This species with a yellow color and very intense aroma is obtained by grinding the rhizomes of turmeric.
Turmeric is a plant native to South Asia , where it has been used for thousands of years to make curries, chutneys, marinades and sauces. And to dye fabrics, leathers, etc.
In addition to all these uses, medicinal properties have been attributed to turmeric since ancient times.
Turmeric contains zingiberene , an essential oil that promotes the segregation of gastric juices, helps improve digestion, prevents the formation of ulcers and also helps expel gas and avoid colic.
Most essential oils present in turmeric have great antifungal and antimicrobial power.
Curcumin , which is a phytochemical with antioxidant properties found naturally in turmeric, has been shown to be vital in preventing numerous diseases and health problems.
Thus, curcumin is essential for the protection and correct drainage of the liver and for the emptying of the gallbladder.
It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and is also very important for preventing skin, duodenal, breast and colon cancer. As well as to help the body overcome the side effects of medications to treat cancer.
In turmeric we find other compounds that stimulate the nervous system, and act as natural antidepressants, increasing the levels of serotonin, also called the mood and pleasure hormone.
How to include turmeric in your daily diet?
When cooking rice
You can add it as a spice to rice to give it striking colors, it is ideal in paellas and rice with chicken.
In sauces and stews
Another way to use it is to apply it as a condiment to stews. In addition, its spicy flavor gives sauces a more intense color.
Applying curry
You have probably already tried curry chicken or curry rice. In any case, when you apply curry powder you are already consuming turmeric, since it is this ingredient that gives it the intense color it has.
As a coloring in smoothies, desserts and creams
By applying a small amount to smoothies, desserts or creams you can add color with an almost unnoticed flavor, do not apply more than a teaspoon to dessert.
Include turmeric in your daily dishes and remember not to abuse it, the recommended daily dose according to the WHO is 0.1 mg/Kg.
See also " Spices for better digestion "
