Turmeric has a centuries old history of use in India where it is revered as a culinary spice but is also used medicinally to treat wounds, digestive upset, and many other ailments.   Turmeric is included in the Traditional Chinese Medical Herbal system but is not as major of a player as it is in india.

 Turmeric is the predominant ingredient in Curry which is consumed daily in India. It is notable that India has a 10 times lower incidence of cancer than does the United States.

 

Lab research has revealed that one of the active ingredients, Curcumin, works by re-establishing the normal function of  individual cells in the body.  This is of particular importance in the prevention of cancer, which is essentially the uncontrolled growth of a cell.  According to researchers from the University of Texas  Anderson Cancer Center Turmeric ”blocks a key biological pathway needed for the development of melanoma and other cancers.

 

Turmeric is best consumed on a daily or weekly basis in the presence of other foods.  You can mix it with spices such as ginger, cumin, and coriander to flavor dishes like chicken, fish, or tofu.  Classic yellow curry powder can be mixed with coconut milk and then cooked with vegetables or proteins and served over rice.

The flavor of turmeric is pungent but it is rather mild and it blends nicely with foods and does not overpower them.  You may also buy a pure turmeric supplement if you feel you need a higher daily medicinal dose.

 

So curry some favor with your health!