Hello guys!
I’m back with another important spice that you absolutely need to add to your spice drawer if you haven’t already! It is the GOLDEN SPICE!!
Have you heard of turmeric before? I feel like turmeric has become super popular over the past year but has been an overlooked spice for so soon long. It has so many health benefits that you wouldn’t even believe!
What is it?
Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant and is also part of the ginger family. It has a peppery, warm and bitter flavor profile and is mostly used in asian and indian cooking. You might not know this but turmeric is a main ingredient found in curry. It is also a natural food coloring found in mustard, butter, and cheeses which give those items their yellow/orange color.
History
Turmeric is native to Indonesia and South India where its been harvested for more than 5,000 years. It served as an important role in traditional cultures throughout the east for medicinal purposes as well. Much of its recent popularity in Western culture has been due to its research for its therapeutic properties.
Benefits of Turmeric
Prevents cancer: It has been proven to prevent prostate cancer, stop existing growths of cancer cells, and also destroy present cancer cells. Turmeric has been found to best protect against radiation induced tumors.
Relieves arthritis: Turmeric has very high anti-inflammatory properties that treat rheumatoid arthritis and even osteoarthritis. Its antioxidant properties destroy free radicals that damage your body cells.
Controls diabetes: Turmeric moderates your insulin levels and improves glucose control which then increases the effects of your diabetes medication.
Immunity booster: The antibacterial/antiviral/anti-fungal properties strengthen your immune system and can also lessen cold and flu symptoms ( Golden Milk recipe below ).
Heals wounds/skin conditions: It is a natural antiseptic/antibacterial agent which acts as a disinfectant when sprinkled on cuts and burns. It has also been found to treat psoriasis or other inflammatory skin conditions because it can help repair damaged skin.
Weight management: Turmeric can increase the flow of your poop by stimulating your gallbladder, which makes it great for IBS. It also reduces bloating and gas (ALWAYS A PLUS) and helps breakdown fat in your body quicker. Adding one teaspoon of turmeric powder to every meal is the perfect amount to get your digestive system working right!
Prevents Alzheimers: It supports overall brain activity by aiding and removing plaque build up in your brain and improving the flow of oxygen which keeps all your brain cells alive.
Prevents liver disease: Turmeric is a natural liver detoxifier because it increases production of vital enzymes that liver detoxifies blood with.
Turmeric is also known to help with sleep disorders. Drinking a cup of Golden Milk before bed can put you right to sleep!
How to buy and store Turmeric:
-buy organic because it has not been irradiated
-spice bottle needs to be kept in a cool and dark place with an air tight seal
-fresh turmeric can be kept in the fridge for a couple of weeks
How to use Turmeric:
-add raw pieces to smoothies
-add curry to dishes like stir fry or fried rice
-add to soups like chicken noodle or carrot & ginger
-add to orange juice
-wellness shots
-golden milk ( recipe below )
Golden Milk Recipe ( adapted from the skinny confidential )
1-1/12 cup of almond milk
2-3 teaspoons of turmeric ( or as much as you like )
1 teaspoon raw local honey
1 teaspoon cinnamon
A few sprinkles of *black pepper ( helps with absorption )
1/4 fresh ginger, peeled
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Directions: blend ingredients besides the raw honey in blender ( I use a Nutribullet ). Add to a small sauce pan & heat for 5 minutes over low to medium heat until it’s very hot but not boiling. Add raw honey right before you drink it.
*The health benefits of turmeric are further enhanced by adding black pepper to it. Research shows that black pepper contains piperine, a compound that helps the body absorb curcumin better.
So go get GOLDEN and add some TURMERIC to your life .. I promise you’ll thank me!