TURMERIC

TURMERIC

Most people know Turmeric as the spice that gives curry its yellow colour. Recent studies have shown the science behind why so many cultures use the versatile spice to benefit their health. The compounds that make turmeric so healthy are called curcuminoids (curcumin).

Turmeric has been used in most parts of Asia for thousands of years. It is used as a major part of Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.

“In Ayurvedic practices, turmeric has been used as an attempted treatment for a variety of internal disorders, such as indigestion, throat infections, common colds, or liver ailments, as well as topically, to cleanse wounds or treat skin sores.” – HealthLine.com

It is also a staple within Eastern India and the plant is used as one of the nine components of navapatrika, an important part of Indian worship.

The most common health benefit turmeric has shown is its strong medical property to aid inflammation. (And yes, I’m sorry if you hear me go on about foods and inflammation, it’s a topic I really like!).

Here are a few reasons why you might want to add that extra little bit of turmeric in your winter soup, curry or even latte!

-       Natural Anti-Inflammatory

-       Increases the bodies capacity for antioxidants

-       Has been linked to Improved Brain Funciton (healthline.com)

-       Aids in the prevention of chronic diseases

-       Boosts immune system

I often add turmeric to roasted veggies and soups, I always put it in my curries and now with this cooler weather I might have a homemade turmeric latte instead of a second coffee!

TURMERIC LATTES – AKA “Golden Milk”

2 cups of unsweetened almond milk

1 heaped tsp of turmeric
1 tsp coconut oil
1 tsp rice malt syrup (honey)
½ tsp cinnamon
sprinkle of pepper

I like to make mine over the stove, just warm the milk in a small saucepan then add all other ingredients and wait for it to dissolve! Otherwise you can do it with the kettle (but we don’t have one!). If you do it this way you wont need as much almond milk. Simply put all dry ingredients in a mug and add boiling water just to cover. You will need to give it a good stir! Add in honey and coconut oil, continue to stir then top with almond milk.