By Emilie Johnson
Turmeric is thought to be one of the most beneficial and potent antioxidants in the world. Fall being a prime time for flus to get around, increasing your intake of turmeric, thus boosting your immune system, could prove very beneficial. Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as both a spice and medicinal herb. More recent research has proven its medicinal value due to its main active ingredient curcumin, which has both powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is also a very strong antioxidant. In order to benefit most from curcumin it is recommended you take it with black pepper because it contains piperine – a compound which increases curcumin’s absorption by 2000%.
Touted benefits of turmeric, and subsequently curcumin, include anti-inflammatory effects as strong as some anti-inflammatory drugs, increased antioxidant content of the body, treatment for arthritis, improved brain function and lowered risks of brain disease, it is thought to help prevent cancer, it may be used to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s, and can also act as a supplement to the treatment of depression. In order to take advantage of turmeric’s many benefits try The Juicery Co’s Melons One or Dad’s juice, both of which include cold-pressed turmeric root. (Click here to have a look!)
You can also try to incorporate it into your cooking using turmeric powder. Of course adding a new spice to your daily recipes might be easier said than done, so in addition, we would suggest making turmeric paste with the recipe cited below. This paste is most often used to make “Golden Milk” but can also be turned into a tea, or added to smoothies.
Turmeric Paste
1/4 c of turmeric powder
1/2 tsp of ground black pepper
1/2 c of filtered water
Mix the turmeric powder and water in a small pan over medium-high heat until a thick paste forms (between 5-10 mins). Add the black pepper and stir vigorously to incorporate.
*** Be aware that turmeric stains, so make sure you’re not wearing your favourite t-shirt or that you put on an apron!
Golden Milk
Try adding a 1/4 tsp of turmeric paste to our Honey Almond Mylk with a tsp of coconut oil and a bit of honey (I also added a sprinkle of cinnamon to mine… delicious!).
As if you aren’t already sold… but just in case, you should also know that turmeric’s antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties make it very effective for treating skin care issues such as acne. Mix turmeric powder with honey and use it as a spot treatment or a face-mask to treat and prevent acne, reduce acne scarring, and improve overall radiance of your skin!
