Turmeric is the golden spice of life, having many health benefits. Turmeric is a native plant to South Asia. Turmeric belongs to the spice family called Zingiberaceae and looks similar to ginger spice. It is an old spice from the rhizomes of the plant called Curcuma Longa. Here in Newzealand, turmeric has been grown by people native to India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Initially, turmeric was known for its use of colours in staple rice to fancy cakes. This spice’s fame spread across the globe after finding its health benefits. Turmeric in New Zealand is considered a novel spice.
Turmeric requires half shade to cultivate it but too much shade may spoil the cultivation. Turmeric in New Zealand needs at least a 12-degree centigrade to survive and grow. Sometimes turmeric could be even grown in large pots at home. Break a rhizome into pieces, each containing 2-3 buds. Place the rhizome carefully at least 2 inches below the moist soil. In the summertime, the average maximum temperature of New Zealand ranges from 20 to 30 degrees centigrade and 10 to 15 degrees centigrade. So, During wintertime, the plant shifts indoor. Turmeric takes about 8-9 months to harvest. Usually harvested after the stem turns dry
and leaves turn yellow. Turmeric has a long list of health benefits which led turmeric into the list of superfoods.
Turmeric in New Zealand finds its popularity due to its surprising health benefits. Some of the health benefits are,
1. Anti-inflammatory property
Inflammation is required to the body unless it is acute. Inflammation at normal levels may result in other body disorders. High inflammation plays a predominant role in causing many diseases like heart disease, metabolic syndrome and more. Turmeric has a promising compound called curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties. This anti-inflammatory property also helps to build the immune system.
2. As antioxidants
Oxidative reactions are the reasons behind ageing and many other health problems. These have free-radical which pair up with proteins and create damage. Curcumin in turmeric has powerful antioxidant properties that can neutralise this effect.
3. As an antidepressant
Researchers have found out that curcumin components in turmeric can help people suffering from depression. Turmeric is said to calm the nervous system in the human body.
Value-added products from Turmeric
1. Turmeric powder
Turmeric powder is the most used value-added product from turmeric. Turmeric powder is used worldwide for its colour, flavour and health benefits. Turmeric in its powder form paves the way for many other value-added products. The powder form makes it easy to use in any food.
2. Turmeric oleoresin
Oleoresin is a semi-solid obtained from turmeric with the help of hydrocarbons. Turmeric oleoresin is orange-red and used in foods and beverages for its flavour and colour.
3. Turmeric beauty products
Turmeric finds its uses even in beauty products due to its anti-inflammatory property and antioxidant property. These properties provide glow to the skin, reduce acne and reduce skin wrinkles. There are many products like soap, face wash, face masks and many more.
4. Wound healing creams
The curcumin in turmeric has good healing properties. Turmeric is used in wound healing creams and is very effective in healing wounds and even scars. Turmeric cream finds its use even for dermatological purposes.
5. Turmeric capsules
Since turmeric has scientifically proven health benefits, they also come in the form of capsules. These capsules provide immunity. One can use these capsules for depression, arthritis and many other health issues.
6. The all healthy yellow snack!
Snacks can now be healthy as well as stay fascinating to youngsters and kids. There are a lot of products that incorporate turmeric for its proven health benefits. Some such snacks are Energy bars, cookies, chocolates, crackers and many more. They also find uses in the beverages industry to make turmeric flavoured milk and lattes.
“Author Name : Zoya Maryam”