The first thing that probably comes to mind when someone says “turmeric,” is India, or maybe Tandoori Chicken. You may have heard that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, but who would have thought it could fight heart disease, Alzheimer’s, arthritis, diabetes, depression, and even protect against cancer? In addition, studies have shown curcumin can help battle hard to treat autoimmune conditions such as: inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis.

Research from the University of Tsukuba in Japan suggests that it may be as beneficial for your heart as aerobic exercise! Externally it has been used to treat bruising, ringworm, and eye infections. It is also an effective anti acne face wash, and tooth whitener.

The magic of turmeric comes from the root of the Curcuma Longa plant. Its anti-inflammatory properties are reputed to be comparable to hydrocortisone, and phenylbutazone, – without the side effects. Best of all it can be effective in the measure of 0.25 %, an amount easily found in one of your favorite dishes.

Try turmeric in eggs, on meats and in soups, or more traditional bean dishes such as lentils and humus. It’s especially nice with squash, or pumpkin, and there are some zesty, interesting turmeric teas and smoothies out there to satisfy both your culinary and wellness pursuits.

I recently tried this recipe for Turmeric Tea. = Love it! Exotic, simple and satisfying.

Turmeric Tea

One tablespoon of Wild Oats Organic Ground Turmeric

Two tablespoons of organic honey (more if you like it sweeter)

A slice of fresh lemon

Fresh ground black pepper

Stir the dry turmeric into the honey

Pour a cup of very hot (but not boiling) water over a large mug containing heaping teaspoon of the turmeric and honey combo, twist the lemon into the water, and grind some black pepper in for spicy heat.  – Stir and savor!

Please note: Curcumin levels are not evaluated for culinary turmeric. Curcumin levels are only established when turmeric is merchandised as a nutritional supplement. Average Curcumin levels in culinary turmeric is approximately 2 to 5 percent curcumin by weight.

Additional Resources:

Seven ways to get more super healing turmeric in your diet.

All about turmeric

How turmeric might help