Why I’m in love with turmeric

The other day, talking to a friend of mine, I was shocked to hear she didn’t know what turmeric was. It was surprising to me because it is a spice that you just assume everyone should be using! Its balancing and curative effects for all Doshas and its availability in the supermarkets make it a must. So, I decided to write this blog in hopes to inform you of its healing properties, in case you are still unfamiliar with this super-food. If you already use it, you could still learn a few tips. So, here are my reasons why I’m in love with turmeric.

Now, this is important. I normally buy turmeric in bulk – to save money – and organic. I rather use the powder form just because it never goes bad, but fresh is still even more amazing. If you buy it fresh, you use it in the same way that ginger root: you peel it and grate it. When I do buy it fresh, I saute it with garlic and and some ghee or coconut oil. Yummy!

Turmeric has some properties that make it wonderful to use it in cooking and medicinally. That is why it is known as the best medicine in Ayurveda! Its tastes are pungent, bitter, and astringent, and it’s slightly warm. I am a Vata-Pitta person so I use it a lot to balance my internal fire and prevent breakouts in my skin, cure allergies, and maintain my blood clean. But, turmeric is a tridoshic spice, meaning it can be used by Vatas, Pittas, and Kaphas.

I adore turmeric because:

• It helps with digestion. It kindles the digestive fire so it stimulates the digestion of sugar, fat, and oils. It is wonderful for diabetes! It is one of the best spices for Vata because it dispels gas and maintains the flora of the intestines.
• Turmeric cleanses the blood. Detox programs are great but, by using turmeric consistently in your diet, you can get the same effects over time than a detoxification diet. It helps dissolve tumors. It cleanses the liver too.
• It improves circulation. Great for scanty and irregular periods!
• It is an antibiotic, analgesic, and antiseptic. Use it as a paste (with rose water or Aloe Vera) on wounds, hemorrhoids, cuts, and skin conditions. The results are almost immediate.

Also, it gives food that beautiful yellowish color that makes it so attractive! My tip when using turmeric in the kitchen is to combine it with freshly grind black peppercorns. It helps your body absorb it much easier.

But wait. Be careful with it staining your clothes! I have used turmeric for years and I know once it falls on something, it will never dissapear, no matter how many times you wash it.

Amazing, isn’t it? I’m in love with turmeric since it really provides you with a plethora of benefits. Have turmeric as a staple in your kitchen and you will notice wonderful effects in your health. Your food will have a superpower after adding this potent Ayurvedic spice.