Turmeric, a bright golden spice, is a staple in many cuisines and traditional medicine systems around the world. Whether consumed fresh or dried, turmeric has impressive health benefits thanks to its active compound curcumin. Turmeric or Curcuma longa, a plant of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) native to South-East Asia, has been revered for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. Its benefits are also supported by traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as well as modern scientific research.
It’s no secret that everything raw contains more nutrients. Fresh turmeric contains more curcumin than powdered turmeric. Some curcumin is lost during the processing step. Raw turmeric also contains more essential oils than processed turmeric, as some of its essential oil value is lost during drying and processing.
Health benefits of turmeric
Dried turmeric has a longer shelf life compared to fresh turmeric, making it easy to store and consume over the long term.
While fresh turmeric contains more curcumin, dried turmeric is more concentrated, making it an effective way to consume higher doses of curcumin.
Dried turmeric is ground into a powder, making it easy to mix into a variety of recipes, teas and supplements.
Studies have shown that curcumin in dry turmeric can inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells, demonstrating the potential for cancer prevention and complementary therapies.
The neuroprotective properties of curcumin in dried turmeric may help improve brain function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties and can help with arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
The antioxidant properties of curcumin in fresh turmeric help neutralise free radicals, protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Rich in vitamins, minerals and essential oils, fresh turmeric strengthens the immune system, boosting the body’s defences against infection and disease.
Fresh and dried turmeric stimulates bile production, aids digestion and improves gut health.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, fresh and dried turmeric can provide natural pain relief for a variety of ailments such as joint and headaches.
Benefits of turmeric for the skin
Turmeric powder has been used for centuries not only in traditional medicine but also in beauty rituals.
Turmeric is rich in antioxidants that neutralise free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative damage, preventing premature ageing and promoting a youthful appearance.
Turmeric powder helps reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots, and promotes an even and bright skin tone.
The slightly grainy texture of turmeric powder acts as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores and revealing fresh, glowing skin.
Thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, turmeric powder effectively fights acne-causing bacteria and reduces the appearance of blemishes.
Turmeric powder helps heal wounds and minor cuts thanks to its antimicrobial properties.
Regular use of turmeric powder can help reduce fine lines and give a more youthful appearance.
Turmeric can help regulate sebum production, making it suitable for both oily and combination skin.
The antioxidants in turmeric help to maintain skin elasticity, prevent sagging and promote a firmer skin texture.
How to eat fresh and dry turmeric
Fresh turmeric – grate or chop fresh turmeric and add to curries, stews, soups, smoothies or teas.
Dried turmeric – add dry turmeric powder to soups, stews, rice dishes or lentil dishes, even sprinkle on salads for a warm and different taste. Turmeric can also be used to make tea and golden milk by mixing it with warm plant milk and a little sweetener.
Unfortunately, the curcumin in turmeric is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream. This reduces its health benefits.
However, adding black pepper can help. Studies confirm that the combination of piperine and curcumin increases curcumin absorption by up to 2000%.
As a result, combining turmeric with black pepper increases its potential health benefits.
How to use turmeric powder for skin
Turmeric face mask – make a paste by mixing turmeric powder with warm water, apply to the face and leave on for 10-15 minutes before washing off. This mask will strengthen and revitalise your skin.
Turmeric body scrub – mix turmeric powder with coconut oil and sugar, add a drop of your favourite essential oil and you have a gentle exfoliating body scrub.
For acne – mix a pinch of turmeric powder with a few drops of water and apply directly to acne or dark spots.
Curcumin: ≥3,5%
