You may think adding turmeric root to your healthy lifestyle and diet can only be done by taking a simple capsule twice a day, but that’s certainly not the case. You can add it to skin compresses, foods and drinks in a variety of ways, all while reaping the reported health benefits. Read on to learn how to use turmeric root in seven different ways.
Turmeric – especially the root and rhizome of the plant – has been widely used medicinally for generations all around the globe due to its perceived curative and healing properties. The compound in turmeric that is known for its potential health benefits, and its signature golden color, is curcumin.
According to WellnessMama.com, curcumin is believed to slow or even stop an enzyme that may be responsible for turning external toxins into internal carcinogens. It has even been a folk remedy to help protect the body from oxidation and other negative effects of tobacco use.
Aside from the potential health benefits that we’ve already discussed in previous blog posts, many find turmeric root to be a delicious addition to a healthy diet – and a colorful one at that.
How to Use Turmeric Root in 7 Ways
Keep in mind that if you’re cooking with turmeric root, especially grating it fresh, it may stain counters, kitchen towels, porous utensils, and your hands and clothing. Accordinging to SkinnyChef.com, turmeric is simple to cook with. But to fully unleash its full healthy potential, it should to be eaten warm in a dish that contains healthy fats. Consider the following:
- In smoothies and juices. A particularly good addition to mango smoothies or juices, add a teaspoon or two of peeled/grated turmeric root to give your morning drink an extra kick of health. You might wanna grab your shades: Add turmeric root to a yellow or orange glassful of health will make it even brighter.
- In golden milk. Turmeric milk – also called turmeric root tea or golden milk – is an ancient remedy commonly used in India to support upper respiratory health and other parts of the body. It is usually made with dried turmeric powder and other spices, as well as milk or water. But you can also use fresh turmeric root.
- For added color. Imagine plain rice, mashed cauliflower, or even deviled eggs with a kick of that curcumin color! A little goes a long way on a simple white canvas though, and it won’t alter the flavor of those favorite foods much at all.
- In souped-up soup. Mom always said that soup was good for a cold. So add a grated teaspoon or two of fresh turmeric root to your soups for a splash of color and potential health benefits.
- In hot chocolate. SkinnyChef.com also offers a twist on a favorite, although simple, wintertime staple by mixing milk, cocoa powder, your choice of sweetener, turmeric, and cinnamon in a small saucepan. Find the full recipe here.
- As a skin mask. AnnMarie Gianni recommends using turmeric in a face mask along with other natural ingredients like like oatmeal, greek yogurt, and honey to help reduce oil, delay the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and help fade the appearance of sunspots.
- As a substitute for other spices. Turmeric can be used in recipes as a substitute for four other spices. If you don’t have saffron, mustard, marigold, or annatto in the spice cabinet, a bit of turmeric will work in a pinch.
Do you have your favorite ways to cook with turmeric root? Do you have tips and tricks to share with others about how to use turmeric root? We’re all ears and would love to hear your ideas in the comments below.
