Natural plants and plant products have been used throughout human history for various purposes. Some of the plants from which these natural products are derived are many years old. Many of these products are produced as a result of secondary metabolites as a natural defence mechanism against infections. One such golden spice is Turmeric!
In recent times turmeric has been trending for all the right reasons. But grandmothers have been using this spice for many years. In fact, they have been urging us to brew a pot of “magic tea” to cure headache or rocky tummy. Not just in beverages or food, some even dab the yellow paste onto burns and scrapes, or even to cure a cold.
Studies have shown curcumin, a compound in turmeric contains very powerful antioxidants that essentially have medicinal benefits and have been used as home remedies for curing irritable stomach, relieving achy joints and more. Scientists also believe long term usage of turmeric can help fight diseases like cancer, diabetes and arthritis. No wonder it is popularly also known as an anti-inflammatory food!
Turmeric has been used in Asia for a very long time. History shows that by 800 AD, the cultivation and trade of this golden spice had spread across most parts of Asia, including China and much to our surprise also Africa! By the 18th century, it became increasingly popular and it spread to other tropical regions like Jamaica.
Before it was used in food for flavour and its distinct yellow colour, it was used as a natural dye for skin and clothing. It is often referred to as “Indian Saffron” because of its deep yellow-orange colour.
What is Curcumin?
Turmeric is made up of a bioactive compound, collectively it is known as curcuminoids. Curcumin is the primary curcuminoid and is the most active ingredient in Turmeric. Scientific research shows curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties.
This means, it has the ability to increase the number of antioxidants produced by the human body by 3%. Many studies have supported the evidence that it is curcumin that has a wide range of health benefits and can boost the immune system of an individual if consumed regularly.
Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin
1. Strengthens the Immune System
A strong immune system is quintessential for your body, especially after the Covid scare across the globe. It helps body fight viruses, bacteria and foreign body. Studies have shown that turmeric contains, anti-microbial, anti-viral properties which in turn help support a healthy immune system.2. Eases Arthritis Pain
The anti-inflammatory benefit of this spice has shown to ease pain caused due to numerous forms of arthritis. Joint pain can be very worrisome, causing swelling in joints and restricting movements. The powerful properties of turmeric reduce joint pain, tenderness of tissues and cartilage and inflammation in general.
3. Good for Skin
Turmeric when rubbed on the skin has antiseptic benefits, in olden days, it was applied on cuts, burns and even deep wounds. Studies have shown curcumin has the property to stop heavy bleeding thereby reducing the risk of excessive damage to the skin.
Waigaon Turmeric Powder- Local Sparrow
At Local Sparrow, we believe in a commitment of bringing to you curated spices, from farm to your table. Waigaon Turmeric is handpicked from the farms in Waigaon region in Maharashtra.Grown for generations by people of Waigaon, this turmeric is considered to be the best turmeric available. With a high curcumin value of more than 5% (curcumin of most turmeric available in the market is 1-2% at best), dark mustard yellow color with a distinct hue and fragrance, Waigaon turmeric got the coveted GI tag in 2016.
Turmeric as you have read in this blog has many invaluable properties that makes it a users’ choice in most food items and for medicinal uses as well.
What are you waiting for? Order your golden spice today!
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