Spices

A Brief History of Turmeric

A Brief History of Turmeric

Turmeric origin & it’s Use

Common Name: Turmeric

Scientific Name: Curcuma longa

Other Names: Kasturi Manjal, Curcuma, Turmeric Root

A Brief History of Turmeric

Turmeric as a plant for medicinal use was used by Indians in the past. Numerous scientists and historians believe that South Asia is the original source of Turmeric and that it may be spread to other countries in South Asia, South East Asia and pacific islands, where Turmeric is grown. It was reported that turmeric was grown in abundance in the forests in Java, Indonesia as early as the 5th century AD. It is believed that Sanskrit texts dating to the 5th the 6th century AD that describe the uses of turmeric. Turmeric is cultivated extensively throughout India, Indonesia, China, Sri Lanka, Peru, Brazil, Java, Taiwan as well as other regions in Africa along with Australia.

Turmeric is known under a variety of names all over the world. There is a lot of evidence that Turmeric may have come out of Turmeric, the Latin name Terra Meritta which refers to sacred soil. Additionally, the term Turmeric could be derived because of its metallic look. It is generally referred to as Saffron across the world. It is in India it is known under many names in different languages like Manjal, in Tamil or Pasupu in Telugu, Malayalam, Arishina in Kannada, Haladi in Sanskrit and  Hindi and many more North Indian languages

Prior to its use to spice food, It was used be a natural dye to clothing and skin as well as as a medication. Turmeric is sometimes called “Indian saffron” because of its deep yellow-orange hue. It’s sometimes used in lieu of saffron since it’s comparable in color and less costly than saffron.

Many people consider Turmeric as a powerful spice due to its richness in antioxidants, and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric Uses:

If you ask a neighbour to lend you some Turmeric and they’ll assume you’re cooking Indian curry. Turmeric is the main element in the curry mix. It is also a key ingredient in Turmeric cake it is a well-known Lebanese dessert. The addition of Turmeric to eggs can change the appearance to a more striking brighter, more yellow-colored. Turmeric is also an important component in dressings for salads that provide a bright, vibrant color.

Medicinal Uses

Turmeric is mentioned in some of the first medical records of plants. It is believed to have been grown within the Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World in around the time of the 8th century BC. A fascinating fact regarding Turmeric is that it’s used to lighten teeth. This is not common given the fact that it’s employed as a dye however it is a whitening agent also. The spice is marketed as a powerful treatment for ailments like sore muscles and bowel inflammation as well as relief from rheumatoid arthritis and cancer prevention, as well as reducing the chance of leukemia in the early years as well as improved the function of the liver and cholesterol levels.