this enhance Turmeric’s bioavailability by up to 2000%, but it will also add a subtle earthy spice that will leave your taste buds very happy.

Everyone knows Turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties, but there is so much more to this aromatic condiment. There are myriads of health benefits.

Here are ten tantalizing reasons to love Turmeric:

1. The warming and bitter effect stimulates blood circulation 

2. Liver protection

3. High in iron, one teaspoon of ground Turmeric has 1.65 milligrams of iron which supplies 9 per cent of a woman’s and 23 per cent of a man’s iron quota for the day 

4. High in antioxidants

5. Decreases cholesterol 

6. Assists with settling down the inflammation associated with asthma 

7. Is a potent antagonist of numerous cancer-causing cells 

8. Regulates blood sugar 

9. Supports neurological, cardiovascular and immune system 

10. There is even evidence suggesting that Turmeric may prevent replication of H.I.V.1!

Sounds pretty healthy, right?

Good news is, you don’t need to lash out on an overpriced beverage at a trendy Melbourne café, to get your Turmeric on. There are numerous culinary uses. It can be added to curries, soups, or even a poached egg.

If a Turmeric beverage is more your thing, here is a recipe you can make yourself and enjoy the liquid gold in the comfort of your own home.

Simple Turmeric Tonic Recipe:

 (makes two serves) 

Ingredients:

3 cups of boiling water 

¼ tsp of ground Turmeric

½ tsp of ground Ginger or 1/4 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

½ tsp organic Apple Cider Vinegar

½ tsp of honey 

Splash of lemon juice

Method:

Add all the ingredients together and stir.

Allow to infuse for at least 3 minutes and enjoy!