Tuesday, February 17, 2015

TURMERIC

For my first entry back, I've decided to cover one of my favorite plants/spices to cook with: TURMERIC! I mix a bit of this golden powder in with nearly every dish I make, especially stir-fries. Because it's virtually tasteless, it's easy to add to anything--just as long as you're ok with your food having a slightly yellow tint.

When I went to research this particular plant, I found that there are many different types of plants that can go by the name turmeric; so I referenced the book where I originally read about it--Medicinal Herbs, A Beginner's Guide by Rosemary Gladstar (highly recommended)--and found that what I'm looking to research goes by the name curcuma longa.

Turmeric is native to Indonesia and southern India, which means it may be a difficult plant to nurture in colder climates. Gladstar, however, says that turmeric can thrive in a potted situation, so long as the pot is a large one. Be sure to keep the growing turmeric in a sunny window, shallowly buried in rich, moist soil.

Health benefits found in TURMERIC include (but are not limited to):

  • Remedy for jaundice and other liver problems
  • Eases gallbladder disorders
  • Powerful anti-inflammatory
  • Stronger acting than hydrocortisone, according to Medicinal Herbs
  • Protects against Alzheimer's disease
  • Prevents and can put a halt to cancers:
    • Colon (with the help of onions)
    • Prostate (with the help of cauliflower)
    • Leukemia in children
  • Regulates blood pressure
  • Keeps a person regular (personal findings)


Eating foods with turmeric cooked into them is an absolute joy. My body can always feel it when I feed it something this nourishing!

You can find TURMERIC in the spice aisle of any grocery store, though I'm sure there are more potent options over others. As always, be sure to do your research before seeking out more potent options, as they may have a more dramatic effect on your body. Turmeric, however, is considered a reliably safe spice to ingest (just don't eat copious amounts of it in one sitting).

If I've missed something or you have a question, please feel free to contact me, either through the comments section below or facebook. I'm always happy to continue the discussion! I will, of course, be adding to this as I learn more. Have a great night!

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