The bright, yellow-orange spice commonly known as turmeric is related to ginger. It is available as a ground spice or in supplements and other beauty and dermatology products.
Turmeric gets its health benefits primarily because of curcumin, a bioactive component.
Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as a medical herb and spice owing to its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
But did you know raw turmeric has more benefits than powder turmeric that all of us commonly use for cooking?
Yes, raw turmeric can provide health benefits which turmeric powder can not.
Difference Between Fresh and Dried Turmeric | Reasons Why Raw Turmeric Is Better Than Powder Turmeric
Turmeric oil is one constituent which is lost when you process turmeric which is one of the reasons why raw turmeric has more health benefits than powder turmeric.
Similarly, there are several other constituents which are lost during processing.
Difference Between Fresh and Dried Turmeric
Fresh Turmeric
Fresh turmeric rhizomes (often called roots) look similar to ginger, a close relative. Like ginger, fresh rhizomes have a livelier flavor than dried.
Turmeric’s bright orange flesh is earthy, peppery, and slightly bitter. Like ginger, turmeric may be cut into coins, matchsticks, or cubes; grated with a microplane or cheese grater; and juiced or thrown into smoothies.
Fresh turmeric may be found in the produce section of well-stocked grocery stores, health food stores, and Asian and Indian grocery stores.
Choose firm rhizomes and avoid soft, dried, or shriveled ones. Store fresh turmeric in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or airtight container for a week or two, or freeze it for several months.
Dried Turmeric
Dried turmeric is made by peeling, boiling, and drying the rhizomes, which are then sold whole or ground.
Turmeric loses some of its essential oils and pungency in the drying process but it can still provide warmth and color.
For the best flavor use whole fingers and grind them as needed using a microplane or spice grinder.
When purchasing dried turmeric look to ethnic and specialty spice shops that often have fresher stock and faster turnover than regular grocery stores.
Aroma is often a better indicator of quality than color, which can vary from yellow to orange.
Store dried turmeric in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Reasons Why Raw Turmeric Is Better Than Powder Turmeric
1. Digestive Tract Benefits
Raw turmeric contains curcumin which helps trigger bile production, which is considered to help the digestive system. Consumption of raw turmeric may also help reduce the symptoms of indigestion and alleviate heartburn.
According to The National Institute of Health, use of turmeric can also treat stomach ulcers. However, it should always be taken in moderate amounts as high doses can cause stomach irritation.
2. Provides Relief From a Host of Stomach Problems
The star compound curcumin can put most of your tummy woes to rest.
Raw turmeric may help to lower indigestion and heartburn and provide relief from symptoms like irritable bowel syndrome. Experts say that consumption of raw turmeric may also help treat stomach ulcers and irritation.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Raw turmeric is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful in easing the symptoms associated with rheumatic conditions.
Because of this reason, it is often used as part of the course of treatment for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Besides, it can also help with the pain and loss of mobility that occur due to these conditions.
4. Good for Skin
The antioxidants present in raw turmeric can help curb the free radical activity, which can boost skin health.Using raw haldi is one of the oldest and traditional ways to cure a variety of skin ailments. It is also known to cure skin problems caused dues to air pollution.
5. Excellent Antiseptic
Kacchi Haldi could be a perfect ointment to any kind of cuts or injuries. Curcumin, the therapeutic component of turmeric is packed with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties which boosts healing.The curcumin present in raw turmeric is renowned for its excellent antiseptic properties.
6. Pain Removal
Raw haldi’s incredible anti-inflammatory properties makes it an excellent pain reliever.
You can have it with warm milk and your pain would begin to recede almost immediately.It can be applied in paste form on affected area or consumed with milk for best effects.
7. Prevents Heart Problems and Stroke
Consumption of raw turmeric also helps prevent heart disease, heart attack and stroke. It not only helps stop atherosclerosis, the build-up but also prevents blood clots.
8. Acts as Blood Purifier
Raw turmeric can also help eliminating toxins from blood. Several studies and experts have identified raw turmeric’s role in purifying blood. It also regulates blood clot formation.
9. Kacchi Haldi for Skin
For hundreds of years, people around the world have linked turmeric to healing properties and cosmetic benefits.
Modern scientific research is just beginning to study the positive impact of turmeric, but many believe it has several beneficial uses for the skin.
Here are some ways turmeric may benefit your skin. It contains properties that contribute to a natural glow.
10. Turmeric Contains Antioxidants and Anti Inflammatory Components
These characteristics may provide glow and luster to the skin. Turmeric may also revive your skin by bringing out its natural glow. It may also help with acne scarring.
You may want to try a turmeric face mask to help reduce acne and any resulting scars. The anti-inflammatory qualities can target your pores and calm the skin.
Turmeric is also known to reduce scarring. This combination of uses may help your face clear up from acne breakouts. It may help with a range of other dermatological conditions.
There aren’t enough studies to provide conclusive evidence about how turmeric can help other skin conditions. However, it’s suggested that it can help with eczema, alopecia, lichen planus, and other skin issues.
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This information was very helpful and I will start to use raw turmeric from now on
Hi Lee! Thank you for sharing your valuable feedback on our article, it explains the benefits of raw turmeric. Keep following our blog to know more health information.
Yeah good information!
Hi Candle! Thank you, keep following our blog to know more health information.