Turmeric is the second autumnal-hued powder to get some airtime this month. The pumpkin-spice highlighter (no, seriously) will leave you dazzling on the outside, whereas turmeric promises to fix a multitude of ills, leaving you dazzling from the inside out. A superfood that everyone from health guru Deliciously Ella to Gwyneth Paltrow is behind.
A new study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research has confirmed that the chemical curcumin found in turmeric is safe and effective in treating depression. It also claims that it is more effective than the standard antidepressant. Turmeric, although hasn't yet been linked with preventing/treating cancer, initial experiments indicated that turmeric extract and curcumin reduced the development of animal tumours.
With that in mind, here is your cheat sheet for the supreme superfood, which should definitely have prime position in your kitchen cupboard.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric is in the same family as ginger spice (surprise, surprise) and though spiking in popularity in 2016, has actually been used in ancient medicine for thousands of years. It contains a chemical called curcumin which is responsible for an array of health-boosting, antioxidant benefits.
Is turmeric good for you?
Turmeric does far more than ensure curries taste divine. It is your secret weapon in vitality, can slow down Alzheimers disease and even speeding up your metabolism. Turmeric isn’t good for you, it’s AMAZING for you.
What are the other benefits of turmeric?
Turmeric beats inflammation.
Studies show turmeric can combat swelling and inflamed cells. If you have stomach issues, then turmeric can help ease Crohn’s Disease and IBS.
Turmeric improves your skin
It’s anti-inflammatory benefits, also means it can prevent acne and help your scars fade quickly. It has also be accredited for glowing skin and even skin tone.
Turmeric helps prevent coughs and colds
The antibacterial properties can strengthen your immune system if taken regularly. The golden spice can also be used to speed up recovery time. Try drinking a a tbsp of turmeric mixed with milk, next time you have the sniffles.
How do I make a turmeric face mask?
To ensure you get the most skin benefits, it is recommended you use turmeric topically. To make a face mask, mix 1tbsp of Turmeric, 3 tbsp of yoghurt, 3 tbsp of flour and a drizzle of honey and leave on for 15 minutes.
Which celebrities are fans of turmeric?
Deliciously Ella is a true advocate of the spice and has recipes for tonics, curry and even hummus in her cook books. Star Wars Actress Daisy Ridley posted a photo to Instagram of her sporting a yellow turmeric mask and Thandie Newton who reveals she uses a few drops in her tinted moisturiser.
Is turmeric expensive?
It may be in the same family as ginger spice, but don’t be mistaking Turmeric as Posh. It still hasn't been given a hefty price tag like it's other superfood companions (note: quinoa) and you can get 100g for less than £2. Check out turmeric on Amazon here.
Does turmeric whiten teeth?
Like activated charcoal and oil pulling, it is believed turmeric can act as a natural teeth whitener. To reap in the benefits, dip your wet toothbrush in a dab of turmeric, brush your teeth as normal then let the powder sit for a few minutes before washing off.
What's the deal with turmeric tea?
Turmeric lattes (or golden milk) are growing in popularity. They are typically made by blending nut milk, turmeric,coconut oil and organic honey, which sounds like a poster for a #wellness ad.
Recipes that include turmeric
Natasha Corrett from Honestly Healthy tells us the importance of incorporating turmeric into your diet, and gives us 3 easy recipes to try.
Turmeric Masala
'There is nothing more delicious than a home made curry and the spice turmeric is abundant in Indian cuisine. Turmeric helps to boost your immune system and is also a natural stimulant.'
Serving: 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Skill: Easy
Ingredients:
Method:
Turmeric Omelette
'Omelettes are so quick to make and you can put all sorts of leftovers into them. Eggs are just below alkaline, so try not to have them every day.'
Serving: 1
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Skill: Easy
Ingredients:
Method:
Tumeric Pancakes
'These delicious pancakes are full of delicious turmeric which is good immune boosting and increasing energy. I like mine with just a drizzle of coconut blossom syrup and and squeeze of lemon.'
Serving: 1-2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Skill: Easy
Ingredients:
Method:
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