There’s a new super food in town and it’s the all-mighty Turmeric.
This tiny root is the little sister of the ginger root and has been renowned as a super food in ancient medicine for thousands of years by many cultures. Known especially for it’s immune boosting and antioxidant properties, turmeric’s health powers are basically, endless.
And it's not just good for your insides. Turmeric does wonders for your skin too with its anti-inflammatory properties which can help to reduce redness and skin irritation, whilst its anti-bacterial qualities help reduce blemishes and acne.
In fact, according to studies conducted at the University of California, the active ingredient in turmeric 'curcumin' can reduce the instances of Alzheimer’s disease. This is why a study of elderly people in Indian villages found that they had the lowest cases of Alzheimer’s in the world.
And, for those who suffer with stomach issues, this little root can help with issues of leaky gut, Crohn's disease and IBS with it’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities easing pain.
Here's a by-no-means-exhaustive list of some of the other benefits this root can work it’s magic on:
Detoxifying body and liver
Boosting immunity by improving liver function
Protecting liver tissue
Cleansing and purifying the blood
Easing symptoms of coughs and colds
Improving circulation in the body
Improving skin complexion
Preventing internal blood clotting
Reducing bad cholesterol
Reducing inflammation – all types of arthritis and other inflammation
Stimulating secretion of bile which helps break down fat
Phew!
Turmeric Tea or 'Golden Milk' is a great way to get the benefits of turmeric daily. Here are two simple recipes to follow for making it at home.
1. Immune boosting turmeric golden lassi
Ingredients
Will make 1 large or 2 small cups
1 banana
Tsp size piece of ginger
2 tsp of ground turmeric or 1 tsp size piece of turmeric root
2 ½ tbsp of natural yogurt (use organic, I use Woodlands sheep’s organic) alternatively use a organic plant based milk such as almond.
½ a lemon juice
1 tsp of honey (I use raw organic honey)
1 tsp of vanilla extract
Small handful of ice cubes
Method
Literally just add all ingredients into your blender, blend and enjoy.
2. Morning turmeric tea
Ingredients:
Will make a small pot of tea
1tsp of turmeric
3-4 inch piece of ginger
2 cinnamon sticks
Slice or squeeze of lemon
1tsp of honey
Optional: slice of orange
Method
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In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil, add peeled and sliced ginger root, turmeric root or powder and 2 cinnamon sticks, optional to add a slice of orange too.
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Simmer for 10-15 minutes on medium-low heat. Pour into a pot and and strain through.
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TO SERVE: add coconut oil, which is optional, honey to taste, and fresh slice of lemon. Enjoy hot or warm.
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.