Posted on May 20, 2019
Hailed as a super spice, turmeric has become increasingly popular. You might have even spotted a turmeric latte at your local coffee shop. But what is turmeric, and what benefits can it offer for your health?
What is turmeric?
A popular spice rack staple, turmeric is commonly used in Indian cuisine, adding warmth and colour to dishes. Its traditional Indian use goes back centuries, and turmeric has been used historically to maintain healthy blood, skin and circulation.
What does turmeric contain?
Turmeric gets its distinctive yellow colour from pigments called circuminoids, and it also contains essential oils called tumerones. These work together as powerful antioxidants, protecting against damaging free radicals.
The benefits of turmeric
Some of the healthy benefits of turmeric include the following;
- Inhibits inflammation pathways within the body
- Impacts pain receptors
- Improves blood flow to the heart
- Improves blood flow through the liver
- Supports healthy digestion
Ways to up your turmeric intake
As well as adding a golden glow to lattes, turmeric can also be used at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sprinkle over vegetables to give your Sunday roast a turmeric twist, or swap salt for turmeric when seasoning dishes. Or why not start the day with a carrot, ginger and turmeric smoothie, with your new favourite spice adding warmth to your breakfast blend.
