Turmeric, commonly known as haldi in India is a yellow spice. It comes from the turmeric plant, scientifically called curcuma longa. Curcumin is its active compound that gives turmeric its medicinal properties.
Commonly used in cooking, especially in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, turmeric is used to add color and flavor to the dishes. But that is not all. Turmeric is a commonly used spice in dishes because it has multiple health benefits. Before diving into its health benefits let’s first take a general overview of turmeric.
In addition to its health benefits and culinary uses, turmeric is also associated with religion and is used in religious ceremonies in some cultures. It is also used as a natural yellow dye.
History of turmeric:
Originated in South Asia, turmeric has a long history dating back to ancient times of India. Due to its medicinal properties it has been used in the ayurveda system of medicines. Here is a general overview of turmeric came into existence as widely used spice in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines:
Ancient roots:
The use of turmeric began as a medicine 4000 years ago in the ancient Ayurveda system of medicine. It was used as a remedy for various ailments because of its medicinal properties. It was used to treat digestive problems, skin diseases, wounds and more.
Cultural significance:
Turmeric holds prominent significance in Indian culture, especially in Indian culture. The hindu community of India and all around the world uses turmeric or haldi in religious ceremonies, weddings and festivals. Applying haldi or turmeric on to-be bride and groom is a pre-wedding ritual across India. Using turmeric in auspicious rituals is a symbolism of purification and protection.
Spice trading:
Turmeric has always been an essential spice and traders from the Middle East, Europe and beyond highly sought after it. Turmeric was an essential spice that was traded along with other highly sought after spices through the Silk Road. That is how it spread across the world making it a widely used spice for cooking in modern times.
Medicinal Uses:
With the multiple health benefits it is used as a natural remedy not just in India but is also a part of Chinese and Middle Eastern medicine. Its use as a medicine is spread across the parts of Asia, Afric and eventually Europe.
Western adoption:
With the spread of turmeric spice across the world, they adopted turmeric in Europe as a substitute for expensive saffron. Its medical properties started benefitting people across the world.
Modern Research:
Modern research witnessed and confirmed health benefits of turmeric. The active compound curcumin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties making it a health supplement.
Importance of turmeric:
Turmeric is a significant spice not just used for cooking but as other options too. Here are some of the reasons that make turmeric a coveted spice:
Culinary use:
Of course, turmeric is a household spice, especially in South Asia and Middle East countries. You would not find any home in India without this spice. Turmeric is used to add flavor, color, and aroma to the dishes. People use turmeric in curries, soups, stews, rice etc. it is a versatile spice used in endless dishes to make them a blend of flavors.
Health benefits:
Curcumin in turmeric is a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps in reducing inflammation, improves heart health and aids digestion. It even boosts the immune system and is a popular remedy for skin treatment.
Traditional medicine:
Turmeric is a traditional medicine used in ancient medicine systems like Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese System and Unnani medicine. It has gained popularity as a home remedy as well because of its traditional value.
Cultural and religious significance:
Turmeric is associated with culture. Its religious significance is such that there is a whole ritual named “haldi” in Indian weddings. The ritual involves applying turmeric paste on to-be bride and groom before their wedding. It is a symbol of purification that is why it holds such significance in Indian weddings, especially Hindu weddings.
Dyeing and textiles:
Turmeric is a natural dye. Textile industry uses turmeric to dye fabrics in yellow color. In many cultures it is a ritual to dye ceremonial clothes in turmeric/haldi.
Cosmetic and skincare products:
Turmeric makes a significant contribution in the cosmetics industry. Many skincare products use turmeric in it because it has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. You can find moisturizers, lotions, face masks and other beauty products. Applying such products with turmeric in it promotes healthy skin, reduces acne and even promotes a fair complexion. People often use turmeric paste to apply on their face as a home remedy to promote healthy skin.
Types of Turmeric:
Turmeric is found in various forms depending on their characteristics, flavors and uses. Here is a list of types of turmeric:
Common turmeric:
Common turmeric also known as yellow turmeric or turmeric is the most commonly used type of turmeric. You can find it in yellow-orange color. Its common name is curcuma longa. It has a warm and earthy flavor. This type of turmeric is used in the kitchen and as a traditional medicine. One also finds this turmeric as a part of beauty and cosmetic products.
Wild turmeric:
Wild turmeric is also known as kasturi manjal in the region of South India. Its scientific name is curcuma aromatica. You will find that wild turmeric has a stronger aroma and a different flavor than your regular turmeric. It is a significant part of beauty and cosmetic products and is widely used in skincare products.
White turmeric:
White turmeric is another type of turmeric and its scientific name is curcuma zedoaria. It has a pale yellowish-white color and a mild flavor. Widely used in Indonesia and Thailand, white turmeric is a major part of Southeast Asian cuisine. White turmeric has multiple medicinal properties and has been a part of the traditional medicine system for centuries.
Mango ginger:
Never heard about mango ginger? Have you tried chutneys and pickles from South Asian cuisines? Yes, mango ginger also called curcuma amada is used in dishes like chutneys and pickles. Mango ginger is a type of turmeric that resembles ginger in appearance and has a mango-like aroma and flavor.
Black Turmeric:
Black turmeric or curcuma caesia has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which makes it a part of remedies used in ancient medicine systems both ayurvedic and traditional.
Javanese Turmeric:
Primarily found in Indonesia, javanese turmeric is scientifically called curcuma xanthorrhiza. It is widely used in Indonesian cuisines and is also used as a herbal remedy.
Turmeric flower:
Turmeric flower or curcuma Aeruginosa is a type of turmeric which has ornamental value. It is pink in color that makes it a great option to use as ornaments.
Health Benefits of Turmeric:
Turmeric is known for its health benefits. Here are a few of them:
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties:
Curcumin is the active compound of turmeric and is an anti-inflammatory agent as well. It helps to reduce inflammation in the body. It inhibits inflammatory pathways easing inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to various chronic diseases. Anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric help to prevent the risk factors of diseases like heart disease, cancer and metabolic syndrome.
Turmeric possesses antioxidant properties:
Antioxidant properties of turmeric help to neutralize free radicals protecting cells from damage. It not only promotes overall health but longevity as well.
Turmeric promotes joint health:
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory joint issues. It is also beneficial to reduce pain, stiffness and swelling. Using turmeric powder as a supplement and drinking it in milk is a home remedy to reduce joint pain or pains because of injuries.
Turmeric improves heart health:
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation which is associated with heart issues. It lowers cholesterol levels and also prevents the oxidation of bad cholesterol, also called LDL. Turmeric’s medicinal properties help to reduce the risk of heart diseases and improve cardiovascular health.
Turmeric improves digestive health:
Turmeric aids digestive health by stimulating bile production, improving digestion and alleviating symptoms of indigestion, bloating and gas. Its anti-inflammatory properties also give relief from inflammatory bowel diseases.
Turmeric supports immune system:
Turmeric supports your immune system by modulating immune responses and enhancing immune cell function. A strong immune system helps the body to defend itself against infections. It also helps to promote overall immune health.
Important Considerations:
Turmeric is a safe spice for all, but it is better to consider a few things before you decide to incorporate it into your diet:
- Using turmeric as a spice in your dishes is the safest way to incorporate it in your daily routine. Make sure you use just a pinch of turmeric in the dishes to add flavor and color and also get its medicinal advantages.
- Even if you are drinking turmeric milk or tea, just a pinch is enough for experiencing its benefits. Large amounts of turmeric can lead to digestive issues like diarrhea, bloating, upset stomach, dizziness and headaches.
- Consult a dietician to incorporate turmeric in better ways in your life.
- While applying turmeric to your face, make a paste of it by using other skin friendly ingredients as well like yogurt/dahi, besan/gram flour etc to get better results.
- Turmeric is ideally used in the form of powder in culinary and otherwise. Better to buy turmeric powder for regular use.
- For wound healing you can apply a paste of turmeric on the wound. Make a paste of turmeric by adding it in warm water and then gently apply it on the wound and cover it with a bandage.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. What is turmeric called in India?
Ans. Turmeric is called haldi in India.
Q. Is turmeric safe?
Ans. Turmeric is usually safe but people who have diabetes, bleeding disorders, gallbladder problems. People with a medical history should consult a medical expert before inculcating turmeric in their daily lives.
Q. Is turmeric good for skin?
Ans. Turmeric is an effective remedy for skin. You can even find beauty and cosmetic products which have turmeric in it because of its skin healing properties. You can also apply turmeric powder’s paste on your face as a mask. Or use turmeric face-wash, moisturizer, masks etc.
Q. Can I apply turmeric powder on my face?
Ans. Applying turmeric powder on your face can be an effective remedy to get healthy skin. Use turmeric powder to make a paste and evenly apply it on your face. Leave the paste for 10-15 minutes and then rinse your face and you will experience healthy skin.