Turmeric (also known as tumeric) is found in a root, rhizome, that is most commonly found in India and Southeast Asia. Before the advent of chemical dyes, turmeric was used for hundreds of years as a coloring for fabric. Its bright yellow-gold color is striking and a popular choice for a variety of garments.
Turmeric’s color is also seen in the foods it is added to as a spice and/or food coloring. Turmeric is added to curry powder and mustard and used to color cheese. Though turmeric looks like saffron, it has a very dfferent taste. Known for being bitter, with a strong pepper taste, turmeric has to be used thoughtfully, as it does not go well many foods and lots of people simply do not like the taste of turmeric with anything.
There are two kinds of turmeric commonly available, called alleppey and Madras. Alleppey is the the form of turmeric we see in American supermarkets and can be identified by its deeper color.
1) In India turmeric has been used to treat eye infections.
2) Turmeric contains compounds that act as painkillers.
3) In studies turmeric was found to be an effective anti-inflammatory.
4) As an antioxidant turmeric is taken to help battle cancer.
5) For madras turmeric you will likely have to go to an Indian grocery store, or one that contains a specialty section that includes turmeric.
6) Turmeric continues to be used in the treatment of wounds.
7) The power of turmeric is damaged by heat, so it must be stored in a cool, dry place.
8) The bright yellow pigment of turmeric comes from curcuminoids, which are an antioxidant.
9) As an antioxidant, turmeric blocks nitric oxide and the enzyme that produces it.
10) Turmeric’s antioxidants help to attack micro-organisms that invade the human body and have the potential to do harm.
Because turmeric is taken in small amounts, and has a taste strong enough to discourage high levels of consumption, there are few, in any, side effects or interactions. Toxic reactions to turmeric have not been reported.
Turmeric is not a nutrient required by the body and there are no guidelines for consuming it on a regular basis. Should an individual want to use it for specific treatment purposes, a physician who is familiar with herbal treatments should be consulted to determine the appropriate amount of turmeric to take.
Copyright © Dennis Becker, 2004.
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