Written by Aparna Khanolkar.

Almost everyone has heard of turmeric—But most people often confuse turmeric with curry powder.

Actually, turmeric is the powder of a rhizome. It looks like yellow ginger. Turmeric is part of a curry powder but it is not curry.

Turmeric is an old spice. It grows wild in India, it has been used for over 2500 years and it is known for its purifying and healing benefits.

Growing up in India, I remember that everyone sprinkles turmeric powder on cuts. It stops the bleeding and disinfects the wound.

Of all the spices used abundantly in Indian cooking, turmeric is the first one that is fed to babies who are ready for solid foods.

A tiny bit of ghee, some mashed up rice, a tiny bit of turmeric and salt often comprises a baby’s first meal.

It is also used ceremonially as it is considered to have the energy of Mother Divine herself.

When lime is added to turmeric, it turns into a brilliant red colored powder and is used for adorning the third eye of many Indian women as bindi. Brides are massaged with the paste of turmeric and sandalwood powder the day before the wedding. This ritual is for beautification and purification.

How can you use turmeric in your daily health regimen?

First, whatever you do, please don’t use them in capsule form. Although it has tremendous healing benefits such as anti-inflammation, blood purifier, liver cleanser, it works best when cooked in warm oil and combined with other spices and foods. Don’t add it at the very end in your soup or sprinkle it on a salad.

We eat with our senses and the rich yellow hue of turmeric will pleasantly tickle your palate and attract your eyes. After all, food must taste good and also look appealing.

Here is a delicious spice blend that you can prepare and store in a jar. Use it for a curry or for marinating chicken or fish.

[yumprint-recipe id=’70’]Enjoy cooking with turmeric.

PS. It’s good for you.

Bonus:

Listen to the latest Green Divas Foodie-Philes podcast for more great green recipe ideas…

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~Asst. Ed. Green Diva Christine | Main image via shutterstock.com