Turmeric

Turmeric is derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=78 The root has an orange colored flesh, and a strong brown skin. A member of the ginger family, it is most commonly found in grocery stores, as a dried and ground spice. India, Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Taiwan, Haiti and Jamaica are all leaders in commercial production and export of turmeric. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=78 Its flavor combines a peppery, bitter, and buttery taste and is best known for its role in curry recipes. It also has a very distinct bright yellow color, and because of the richness of the color is commonly used as food coloring for cheese and mustards. Turmeric creates an aroma that is a blend of orange and ginger scents.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=78 Also known as Indian saffron, turmeric is known to increase in flavor as it is cooked, so using it sparingly is recommended. A popular ingredient for Middle Eastern and Asian dishes, it compliments poultry such as chicken, turkey and duck, as well as rice and salad dressings. Dry mustard can be used to substitute turmeric in recipes in the equal amounts. Turmeric can also be used as a substitute for saffron to achieve a desired color, but will not offer a similar taste. http://homecooking.about.com/od/foodfactsheets/a/turmericstorage.htm

For more than 4000 years,http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/turmeric-000277.htm cultures have been utilizing turmeric to heal and treat ailments. It can be dried and made into capsules, teas, or liquid extracts and taken by mouth, or made into a paste and used directly on the skin. http://nccam.nih.gov/health/turmeric/ Studies have shown that the consumption of turmeric has shown to have effects on the following ailments.

• In Germany, turmeric has been approved to treat those suffering from indigestion. It helps to reduce the gas and bloating that causes discomfort to those with digestive disorders. Some believe that the curcumin found in turmeric increases the gall bladders bile production which aids the digestive process. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/turmeric-000277.htm

• People using Ayurvedic (a formula of herbs and minerals containing turmeric) in a study found relief from pain associated with osteoarthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are thought to have relieved the symptoms, however it is unknown if it is the primary cause of pain relief.http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/turmeric-000277.htm

• Evidence from studies relating to cancer and animal test subjects suggest that the curcumin found in turmeric can possibly kill or prevent cancers such as breast, colon, prostate or skin. Curcumin restricts the vessels that are responsible for supplying cancerous tumors, therefor preventing its growth. Also as an antioxidant, curcumin protects cells. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/turmeric-000277.htm

• Also in scientific tests, animals given turmeric experienced lower cholesterol and blood sugar. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/turmeric-000277.htm

• In Chinese medicine, turmeric has been used to regulate menstruation and relieve eczema and arthritis using the its anti-inflammatory properties. http://nccam.nih.gov/health/turmeric/

• As a natural antiseptic, turmeric can be applied to cuts and burns.http://nccam.nih.gov/health/turmeric/

• Bisdemethoxycurcumin, the most active ingredient in the root, can help increase the immune system's activity. In Alzheimer's sufferers, this can aid in decreases the amyloid plaques that are present in Alzheimer's patients. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=78