Turmeric powder is a commonly used spice for foods, but it also offers a range of other uses. Let’s explore some cool ways to use turmeric powder in your home!
What Is Turmeric Powder?
Turmeric powder is a vibrant spice that comes from the Curcuma longa plant. To make this powder, people carefully dry the plant’s root and then grind it into a fine dust. This process brings out turmeric’s signature golden color.
The Roots of Turmeric
Turmeric is related to ginger. They both belong to the same plant family and share some similar features. The Curcuma longa plant grows best in warm climates and is native to Southeast Asia and India.
Farmers harvest the roots, then they’re washed, dried, and ground. That’s how we get the turmeric powder you see in supermarkets.
Fresh Turmeric vs Dry Turmeric
| Fresh Turmeric | Dry Turmeric |
| High moisture resulting in a softer texture and a bright orange color | No moisture. Typically ground into powder |
| Subtle, mild taste. Floral and peppy aroma | Intense, earthy flavor |
| Lower shelf life of 1-2 weeks when stored in a refrigerator | Higher shelf life of a few months, when stored in a cool, dark place |
| Higher level of Antioxidants & Essential Oils | More Concentrated amounts of Curcumin |
Health Benefits of Turmeric Powder
Consuming Turmeric power can have beneficial effects beyond its taste and aroma. Some of those benefits are listed below:
Antioxidant Properties
Turmeric is packed with a powerful substance called curcumin. It’s known for its antioxidant properties, which means it battles against tiny, harmful particles in your body called free radicals. These free radicals can damage cells and lead to illnesses.
Anti-Inflammatory
Turmeric is also famous for its anti-inflammatory abilities. Inflammation is your body’s way of fighting off things that could harm it, like infections, injuries, and toxins. However, when inflammation sticks around too long, it can cause problems.
Turmeric steps in to help reduce that unnecessary inflammation, making it a natural helper for things like a scratchy throat or a swollen knee from a fall.
Brain and Heart Health
Turmeric promotes overall brain health and can support your heart in doing its important job of keeping blood flowing smoothly. Plus, it can help in managing blood sugar levels.
Using Turmeric in Food
Turmeric is used in cooking around the world. There are many recipes with Turmeric, be it fresh or powdered. It works amazingly well in a variety of foods and beverages. If you’re wondering, ‘How can I incorporate Turmeric into my diet?’ you’ve come to the right place.
Dips and Spreads
Turmeric can be added to a variety of different dips, for it’s health benefits as well as it’s flavor. For example, it can blend well with the chickpeas, tahini, cumin and garlic in Hummus.
Turmeric Tea
Turmeric tea is a popular beverage. It is made by brewing Turmeric in hot water. Many people like to add a pinch of black pepper to the tea, as it is believed to enhance the bioavailability of Turmeric, via absorption of it’s active compound, curcumin. The tea has an aromatic and strong flavor.
Golden Milk
Before bedtime, mix turmeric powder with warm milk. Add a little honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and a dash of cinnamon or ginger for an extra flavor kick.
Golden milk may also help you sleep better. Just whisk together a teaspoon of powdered Turmeric with your milk of choice and heat it up gently.
Smoothies
You can also add Turmeric to your smoothie to boost up your health benefits, as well as to spice it up!
Add a pinch of turmeric powder and load your smoothie with greens like bananas or berries, and maybe a little spinach or kale. You can also add a little sweetness, like dates or raw honey. The Turmeric adds a subtle spice and a splash of color.
Put it in a blender until everything is smooth, pour out the smoothie, and enjoy.
Super Soups
When you make soup, add a dash of turmeric powder. It adds a warm, earthy flavor and a golden hue to your soup. It can enhance the dish with its beneficial compounds.
For a simple way to incorporate it, stir a teaspoon of Turmeric into your soup while it simmers. This spice not only perks up the flavor but also contributes to a nutritious meal that can support your immune system.
Grains
You can add ground turmeric to grains while they are cooking, or you can also add the fresh turmeric root to the pot and then remove it afterward. Either way, it will infuse the grains with the aroma and taste of the Turmeric.
Roasted Vegetables
You can sprinkle some powdered Turmeric on vegetables, alongside olive oil and a little salt, before roasting the greens. Any types of vegetables are suitable.
Broth
Alongside traditional vegetables, nutritional herbs and spices such as berries, Maca powder and of course turmeric, can also be added to broths to enhance the taste and the benefits.
Salad Dressings
You can mix a teaspoon of powdered Turmeric into your salad dressings. Mix the powder together with other toppings in a blender and enjoy the mixture.
Curries
Turmeric is most often used in Indian cuisine, so it is no surprise that it can be used in curries. Freshly grated turmeric powder can be added to various recipes.
Turmeric for Glowing Skin
You can mix a small amount of turmeric powder with everyday ingredients like yogurt or honey to create a face mask. Yogurt is great for moisturizing, while honey is known for its antibacterial properties. Together with Turmeric, they can help your skin look radiant and feel smooth.
How to Apply It Safely
Before you put this golden mask all over your face, it’s important to do a patch test. Just dab a tiny bit on your arm and wait for a day to ensure you don’t have a reaction. If all is good, apply the mask to your face, but avoid the area around your eyes.
Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. It might leave a slight yellow tint on your skin, which will fade away. It could also stain your clothes.
Extra Tips for Turmeric Use
While using Turmeric, keep in mind that a little goes a long way. You only need a pinch of powder to reap the benefits. Also, if you have lighter skin, you might want to use less Turmeric or mix it with more yogurt or honey to lighten the color of the mask.
A Natural Helper for Colds
Turmeric is quite beneficial when it comes to helping you overcome colds.
Here’s a simple recipe: mix a teaspoon of Turmeric with a spoonful of honey, then add it to a cup of warm water. Stir it up and sip slowly. Honey is known for its soothing properties, making it the perfect partner for Turmeric.
The anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin help to reduce the swelling in your nose and soothe your sore throat.
It’s important to remember that Turmeric is not a cure, but it can certainly help you feel more comfortable while your body heals.
Adding Something Extra
Another tip: for an extra boost, squeeze in a little lemon juice or grate in some ginger. Both lemon and ginger have their own health perks, like vitamin C and more anti-inflammatory powers. Thee ingredients can make this drink even more effective in battling cold symptoms.
The Hydration Factor
Remember, when you’re feeling under the weather, staying hydrated is key. So, this Turmeric, honey, and warm water mixture does double duty. It gives you fluids to help fight dehydration and the ingredients work together to help you recover.
Note: Always check with a healthcare provider before trying new remedies, especially if you have allergies or you’re on medication.
Creative Crafts with Turmeric
Turmeric is also a brilliant, natural dye. When you mix turmeric powder with water, it transforms into a vibrant paint.
Here’s how you can get started:
First, find some turmeric powder.
Mix a small amount of Turmeric with water in a bowl. Start with a teaspoon of Turmeric and add water slowly until you get the consistency of paint you like.
If it’s too thick, add more water; if it’s too thin, add Turmeric.
Now, grab a paintbrush and let your imagination run wild!
Turmeric can leave a permanent mark. So, it’s wise to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, and to cover tables or counters with newspapers or a plastic sheet to keep them clean. You can paint with Turmeric on fabric, wood, or even rocks. Just be aware that the color might look different on various surfaces.
Once you’re done, let your painting dry for a while. If you want to keep your Turmeric paint for another day, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for a few days.
Tooth Whitener
Turmeric powder can also be used as a natural tooth whitener. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, Turmeric is effective at reducing inflammation in the gums and fighting off bacteria that can cause plaque and tooth decay. When used regularly, turmeric powder can help to remove surface stains on teeth.
In order to use turmeric powder as a tooth whitener, mix it with a small amount of coconut oil to create a paste. Gently brush the mixture onto your teeth and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
The natural antibacterial properties of Turmeric combined with the cleansing power of coconut oil can help to whiten teeth and improve oral health over time. Plus, unlike commercial whitening products, turmeric powder is safe to use every day and won’t damage enamel.
Important Safety Tips
Turmeric may have it’s benefits and versatility of use, but it is also important to take care of certain things before using or consuming it.
Stomach Issues
Consuming a lot of Turmeric might lead to an upset stomach. This is because Turmeric contains certain compounds that can be hard on your digestive system when taken in large amounts. It’s smart to enjoy Turmeric in moderation to keep your belly happy.
Risk of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard little lumps that can form in your kidneys and cause a lot of pain. Turmeric contains oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of these stones.
If you’re someone who’s had kidney stones before or is at risk of getting them, you’ll want to think about cutting back on how much Turmeric you use.
Consult a Doctor
Talk to a healthcare professional before you decide to use Turmeric a lot, especially if you’re taking other medicines. Your doctor knows a lot about how different things can affect your body and can give you the best advice on how to use Turmeric safely without it messing with your medications.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
As we have seen, there are many ways to use Turmeric powder. It is not only great for cooking but also works in keeping you healthy, as a tooth whitener, a moisturizer, and even for doing fun crafts. Remember to store it right and not use too much of it.
