Turmeric or yellow ginger can be found in nearly every household in Asia. It is referred to as the “Queen of spices”.
Turmeric has a peppery, warm and bitter flavor with a fragrance slightly reminiscent of orange and ginger. Turmeric is a close relative of ginger, however, they both have different properties, colors, flavors and effects. And while it’s best known as one of the ingredients for curry dishes, it has also significantly stayed true to its title, the Queen of spices, because of its powerful healing properties.
Benefits
1. Brew Turmeric Tea for the Common Cold
Instead of eating medicines every time you catch a cold, make a turmeric tea! Since turmeric has anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties, mix it with honey and milk to help soothe your throat.
2. Add it to Your Home-Cooked Meals
If your family are new to turmeric, use it as additional seasoning to your scrambled eggs, soups, or toss it with roasted vegetables. Add black pepper to your mix to make the most out of your turmeric.
3. Refreshing Smoothie
Blend in fresh pineapple, banana, coconut, turmeric and chia seeds for a healthy and refreshing drink. This is definitely a must try!
4. As Part of Your Beauty Regime:
Combine 1 tsp honey, 2 tbsp yogurt or milk with a few teaspoons of turmeric in a bowl. Mix until it forms a smooth paste and apply on freshly washed skin. Leave the mask on for 20 minutes, then wash off. You might notice some hints of yellow on your skin. Don’t worry, after multiple washes it will go away. ?
Making and Storing Your Own Turmeric Powder
To make your own fresh turmeric powder follow these three easy steps: boil, dry and grind.
Boil the rhizome for about 45 mins.
Dry it under the sun for 10 – 15 days. The ideal moisture content in the final dried product should be around 5-10%.
Grind the dried up rhizome into a fine consistency. Just keep in mind that the rhizomes are dried well enough to be able to proceed to this last step.
And that’s it! You have your own turmeric powder ready to use!
Turmeric powder should be kept in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dark and dry place. On the other hand, fresh turmeric rhizome should be kept in the refrigerator. To help extend the shelf life of your turmeric rhizome, store it in the BioFresh DrySafe compartment of your Liebherr refrigerator.
The Healing Power of Turmeric
For nearly 5000 years, it has been cultivated not just a spice for food, but also as a medicinal herb especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine and the classical Indian Medical System. While it has been widely used in Asia, turmeric has only recently gained popularity in Western cultures. Western scientists have discovered that in addition to its strong antioxidant properties, it has also anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties.
Studies have shown that the curcumin substance found in turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also a good source of vitamin B6, dietary fiber, potassium and so much more. Turmeric is naturally rich in antioxidants which protects the body from free radicals that may lead to cell damage. It also supports vital blood and liver functions, ensures healthy joints and improves skin condition.