Indian cooking has always been associated with its perfect blend of spices. Amongst these is Turmeric, also lovingly known as Haldi. Turmeric is what gives Indian food that beautiful yellow colour and it’s one of the most nutritious spices in the world. A cherished cousin of ginger, turmeric is a root that accounts for an excess of uses in our kitchens and lives. Bright orange-yellow in colour with a heady fragrance, turmeric has a unique earthy taste, with a touch of citrusy bitterness and the numbing punch of pepper. Its incredible list of healing properties includes antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic and anti-inflammatory which makes it an essential ingredient and the reason your Naani insists on adding it to everything.

Indian kitchens have already discovered countless uses for turmeric in their dishes. ts usage has been long embedded in the ancient Ayurvedic practice and has been cited to promote the holistic health of the body – this has resulted in increased usage of it in the Western world too. Considering the number of health benefits it has to offer, this powerful spice can be added to a variety of dishes in order to keep improving the quality of our lives. Add turmeric powder to curries, smoothies, warm milk, salads, stir-fried dishes and in just about any other way you feel like. While there are turmeric supplements also available, raw turmeric is considered to be the most effective. Here are some benefits of using Haldi in your cooking.

Relief from Arthritic Pain

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties have been instrumental in treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The antioxidant also destroys the free radicals in the body that damage the cells. Anybody suffering from the condition should consume the spice on a daily basis to relieve themselves of mild joint pains and inflammation, though it should be understood that it does not stand as a substitute for medication.

Improves Digestion

When consumed raw while suffering from a digestive problem, turmeric can help treat the condition. The major components of the spice stimulate the gallbladder to produce bile, instantly making the digestive system more efficient. It is also known to reduce symptoms of bloating and gas.

Lipopolysaccharide – a substance in turmeric with anti-bacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal agents helps stimulate the human immune system. Take a teaspoon of the spice powder in a glass of warm milk daily and you’ll see it work wonders as it reduces your chances of catching flu.

Healing Properties

Turmeric is every mother’s pet suggestion to treat any cut, burn or infection. Its natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties make it an effective disinfectant. The powder can be sprinkled on the affected area to help it heal faster. Instead of turning to a pill, the next time you experience an upset stomach or heartburn, try this super spice instead.

Turmeric can be consumed in either food or used in skin care because of its long list of positive attributes. Now, we know you’ve been to countless Haldi ceremonies where brides and bridegrooms are doused in Milk and Haldi to make them glow on their happy day. But haldi can be so much more!

Here’s how to incorporate Haldi in your skin care for that beautiful supple glow:

Heat up a teaspoon of raw honey in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.

In a dish, combine the honey with a teaspoon of turmeric and a teaspoon of milk or yoghurt.

Wash your face, pull your hair back, and apply the Mask to your face using your fingers or a spoon. If you don’t want your fingers stained yellow, wear gloves when applying the mask.

Relax for 20 to 30 minutes as you let the mask dry and harden.

Rinse the mask off with warm water, moving your fingers in tiny circles to take advantage of turmeric’s exfoliating ability.

This turmeric mask will help clear and smooth your skin, minimize the appearance of pores, and make your skin appear fuller and plumper. If the turmeric stains your face, simply wipe it off with a facial toner.

Turmeric Potion

For all the Harry Potter fans, here’s an easy-to-make concoction that will make your happy and healthy.

Boil two cups of water.

Add half a teaspoon of ground turmeric.

Stir, and then cover.

Simmer for 10 minutes.

Filter through a tea strainer.

Sip and enjoy.

You can drink this cold or hot. Add a sweetener such as honey, or drop a piece of ginger root into your mug to punch up the taste.

The next time your Naani asks you what you’re up to, tell her, her advice the reason you have glowing skin!