Turmeric

Sometimes incorrectly labeled tumeric, turmeric is a member of the ginger family that gives mustards and curry their yellow color. Turmeric is high in iron, manganese, potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, as well as antioxidants. It possesses cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties. According to 101 Foods, turmeric has been traditionally used to relieve menstrual cramps, respiratory conditions, ulcers, and inflammation. Turmeric can help strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and promote cardiovascular health. It has also been found to counteract cognitive impairment after brain injury in a study involving rats, and also to combat cancers of the skin, breast, prostate, and colon.

Turmeric is traditionally dried and ground into powder. If you are making your own turmeric powder, use caution as it can stain clothing. If purchasing turmeric powder, buy from a fresh source and in small quantities. Turmeric can be added to stews, soups, rice, and fish dishes. It can also be found in tea form. Dr. Oz recommends drinking turmeric tea prior to consuming alcohol to help prevent hangovers.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, October 27th, 2010 at 8:02 pm and is filed under Interesting Facts. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.