Coming from the rhizome (rootstock) of the Curcuma longa plant, turmeric grows in the forests of South and Southeast Asia. Referred to as “Indian saffron” in medieval England, turmeric wasn’t valued for a long time, only later to be considered having amazing health benefits are amazing and as one of the key ingredients in many Asian dishes.
With a peppery, warm and bitter flavor, the mild fragrance of turmeric makes it a national favorite in curry dishes dating back centuries.
Let’s take a quick take on the some of the many high points of turmeric.
Medicinal uses
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Turmeric is extensively used to treat stomach and liver ailments, as well as to heal sores, as turmeric has antimicrobial property.
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Due to its high anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is highly effective in curing rheumatoid arthritis.
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Curcuminoid present in turmeric is as effective as Prozac in dealing with depression and it also helps lower blood glucose levels and reverse insulin resistance.
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Turmeric acts as an anti-diabetic and antioxidant for people with diabetes. It helps in having an improved metabolic function and reduced the risk of plaque expansion in the arteries.
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Contemporary studies state how turmeric is a powerful enemy of cancer. Curcumin has a marked ability to impede cancer cell growth, improve antioxidant levels and the immune system, and destroy cancer cells.
Skin Benefits
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Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness or other skin irritations.
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Because it is antibacterial, it’s great for blemishes, acne and skin balance.
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Turmeric works wonders for the texture of the skin by working as an exfoliant as well as antioxidant.
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Turmeric helps reduce dark circles.
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People with oily skin or acne scars use turmeric on a regular basis for noticeable improvement in the quality of their skin.
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Turmeric fends off free radicals that cause premature aging, and it can also help to correct an uneven skin tone. People using turmeric stop using foundation altogether.
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In addition to being a beauty product, turmeric is also as an all-natural self tanner. Just remember, before you paint yourself in the stuff, know that very few skin tones match turmeric perfectly.
Culinary Uses
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Turmeric is a notable ingredient in most of the curry powder in the market.
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It is mostly used in the form of rhizome powder.
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In some regions, turmeric leaves are used to wrap and cook food because turmeric leaves impart a distinctive flavor to the dish.
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Typically used in its dried, powdered form, turmeric is sometimes used fresh, like ginger in pickles mostly.
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Apart from the traditional use, turmeric is sometimes used as an agent to impart a rich, custard-like yellow color.
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It is mostly used in savory dishes, but is used in some sweet dishes as well.
Besides all these, turmeric is considered auspicious in India and is used in various Hindu ceremonies for millennia, gaining a popular position in Indian weddings and religious ceremonies.
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