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Botanical name
Curcuma longa
Description
Turmeric is a flowering plant of the ginger family, the roots of which are used in cooking. Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It is used fresh or boiled in water and dried. The golden-yellow color of turmeric is due to its curcumin content, a naturally occurring compound that is found in turmeric.
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Beta-carotene
- Calcium
- Copper
- Iron
- Manganese
- Niacin
- Potassium
- Zinc
Tumeric contains more than 300 components.
- Phytochemical components: diarylheptanoids, numerous curcuminoids, such as curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin.
- 34 essential oils are present in turmeric, among which are turmerone, germacrone, atlantone, and zingiberene.
Potential Health Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and helps with pain and arthritis.
- Helps with menopause symptoms
- Reduces cholesterol and triglycerides
- Curcumin can increase brain levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, (BDNF), therefore, it may be effective in delaying or even reversing many brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function.
- Lowering blood sugar
- Lowering blood pressure
Note: Excessive doses may also cause altered heartbeat, delusion, mild fever, upset stomach or kidney stones, exacerbate gallbladder problems, worsen acid-reflux, heartburn symptoms, worsen arthritis symptoms, or cause skin rash.
Pregnant women should avoid taking large amounts of turmeric. Turmeric at supplement doses may promote menstruation or stimulate the uterus enough to put the pregnancy at risk.
Quick Tip
The curcumin in turmeric is more readily absorbed when combined with black pepper.
Flavor Profile
Bitter, pepper-like, earthy.
Background and History
Turmeric has been used in Asia for thousands of years and is a major part of Ayurveda, Siddha medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine.
Popular Uses
- Most turmeric is used in the form of rhizome powder to impart a golden yellow color.
- It is used in many products such as canned beverages, baked products, dairy products, ice cream, yogurt, yellow cakes, orange juice, biscuits, popcorn color, cereals, sauces, and gelatin.
- It is a principal ingredient in curry powders.
- Used widely as a spice in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking.
- The Moroccan spice mix ras el hanout typically includes turmeric.
- Used to make “golden milk”, a hot beverage that is made with milk.