Turmeric Powder: Uses of The Golden Spice

Spices play a major role in shaping India's history and culture. They have been a part of trade, cuisine, and rituals since centuries. India holds dominance over the overproduction and consumption of numerous Spices. One of them is Turmeric powder. This blog will enlighten one about this golden spice.

Origin of Turmeric:
Turmeric is always used in ground form, as a bright yellow, fine powder. It's Warm and aromatic with a bitter undertone. The name derives from the Latin word “terra merita”, “meritorious earth” referring to the colour of ground turmeric which resembles a mineral pigment. In many languages, turmeric is simply named as “yellow root”.

Uses of Turmeric:

• Used in Hindu Rituals

In Hindu religion, Turmeric powder is considered Auspicious and is used in wedding ceremonies and poojas. In Indian Customs, haldi (Turmeric) is applied to the bride and groom, as a symbol of blessing, to ward of bad omen, and to give them natural and raidant glow before their big day. It is also considered to be holy and is served as an offering to God in poojas with fruits and flowers.

• As a Dye for Holy Robes

Turmeric is used as a dye for holy robes, as its unsynthesized, natural and cheap. Turmeric gets its bright yellow colour due to Curcumin (component of Turmeric). It also contains an orange-coloured Volatile oil. Turmeric as a dye is commonly used in Indian clothing, such as sarees and Buddhist monk robes.

• Active Ingredient in many Dishes

Turmeric is also used as a culinary dye. It is used in India to tint many sweet dishes. It is also used mainly in curries and rice. It is rich in healthy nutrients such as protein, fibre, vitamin C, E and K, potassium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc. It is often used to colour cheese, yogurt, salad dressings, butter and many more things.

• Use as part of Skin Care

Turmeric can work wonders on skin as well. At first, it was usually used in homemade masks, mixed with different ingredients to make skin clear, smooth and hydrated. Although, nowadays many cosmetic companies have started using turmeric as a key ingredient in their product. It being a natural component, it is safe and effective on skin.

• Home Doctor - Best Antibiotic

Turmeric paste is used to heal wounds or to protect against infection. South Asian countries use it as an antiseptic for cuts, burns, and bruises, and as an antibacterial agent. Turmeric is also used to cleanse the wounds and stimulate their recovery, Sometimes, turmeric mixed with milk or water is taken to treat intestinal disorders as well as colds and sore throats.

Summing It Up:
Turmeric Powder is easily accessible, cheap and can be found in every kitchen in India. Due to it's high demand and use,  Turmeric powder is subjected to adulteration. Adulteration in spices is a common news. It hampers the quality and properties of the spices.

Distinguishing superior quality turmeric powder just by seeing it is not easy. which is why we should opt for Certified organic Turmeric powder.