Let's talk about turmeric!

Let’s talk about turmeric!

Many of us know turmeric for the glorious golden colour it brings to traditional Indian curry powders. With its warm, slightly bitter black-pepper-like flavour it’s easy to see why turmeric has been a popular ingredient for so many centuries in southeast Asia and beyond. 

What is curcumin?

Interestingly, turmeric is related to the ginger root - which makes sense when you look at the similarities in their appearance: small, knobbly rhizomes with vivid orange interiors. Curcumin, a bright yellow chemical produced by the turmeric plant is what lends the roots their incredible colour and what makes turmeric such a tasty addition to so many dishes. 

Is turmeric good for you?

Here at High Teas we are all about the science and although there have been clinical studies into the effectiveness of turmeric in treating various diseases and ailments the evidence for this is low. However, there is much anecdotal evidence to support claims that turmeric can be good for you. Long used in Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties as well as being an effective relief for mild digestive problems such as feelings of fullness and flatulence. 

How to use turmeric

We think that it’s important to keep an open mind when it comes to the healing properties of natural herbs, spices and plants -  if it makes you feel good (and it isn’t doing you any harm) then go for it! We absolutely love the vivid orange colour and peppery taste that turmeric brings to our spicy turmeric chai. Whisk into warm milk and add a touch of sugar for the ultimate turmeric chai! Or why not give our herbal turmeric gold a try: curcuma root combined with pure cocoa shells, fennel, aniseed and vanilla for a mildly spicy brew that makes a fabulous turmeric latte!