I have a few super tasty recipes at the bottom of the post if you want to try your hand at this superfood!
Gender: Female
Element: Fire
Planet: Sun, Mars
Zodiac Sign: N/A
Celtic Zodiac/ Date: N/A
Lunar Month: N/A
Tarot: N/A
Rune: N/A
Ogham: N/A
Crystal: N/A
Deities: Kali, Naaga, Sakthi, Vishnu
Associated Festival: N/A
Chakras: Sacral, Solar Plexus
Birth Month: N/A
Meaning: healing, purification
Type: Perennial Root Spice
Grows in Zone: 8-11
Plant for Bees?: No
Natural pesticide?: Yes- Mosquito repellent
Poisonous/ Toxic: No- Can be used to treat scorpion stings
Turmeric is a perennial, rhizomatous, herbaceous plant native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, which requires a considerable amount of annual rainfall to thrive. Use of turmeric dates back nearly 4,000 years. It is a principle spice but also has been cultivated for medicinal use and as a major component in religious ceremonies. It is grown in many warm regions of the world. Turmeric can be found growing extensively in all of India, but does especially well in the regions of Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Maharashtra. It is also cultivated in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, China, Taiwan, Indochina, Peru, Haiti, and Jamaica. India is the largest producer in the world; Jamaica and Peru are the chief exporters, and Iran the largest importer. Other large importers are the United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and the Middle East. The food industry employs it as a colorant for cheeses, sausage and confectionary
Turmeric became valuable to humans when it was discovered that the powdered rhizome preserved the freshness and nutritive value of foods. It was originally used in curries and other food to improve storage conditions, palatability, and preservation. Because of its preservation properties, turmeric played a vital role in survival and sustainability in South Asia , and was valued more than gold and precious stones.
Turmeric has cultural and religious significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and throughout southeast Asian society. It is used in the traditional medicines of its native India. Not only that, it is used extensively in Hindu religious rituals.
Even today, Hindu people consider turmeric to have auspicious qualities, and use it in many sacred ceremonies. It is commonly made into a paste and applied to the forehead (ajna chakra or third eye) during pujas (devotional ceremonies) and weddings. During a traditional Indian wedding ceremony, the bride and groom apply a paste of turmeric and sandalwood powder on each other’s foreheads. Some women use it as a cosmetic, called “Kappumanjal” or rub it over their bodies as a detergent. Traditionally, turmeric was also used to dye the marriage clothing. It was believed that any clothing dyed with turmeric was protection from fever.
Turmeric is used pre-ceremony in Hindu wedding traditions. In this ceremony, the bride and the groom are adorned with turmeric paste and then bathed with milk. This ceremony is meant to make their bodies and minds pure before the wedding ceremony.
Turmeric has been long associated with the Goddess Kali. The Goddess of cycles, birth, death and rebirth. It is often offered to the Goddess in the form of water.
Turmeric has a long history of use, not just as a spice, but also as a healing agent and as a magical herb. When Europeans were first introduced to it they often falsely identified it as Saffron. However, while it serves perfectly as a dye for all sorts of substances, its properties and flavor do no not compare to those of Saffron. Turmeric is a yellow spice and one of the most effective natural nutritional supplements you can use.
A brightly colored Asian spice, turmeric is a close relative of ginger. Its knobbly rhizome can be used fresh or dried to make tinctures or herbal infusions. Turmeric is found in many Asian cuisines and recipes, most notably curry. Grate or chop turmeric into soups and sauces. It will add color and a gingery flavor.
Modern science is beginning to recognize and understand the amazing healing qualities of turmeric and much research is currently being conducted. The bright neon yellow color comes from the phytochemical curcumin. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. Scientists have found by creating a new molecule from curcumin, called CNB-001, this molecule triggers the mechanisms that safeguard and restore brain cells after a stroke. Curcumin protects brain cells by binding to and dissolving abnormal proteins. Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in your brain. It has been shown to be an extremely effective natural mood enhancer. It has increased effects on depression, Alzheimer’s and other problematic issues which stem from the brain. A study in 60 people with depression showed that curcumin was as effective as Prozac in alleviating symptoms of the condition.
Curcumin has neuro-protective and anti-aging effects on the brain, anti-inflammatory effects on the body, and slows spread of many types of cancer. Curcumin has been found to possess the ability to slow and kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Curcumin is currently being tested in 16 clinical cancer trials including prostate, breast, colon, liver, lung, pancreas, lymphoma, leukemia, and osteosarcoma.
The active properties of curcumin are best called “protective properties”. The same components that prevent deterioration of food protect living tissue from degenerating, possibly extending the life span of our bodies. Clinical and laboratory research indicates that diets that include turmeric or curcumin “stabilize and protect biomolecules in the body at the molecular level”, which is shown in its anti-oxidant, anti- mutagenic, and anti-carcinogenic action. These components may work by protecting a person directly, by shielding the biomolecules, or indirectly, by stimulating the natural detoxification and defense mechanisms of the body: helping the body to heal and preserve itself naturally. Current statistics show that 98% of all diseases are controlled by a molecule called NF-Kappa B, a powerful protein that promotes abnormal inflammatory response in the body. Excess of NF-Kappa B can lead to Cancer, Arthritis, and a wide range of other diseases. Studies show that curcumin subdues NF-Kappa B, meaning that it may work to prevent nearly all diseases afflicting our world today
Scientists are beginning to realize the importance of turmeric/curcumin in treating modern disease. Much research has been conducted on the various effects of curcumin in the body; the most widely researched is that of its effects on Cancer. In both India and Pakistan , where curry/turmeric is a dietary staple, boast much lower incidence of cancer than in other countries where turmeric is not regularly consumed.
“We have not found a single cancer on which curcumin does not work”, states Dr. Bharat Aggarwal, who conducts cancer research at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research in Bangalore , India. Ayurveda especially recommends turmeric for cancers of the female reproductive system, specifically breast and uterine cancer, and to treat benign tumors as well. Although the current research looks promising, there have been very few long term tests performed on large quantities of humans.
Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antibacterial, antiseptic, antioxidant, antispasmodic, astringent, analgesic, blood purifier, anti-arthritic, skin tonic, and can be used to improve skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. It has been linked to reducing scars and aid in the relief of other skin issues such as psoriasis. By removing dirt and toxins it lightens and brightens the skin.
Witch Tip: Turmeric paste is a natural material that cures acne and lightens your skin. Make a poultice by mixing turmeric with milk or use a face mask containing turmeric to give your skin a healthy glow!
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and healing properties which makes it a great first aid for scorpion bites/stings. Out of the 2000 species of the scorpion, only 25-40 of them transmit venom sufficient to cause serious harm to humans. The majority of scorpions are harmless. For those that do cause harm, turmeric acts as an antidote. One can sprinkle some amount of turmeric on the scorpion bite/sting area or can make a paste of turmeric with water and apply over the wound for stinging and swelling relief.
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory. It contains more than two dozen anti-inflammatory compounds — six of which block the enzyme that causes pain and inflammation. Turmeric has been shown to be helpful in the treatment of Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, injuries, trauma, and stiffness from both under activity and over activity. This is a great herb for those suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome.
Some research shows that taking turmeric extracts, alone or in combination with other herbal ingredients, can reduce pain and improve function in people with knee osteoarthritis. In some research, turmeric worked about as well as ibuprofen for reducing osteoarthritis pain.
Turmeric’s active antioxidant ingredients act to lower blood lipids and cholesterol and prevent blood clot formation. It is a great digestive aid for breaking down fatty foods. Clinical trials have shown it to successfully reduce cholesterol levels. It’s also known to strengthen blood vessels. Its properties can help to relieve arterial blockages.
Turmeric has also been used to treat a myriad of digestive disorders. It is an excellent stomach and liver herb. Curcumin optimizes function of the liver, the body’s primary organ of detoxification. It is used for jaundice and to stimulate gallbladder activity. Turmeric has germicidal properties and studies have shown that it can effectively combat H. pylori, which is now found to be the major culprit in causing gastric ulcers. It helps prevent gas and bloating as well as has been shown to heal stomach ulcers.
It can improve digestion and also aid in fat metabolism and weight management. By increasing the metabolic rate of your body, it is able to aid in weight loss which can help prevent or reduce obesity.
Turmeric regulates menses, and decreases the intensity and pain of menstrual periods, and of uterine tumors. Turmeric is a mild and supportive uterine stimulant and its many actions on the liver suggest that it may assist in balancing hormone levels as well. It has seen success is combating UTIs and irritable bowel syndrome.
Turmeric and its beautiful coloring has many metaphysical properties associated with it. The golden yellow and orange coloring is associated with its main meaning of healing and health. Turmeric is effective for cleansing the chakras. Turmeric, which promotes both purity of mind and body, helps to clear these channels for the proper flow of energy to the chakras. This spice has a long history of purification. The orange and yellow coloring of Turmeric adds to the color yellow signifying the space between chastity and sensuality, and the sacral chakra. It represents the sun, giving life and rebirth. Turmeric is also said to raise confidence and courage. It is associated with auspicious beginnings in Indian Hindu culture.
Recipes
There are many great ways to take in this aromatic spice. It is a popular spice used in curry dishes but it can also be added to other everyday cooking.
Witch Tip: Add ¼ to ½ tsp of turmeric powder to cooked veggies along with olive oil, black pepper, and salt.
Turmeric Weight Loss Tea
Make tea with finely sliced or grated turmeric root.
½ cup turmeric powder
Pinch of black pepper (necessary to increase absorption)
¼ cup cinnamon powder
2 tsp cloves
1-2 tbsp ground ginger
½ tsp of cayenne (optional)
Steep in hot water along with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger root. Sweeten with local honey before drinking. You can also make it without the cinnamon or cloves.
Note: Black pepper contains piperine which is needed to absorb curcumin. Without it, the body does has difficulty absorbing curcumin. Piperine with turmeric can increase curcumin absorption by 2,000%. Together, these ingredients can increase your metabolism for faster weight loss. Adding ginger has a thermogenic effect which raises the body’s temperature by burning stored fat. This can help burn through stubborn belly, thigh, back, and visceral fat. Some people have even been able to lose 2lbs in 2 days when included with a healthy diet.
Turmeric Golden Milk
A very popular way to drink turmeric is in golden milk. The simplest way to make golden milk is by simmering a pinch of turmeric in one to two cups of milk for about five minutes. Cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper can also be added along with a touch of honey as a sweetener.
2 cups of milk
1tsp turmeric
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp cardamom
1 tsp raw honey or maple syrup to taste
Pinch of black pepper (necessary to increase absorption)
Small piece of ginger root or ¼ tsp ginger powder (optional)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
First, blend all the ingredients in a high speed blender until smooth. Then, pour into a small sauce pan and heat for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until not quite boiling. Drink immediately.
Turmeric Smoothie
1 cup coconut milk
½ cup frozen pineapple or mango chunks
1 fresh banana
1tbsp coconut oil
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp ginger
1 tsp chia seeds
1 tsp maca (optional)
Add everything together and blend on high for 1 minute.
Use level: Easy
Nothing on this website should be taken as medical or legal advice. Please use herbs responsibly. Always consult your doctor before using any kind of supplements.
From our altar to yours, with love from the sea,
