The creative powers of Turmeric!

Turmeric is a flowering plant, ['Curcuma longa'] of the ginger  family and is used in cooking. It has a spicy, warming and aromatic flavour, making frequent appearances in its native, Indian and Southeast Asian dishes. 

Turmeric has also been used for medicinal purposes for many centuries (regaining popularity over recent years). A major reason for this is because Turmeric contains Curcumin which is high in antioxidants and anti inflammatories. These help brain functioning, as well as improving memory, focus and reduce stress and anxiety.

So big stuff!

Turmeric is also caffeine free, which means you could swap 3pm coffee fix for a warming turmeric latte. It is an enlivening, energising, holistic alternative to a standard cup'o'joe. Giving you energy in a sustainable way, whilst also helping focus and subsequent creative thinking.  

Turmeric in its natural form is a root (very similar to Ginger root), but when dried and ground down, can be made into a powder - perfect for cooking, used on the skin or for making turmeric lattes! 

Its no wonder more and more of us our hopping on the turmeric latte bandwagon - its a good bandwagon! But a handy tip is that if you are incorporating turmeric into your diet (through weekly smoothies, homemade stews, soups or curries..) ensure you pair it with a generous sprinkle of black pepper.

Like Turmeric and Curcumin, Black pepper contains ample amounts of piperine. "Piperine enhances curcumin absorption in the body by up to 2,000%, combining the spices magnifies their effects. They may reduce inflammation and improve digestion, particularly in supplement form."

Why not have a look at our favourite recipes below, click on the image and try one! We'd love to know your thoughts over on instagram @merakimailouts if you have any you'd also like to share. 

Red Lentil Dhal - Domestic Gothess

Lemon Turmeric Bliss Balls - Veggie Kins

Spiced Cauliflower, Courgette and Yellow Rice - Domestic Gothess

Turmeric Banana Bread - My Recipes