I wonder if the archaeologists who discovered traces of Turmeric in pots dating back to 2500BC were as excited as I was the day that Picture This (a plant identification app) identified a beautiful plant growing on our property.
Common Turmeric.
I already knew Turmeric was loaded with health benefits, but I wasn't aware of just how many. In the past, I had purchased ground Turmeric from the spice section, or in bulk. It was always a dark orange color.
When I dug up this first root, that's when I realized how different Turmeric could be. I noticed the root didn't have the dark orange coloring I had expected, and learned that Turmeric becomes more orange as it oxidizes, but should be more of a GOLD color. Which is where Golden Milk derives it's name from.
This made so much sense to me! And explained why that dark orange Turmeric I had been forcing down all these years tasted so bitter. My fresh Turmeric smelt appetizing, even after I dried my first batch.
Turmeric comes in three different varieties.
Curcuma longa (Yellow Turmeric), Curcuma aromatica (Black Turmeric) and Curcuma zedoaria (White Turmeric)
All three varieties carry similar traits. Yellow Turmeric has been found to have the highest concentration of Curcumin at 73%, and is the most common form of Turmeric used.
Medicinal use of Turmeric emerged around 500BC. Since then, modern scientists have have identified chemical compounds in the Turmeric rhizome to support it's medicinal benefits.
Traditionally used in Ayurvedic healing- a traditional Hindu system of medicine based on the idea of balance in bodily systems using diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing- it was commonly used to purify blood and skin. It was also used to treat epilepsy, diarrhea, and urinary infections.
Scientists have identified many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory chemical compounds in the Turmeric rhizome. Curcumin is a chemical that blocks cyclooxygenase-2, an enzyme that aids in the growth of many tumors, making it ideal for any diet.
Animal studies have shown curcumin may help inhibit spread of certain breast cancer and block the development of skin cancer. It's also a very beneficial food for our pets. The receive the same benefits from the root of this amazing plant as we do! I know Jyn and Solo love it when it's powdered up.
Research is showing that Turmeric may block the development of skin cancer, be beneficial for Alzheimer's patients, cystic fibrosis patients, and help prevent hemorrhagic strokes.
Turmeric is full of other necessary nutrients as well. It is a great source of protein, dietary fiber, niacin, and Vitamin C. When I was researching this wonder plant, I was most shocked about the high source of Vitamin C. Turmeric is a great for overall immune system support.
My morning Turmeric Bomb
1 tsp Turmeric Powder
1 T Apple Cider Vinegar
1 T Honey
1/4 C Water
1 drop Lemon Vitality
1 drop Lemon Vitality
Get Turmeric, delivered straight to your door, in my Shop!
What are your favorite Turmeric recipes?
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