Farm-Fresh Turmeric Powder
Turmeric, a perennial, herbaceous plant called Curcuma Longa in botanical terminology, belongs to the ginger family of plants. It produces rhizomes-like roots which are pungent and edible and widely used as a spice in Asian cuisine. It is also a native crop of India and has medicinal, cosmetic, as well as culinary uses. It is also well known for its tremendous health benefits.
The initial processing involves cleaning the turmeric rhizomes by boiling and steaming them to attain a uniform colour. The rhizomes are then kept in alkaline water for some time and then boiled in water. They are then dried immediately to prevent overcooking, at the same time maintaining minimum moisture content. They are then pounded or milled, and seived to get the final powdered product.
Raw materials
Naturally grown fresh turmeric rhizomes are used to make pure turmeric powder. Extreme caution is exercised not to over-process as it may lead to losing the vital nutrients present in turmeric.
Health Benefits:
- Turmeric is as good a food as it is a common medicine, used daily in households.
- It is used as a spice in Asian dishes giving them a distinct yellow colour
- It is used in sweet dishes, biscuits, sauces, savouries, curries and curry powders, pickles, juices etc., mainly for its anti-bacterial property
- World over it is used in food confectionery industries as well as in household preparations
- As it has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, choleretic and carminative properties, it is used as medicine to treat the common cold, arthritis, skin cancer, smallpox, chicken pox, and many types of infections and liver ailments and many such chronic diseases.
- It is also used to treat cuts, burns, and bruises. Also applied to the skin to treat infections, remove unwanted hair, and prevent further infections.
- Turmeric also finds use in the manufacture of herbal medicines and cosmetics such as sunscreens and acne treatment creams.
- Turmeric is used not only in traditional medicines but also in modern-day medicines.
- Turmeric also has a culturally important role – it is considered auspicious in Indian households as it is used regularly during puja. Also used to remove negativity from around homes.