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Herbs & Botanicals
Product Description
Botanical Name: Curcuma longa
Plant Family: Zingiberaceae (Ginger family)
Botanical Description:
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly India and Indonesia. It typically grows between 90 to 180 centimetres in height, featuring long, lanceolate leaves arranged in two rows along the stem. Turmeric produces rhizomes, which are underground stems that give rise to new shoots and roots. The rhizomes are bright orange-yellow in colour and have a distinctively earthy aroma and warm, slightly bitter taste. Turmeric plants may also produce spikes of small, pale yellow flowers, although these are less commonly seen as the plant is primarily cultivated for its rhizomes.
Introduction:
Turmeric has been revered for its medicinal properties and culinary uses for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations in India and China. It is perhaps best known for its vibrant golden colour and warm, aromatic flavour, which have made it a staple ingredient in traditional cuisines around the world. Beyond its culinary applications, turmeric has a long history of use in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its diverse therapeutic benefits.
Preparations:
Powder: Ground turmeric rhizomes can be used as a culinary spice or added to smoothies, juices, teas, or soups. Turmeric powder can also be used to make golden milk, a traditional Ayurvedic beverage made by combining turmeric with milk and spices like cinnamon and ginger.
Tincture: Prepare a turmeric tincture by macerating fresh or dried turmeric rhizomes in alcohol (such as vodka or brandy) for several weeks. Strain the tincture and store it in a dark glass bottle. Take the tincture orally by diluting it in water or juice according to the dosage instructions provided on the product label or by a qualified herbalist.
Infusion: Prepare a turmeric infusion by steeping dried turmeric in hot water for 6-12 minutes. Strain and drink the infusion as a tea.
Capsules: Turmeric powder and extract is available in capsule form for convenience. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner for appropriate dosing.