Hidden Benefits of Indian Most Common Spice – Turmeric Powder

Turmeric is a product of Curcuma longa, a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the ginger family Zingiberaceae, which is native to tropical South Asia. It is probably the most important spice in Indian dishes. It also called Haldi, Indian Saffron, Curcuma or yellow ginger. It is one of the most studied herbs in science. Turmeric Powder is a bright yellow powder made by dry grinding of mature turmeric rhizomes (underground stems). To make powder, the roots of the plant are boiled for 30-45 minutes, dried in ovens and then ground into a deep orange-yellow powder.

Nutritional Analysis of Curcuma

100 g of spice contains 390 kcal, 10 g total fat, 3 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 0.2 g calcium, 0.26 g phosphorous, 10 mg sodium, 2500 mg potassium, 47.5 mg iron, 0.9 mg thiamine, 0.19 mg riboflavin, 4.8 mg niacin, 50 mg ascorbic acid, 69.9 g total carbohydrates, 21 g dietary fiber and 8 g protein. Curcuma is also a good source of the ω-3 fatty acid and α-linolenic acid.

Consumption and Importance

More than 100 components have been isolated from this spice. The main component of the root is a volatile oil, containing turmerone, and there are other coloring agents called curcuminoids in turmeric. They can be used as a foodstuff, cosmetic, medicine. It lends curry its distinctive yellow color and flavor. It is used as a coloring agent in cheese, butter, and other foods. They can also be used in manufactured food products such as canned beverages, dairy products, baked products, ice cream, yellow cakes, yogurt, orange juice, biscuits, popcorn, sweets, cake icings, cereals, sauces, and gelatins. It has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory conditions, skin diseases, wounds, digestive ailments and liver conditions.

As a Traditional Medicine

In Ayurvedic practices, turmeric has thought to have many medicinal properties including strengthening the overall energy of the body, relieving gas, dispelling worms, improving digestion, regulating menstruation, dissolving gallstones, and relieving arthritis. This can also be using an antiseptic for cuts, burns, and bruises, and as an antibacterial agent. Indians use Curcuma longa, in addition to its Ayurvedic applications, to purify blood and remedy skin conditions.

Health Benefits

1. Fighting inflammation
2. As an antioxidant
3. It protects the heart in various ways
4. Helpful for arthritis
5. The Brain boosting
6. May be helpful for fighting diabetes and cancer
7. It improves Immunity
8. Works as a natural Antiseptic
9. Treats Digestive Disorders

It has many benefits. No doubt about that. This not only makes your life better but also adds flavor to your dishes. Make it a part of your daily diet.