If you are one of those people who still don't know what turmeric is, where it comes from, what its properties are and how to use it, stay tuned. Here we tell you everything you need to know to introduce turmeric into your diet.
What is turmeric and what is it used for?
Its scientific name is curcuma longa and is a tall plant that grows in Asia and Central America and from which the rhizome (root) is used. Most of it is processed to obtain Turmeric powder . This is probably what you have seen in every supermarket and grocery store.
It is a plant of great versatility and is used in different sectors such as medicine, cosmetics, gastronomy and industrial food processing.
It is believed that its origins date back to between 610 BC and 320 BC. At this time it was used as a dye for wool thanks to its intense yellow color. Later it was adopted by Hindu cuisine as a dye. food coloring and flavoring . If you read the ingredients of curry you will see that turmeric is one of its main ingredients.
The treasure of Ayurveda medicine
Briefly summarized, Ayurvedic medicine is a type of holistic medicine (it has a comprehensive view of the body and mind) which has been used in India for more than 5,000 years.
Does emphasis on good health and the prevention and treatment of disease through lifestyle practices (massage, meditation, yoga, change in diet ) as well as the use of herbal remedies.
That being said, you might still be wondering why this plant is classified as a medicinal plant. The reason is because turmeric has all the properties necessary for our body to function perfectly and keep infectious diseases at bay.
Properties and benefits of Turmeric
This spice, also known as yellow gold, is a great source of nutrients and substances such as vitamins C, E and K, niacin, sodium, calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, iron and zinc.
The compounds that give it its great medicinal properties are curcumin, demenoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Thanks to these, it has properties and benefits for the body such as:
- Powerful anti-inflammatory properties
- Stimulates the immune system
- Improves digestion
- Facilitates weight loss
- It has antibacterial properties
- Excellent antioxidant
Contraindications of turmeric
- Drug interactions: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may interfere with some medications, such as blood thinners and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If you are taking any medications, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any turmeric supplements.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to turmeric, especially if they have allergies to ginger, cardamom, or dandelion. If you experience allergy symptoms, stop using it and seek medical attention immediately.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Although it is considered safe when used in cooking, it is recommended to avoid using turmeric supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of information regarding its safety.
- Gallbladder disease: It can increase bile production and may cause problems for people who have gallbladder disease.
- Digestion: This spice can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, flatulence, and heartburn in some people. These side effects can be avoided by taking turmeric with food or in the presence of black pepper.
Recommendations and how to consume it
Like any spice, you can include turmeric in countless recipes. It is most commonly used in Indian cuisine. However, You can add it to your stews, soups, creams and sauces . I even use it in sautéed vegetables.
Another of its common uses is in infusion . This is one of the most effective ways to benefit from the properties of turmeric. Especially for weight loss.
You can also add it to your favorite hot or cold drinks and even prepare the famous Golden Milk. I personally like to add it to my coffee every morning.
To optimize the absorption of turmeric in our body, consume it with powdered ginger. black pepper powder and a fatty agent (such as olive or coconut oil)
Turmeric with pepper
Curcumin , the active compound in turmeric, is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. On the other hand, black pepper contains piperine, a compound that increases the bioavailability of curcumin.
By combining turmeric with black pepper, the absorption of curcumin in the body is increased, which increases its effectiveness.
Some studies have suggested that take turmeric with pepper It may help reduce joint pain and inflammation, improve heart health, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve memory and cognitive performance, and may also help prevent or treat certain types of cancer.
Turmeric and pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is recommended to be cautious when taking any supplements, including turmeric, as there is not enough research on its safety during this time. It is advisable to avoid taking it during the first 3 months of pregnancy as this is a critical period.
However, you can consult with your doctor to verify whether or not you can take it, as we have said before there is not enough research to reach a clear result.
Some recipes for taking turmeric
- Chicken curry: A curry paste can be made using onion, garlic, ginger, tomato, turmeric, cumin, coriander and other spices. It is mixed with chicken cubes and cooked in a pot. Serve with basmati rice.
- Vegetable soup: A vegetable soup can be made using onion, garlic, ginger, carrot, potato, pumpkin, turmeric, cumin and coriander. Cook everything in a pot until the vegetables are soft.
- Turmeric Tofu : Marinate cubes of tofu in a mixture of turmeric, coriander, garlic, ginger, lemon juice and olive oil. Cook in a pan until golden. Serve with rice or as a side dish.
- Chickpea curry: Cook chickpeas with turmeric, cumin, coriander, garlic, ginger and other spices. Serve with rice or naan bread.
- Turmeric fried rice: Cook white or basmati rice with a little turmeric and onion. Fry in a pan with olive oil, add vegetables such as carrots, peas and scrambled eggs.
IN CONCLUSION
If you are thinking about changing your diet to a healthier one, if you want to lose weight, if you have intestinal problems or if you simply want to include in your diet an ingredient that, in addition to color, aroma and flavor, provides great benefits and properties to your body, Turmeric is your ideal ingredient.
