Turmeric: a super polyphenol

Turmeric is a spice that has long been recognised for its medicinal properties as the major source of polyphenol curcumin. It helps with the management of oxidative and inflammatory conditions, such as metabolic syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, depression, it assists with liver function and has anti-cancer properties. In addition, a relatively low dose of the complex can provide health benefits for people that do not have diagnosed health conditions.

It is used worldwide for its potential health benefits and for culinary use. In India, turmeric is used in curries, in Japan for tea, Thailand for cosmetics, Malaysia as antiseptic, Pakistan as an anti inflammatory agent. It is added to many dishes and pre-prepared food items to act as a colourant and preservative.

The fresh rhizome is nobbly on the outside and contains the wonderfully orange colour inside. it can be fine grated and stored in a plastic bag in the freezer for use as needed. It has been used for centuries as a colourant therefore it does stain as does the powder form.

The main problem with curcumin is its poor bioavailability (ability to be used by the body) due to it poor absorption, rapid metabolism and rapid elimination. However, there are several components that increase bioavailabiity such as piperine in black pepper which increases its bioavailability by 2000%

What do polyphenols do ?

They are naturally occurring compounds found mainly in fruits and vegetables and together with other compounds such Vitamins C and E they are referred to as antioxidants. They help to protect the body tissues against oxidative stress and associated pathologies such as cancers, heart disease and inflammation.

Where are they found ?

Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds found especially in dark fruits, vegetables , spices some nuts, black and green tea, coffee and dark chocolate to mention just a few.

Ref:Int J .Mol. Sci. 2023, 24,12167. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512167

Mollies super antioxidant Turmeric latte

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Pinch of ground black pepper -this is the essential ingredient to give 2000% more health benefit.

1 teaspoon honey

1 cup hot milk ( diary/soy/almond/oat)

Method, heat the milk and slowly incorporate into the powders to make a smooth mix. Adjust flavourings to your taste

To make fresh turmeric latte :

Finely grate a tablespoon of fresh turmeric and ginger. Place in a strainer and add to the hot milk along with the cinnamon, honey, and pepper. Swizzle the strainer to release the health-giving powers of the turmeric and ginger.

If you don’t mind drinking the bits and pieces, there is no need to strain the turmeric and ginger.