Health Bites : Food That Heal 

             Turn To Turmeric

Posted on 21st August, 2009/comments                                                         

Health Bites : Food That Heals

 In India Turmeric holds the crown in spice market, be it  any ceremony, festival or for  health benefits, it is a consistent winner.

A lump of turmeric is always placed prior to invoking the deity. The bride and the groom are smeared with a paste of turmeric before tying in a wed lock.

During winter season fresh ryzhomes of turmeric are easily available in the market, which can be used to make side dishes or can be pickled and stored for later use. 

Pickle recipe:

Cut the fresh turmeric in very fine pieces or better grate it. Take vegetable oil in a wok,  add spices (mustard, saunf, jeera, onion seeds) about a tsp each, green chillies, asafoetida  and a pinch of salt. Let the spice cook for a minute. Then add the grated turmeric and cook for another 5 mts. Done. Store the pickle in a clean jar.

The two  important elements in turmeric ,a yellow pigment called curcumin and volatile oil , makes it the most sought after spice.

Health benefits :

• Curcumin which is an antioxidant and is proved beneficial in curing cancer and boosting immunity.
• The volatile oil in it  is  anti- inflammatory and acts against arthritis and stomach ulcers.
• Detoxify the liver and help increase its ability to clear LDL cholesterol.
• Stimulates the flow of bile and is a digestive aid.
• Natural antiseptic and anti bacterial, protect and heal the cuts & wounds faster.
• Control obesity , as it helps digest fats by stimulating the flow of bile.
• Helps lower BP .

Turmeric trial : Bane of living  in a metro city with pollution, dirt and poisonous gases all around  made my hubby knock the doors of doctors very often for his recurrent sinus problem.

For the past two years I have switched his daily morning cup of coffee to turmeric milk. After a few days of denial and dislike he started enjoying  the change. Now that his doctor's bills have reduced, I have a cheerful and satisfied hubby with love and praises in store for me !

Though I do not have any evidence or written proof to support my findings, with numerous health benefits to its credit there is no harm in giving the humble turmeric a try ! 

Turn to turmeric ....

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