Turmeric origins and trends
For centuries, turmeric has been widely used in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines and medicinal practices. In fact, India produces the largest amount of turmeric in the world and consumes 80% of it. The past couple years the West has started to catch on to turmeric’s benefits and gain inspiration from its traditional usage. From turmeric supplements, lattes, and facial oils, this superfood trend has dominated the beauty and wellness industry.
What are the health benefits of turmeric?
The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has significant anti-inflammatory properties so it is commonly used as a remedy to reduce inflammation. Also, it’s a skincare favorite spice because it contains vitamin C and antioxidants that protects the skin from sun damage and aging. Daily consumption (oral or applicable) is beneficial for your body, skin and hair so let’s show you ways you can incorporate it into your diet and beauty routine.
How to incorporate turmeric on the daily
Turmeric Tea
In Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine, turmeric is brewed into a tea as a remedy for digestive issues and respiratory conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties can relieve bloating, constipation, menstrual cramps, joint pain, sprains, allergy, and sinusitis ... the list goes on. This tiny root is nature’s ibuprofen so think twice before you reach for the medicine cabinet and brew yourself a cup of turmeric tea instead.
Recipe:
2 tbsp of freshly grounded turmeric root
1/4 lemon 1 tsp of honey
Directions: Boil water until it's steaming and pour it over the turmeric. Let the turmeric steep in a teapot and serve it with lemon and honey after 30 minutes of steeping.
Turmeric Hair Oil
Turmeric’s anti-fungal and antibacterial properties can treat scalp conditions and irritations such as dandruff, fungus, dryness, and itchiness. The spice creates a healthier environment on your scalp and promotes healthier hair as it reduces breakage and hair loss.
Recipe:
4 tbsp of grated turmeric
1/2 cup of coconut or sweet almond oil (depends on your hair type)
Directions: Grate the turmeric and stir it in low heat for 12-15 minutes. Then, strain it when you finish.
Turmeric Facemask
The root has gained reputable status in skincare because of its ability to reduce dark spots, acne, redness and irritations. Turmeric’s abundance of vitamin C will give your skin radiance and leave your skin #glowing.
Recipe:
1 tbsp of powdered turmeric
1 tsp rose water
1 tbsp honey
Directions: Mix the ingredients until its liquid then massage it onto clean skin. Leave the mask on for 20-25 minutes. This mask will leave a yellow color on your face so wash your face with a cleanser after. Then, massage jojoba oil into your face and get a rose water soaked cotton pad to remove the rest of the residue off your face.
Turmeric in Food
Turmeric can be found in Indian dishes and delights like daal — check out one of our favorite recipes here — and haldi doodh (golden milk). Adding this spice into your meals will promote easier digestion and minimize feeling bloated. To enhance turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties, cook with black pepper or coconut oil as they both increase the absorption of curcumin.
Turmeric Smoothie
Add this tasty smoothie to your meal plan because it will help boost your immune system. For anyone who experiences monthly periods, this is a delicious sweet treat to enjoy during PMS because it will satisfy your sweet cravings and soothe bloating and abdominal pain.
Recipe:
1/2 cup of coconut milk
1 tbsp of turmeric
1 small frozen banana
1/3 cup of pineapple
Directions: First blend the coconut milk and turmeric together. Then, blend the rest of the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Photo by Natural Chef Carolyn Nicholas on Unsplash
