Turmeric

Turmeric is the ingredient that gives our curries their beautiful colour and distinct taste. It is also a holistic medicine, passed down by our great grandmothers for its incredible healing benefits.

The golden root of the “curcuma longa” plant has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Its active compound, curcumin, is credited with most of its health benefits.

At V-Giyan™, we have a few meals featuring turmeric. Give our Aloo Gobi, Bengan (Aubergine) Masala or our recently launched Coconut and Mushroom Curry a go and benefit from the added turmeric to your diet. With its yellow-golden colour and unique taste it will boost your health in many ways!

From anti-inflammatory to a healthy gut, turmeric has it all:

•    It is well-known for its powerful ability to reduce inflammation making it a natural remedy for joint pain or arthritis and helps in the prevention of cancer. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of turmeric also promote overall skin health.
•    Curcumin has strong antioxidant properties that can neutralise free radicals contributing to aging and disease. It promotes heart health by increasing blood flow.
•    Studies suggest it improves cognitive function and potentially reduces the risk of age-related brain conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. It also has mood-boosting properties and can alleviate depression and anxiety.
•    Turmeric is considered a powerful immuno-modulatory herb in Ayurveda. Its antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibacterial properties help boost the immune system and protect the body from common illnesses and infections.
•    Gut health: Adding turmeric will promote healthy digestion as it increases bile flow and works towards a healthy balanced microbiome.

When we dive a little deeper into the science of Ayurveda, the ancient art of healing, we find out that turmeric is tridoshic, meaning it balances all three doshas in the body. It has a heating quality that balances Kapha (water) and Vata (air) doshas, while its bitter taste and astringent energetic effect balance Pitta (fire) dosha. 

It is classified as a Rasayana herb, which means it rejuvenates the body.

Especially during festive seasons, our physical body might be challenged by an overload of sugary and heavy food. Try and experiment by adding turmeric into your everyday food to help your digestive system. In Ayurvedic and Yogic traditions we talk about strengthening the “agni”, the fire that helps you digest.

For its best bioavailability, take it in combination with black pepper. You can either add both to your everyday hot meal to give it an “Indian twist”, or even sprinkle some on your morning porridge.

Add it in face masks for a healthy glow to your skin – traditionally it is used on brides to give them the extra shine for their special day (be aware, it can get messy!).

Turmeric is also often included in daily Ayurvedic teas or consumed with warm milk to support overall immunity.

To explore V-Giyan™ Turmeric dishes click here

And if you can’t wait, here is a famous recipe for you to try at home:

Vegan Golden Milk Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
* 1 ½ cups light coconut milk (or substitute with other dairy-free milk)
* 1 ½ cups unsweetened plain almond milk
* 1 ½ tsp ground turmeric
* ¼ tsp ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger)
* ¼ tsp ground cinnamon)
* 1 tsp coconut oil (optional for richness)
* Pinch of ground black pepper
* Sweetener of choice (e.g., maple syrup, coconut sugar, or stevia)

Instructions:
1.    In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, almond milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, coconut oil (if using), and black pepper.
2.    Whisk to combine and warm over medium heat. Heat until hot to the touch but not boiling (about 4 minutes), whisking frequently.
3.    Turn off heat and taste to adjust flavour. Add more sweetener to taste or more turmeric or ginger for intense spice and flavour.
4.    Serve immediately, dividing between two glasses.

Tips: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste. Use freshly grated ginger for a more intense flavour. Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or nutmeg, for added depth. ENJOY and let us know what you think!

Sources/References:
– Frawley, David, and Vasant Lad. The Yoga of Herbs. Lotus Press, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin; 2001. 149-150.
– Zhu LN; Mei X; Zhang ZG; Xie YP; Lang F; “Curcumin Intervention for Cognitive Function in Different Types of People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Phytotherapy research : PTR. U.S. – –  – National Library of Medicine, March 2019. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30575152/.
– Gunnars, Kris. “10 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin.” – Healthline. Healthline Media, May 7, 2021. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric#TOC_TITLE_HDR_4