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Turmeric: The Powerful Golden Spice

Turmeric. What do we know about this powerful herb? What are its benefits? Why should we use it?  

Turmeric is a plant related to ginger, and it’s grown throughout India, other parts of Asia, and Africa. It’s used in cooking, in holistic medicine, and in Hinduism, it has great spiritual significance. 

The use of Turmeric dates back to approximately 4,000 years to the Vedic culture in India. Ayurveda, the Indian system of holistic medicine, uses mainly plant-based medicines, or formulations to treat various ailments. Turmeric is taken by mouth in the form of capsules, teas, or liquid extracts. Turmeric can also be made into a paste and be applied directly to the skin for eczema and wound healing. 
The active compound of Turmeric called Curcumin, is believed to have a wide range of wonderful properties including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-tumor, and anti-oxidant properties. Modern medicine has only just begun to recognize the true importance of Turmeric. 

Turmeric has been used to aid in digestion and in liver function, to relieve arthritis pain, respiratory ailments, and in the treatment of stomach ulcers. It provides immune system support and helps promote healthy skin and eyes. It aids in joint health, helps to promote a healthy female reproductive system, and is helpful in maintaining a healthy prostate.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has conducted its own clinical trials with Turmeric, and declared the active component in Turmeric, cucumin, as safe.  As of today, no studies have shown any toxic effects associated with the use of Turmeric, however, it should not be used by people who have gallstones (cholelithiasis) or obstruction of the common bile duct  .

When you add this amazing herb to your diet, it is one of the most positive things you can do to improve the quality of your life. You can add turmeric to everything from curries, and vegetarian dishes, to smoothies, and even to warm milk. You can use either Turmeric powder, fresh Turmeric root, or you can take curcumin capsules. We buy Turmeric at our local health food store. If you can’t find Turmeric powder, fresh Turmeric root, or curcumin locally, here is where you can find Turmeric powder Turmeric root and curcumin capsules online. 

We use Turmeric every day in cooking, and every evening we make a beautiful, healthy drink called Golden Milk. The recipes for Turmeric Paste and Golden Milk are included in Dr. Arjan’s very informative video “How to Make Golden Milk”. The video and recipes are included below for your convenience. 

How do you use Turmeric? 


Turmeric Paste:
Measure 1/4 cup Turmeric powder into a small pan. Mix with 1/2 cup of pure water and simmer over medium-high heat for at least 7 minutes, stirring constantly. A thick paste will form. If it gets too dry while it is cooking, add additional water. Once it's cooled, put into a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator. This will keep approximately three weeks.

Making Golden Milk: 
Add 1 tsp. of the Turmeric paste to 1 cup of milk ( cow, goat, soy, almond, rice or any combination), into a small pan. Heat gently until warm. Remove from heat and add maple syrup or honey to taste. Add 1/2 tsp. of almond, sesame, or coconut oil. Stir and Enjoy! 

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