Turmeric Powder | How to make your own

Turmeric is a spice used in many food dishes today. It comes from the root of the Cucuma longa plant, which is part of the Ginger family. It is a superfood with medicinal properties and worth adding to your spice cabinet. One of the prominent active ingredients is Curcumi, which is said to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. It also shows promise in helping with depression. There are so many wonderful benefits of adding Turmeric to your diet that it’s a no brainer! To learn more about the benefits of Curcumin, check out this article.

Here are some of the potential benefits of turmeric:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Curcumin is known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is believed to contribute to various diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions. Turmeric may help in managing inflammation.
2. Antioxidant Activity: Turmeric possesses antioxidant properties that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals can contribute to aging and various diseases, and antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from damage.
3. Joint Health: Some research suggests that turmeric may be beneficial for individuals with joint conditions due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Heart Health: Turmeric may contribute to heart health by improving the function of the endothelium (the lining of blood vessels), reducing inflammation, and having a positive impact on several factors that contribute to heart disease.
5. Brain Health: Curcumin has been investigated for its potential role in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. It may cross the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that could be protective for brain health.
6. Digestive Health: Turmeric may aid in digestion by stimulating bile production, which helps in the breakdown of fats. It is also believed to have a role in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive disorders.
7. Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that curcumin may have anti-cancer properties by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells. However, more research is needed in this area to establish definitive conclusions.
8. Skin Health: Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may be beneficial for the skin. It has been used traditionally to treat various skin conditions and is sometimes included in skincare products.
9. Blood Sugar Regulation: Some research indicates that turmeric may help regulate blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

It’s essential to note that while turmeric has potential health benefits, the concentration of curcumin in turmeric is relatively low. For therapeutic purposes, curcumin supplements may be considered, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Additionally, incorporating turmeric into your diet can be a flavorful and health-promoting addition to a variety of dishes.

How to Make Turmeric Powder

This blog post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission to fund my houseplant habit if you use these links to make a purchase. You will not be charged extra, and you’ll keep me in the garden. It’s a win for everyone, really.

List:

Gloves

Sharp Knife

Cutting Board

Grinder or Mortar & Pestle

Air-Tight Container

Dehydrator or Oven

Buy Turmeric

I chose to buy organic Turmeric, but feel free to purchase what you have access to nearby.

Clean your Turmeric

I gave my Turmeric a good rinse in the sink to make sure there wasn’t any dirt or debris. You don’t need to peel your Turmeric. You will dry and grind up the skin with the root.

Using your cutting board and knife, slice your Turmeric roots into round slices. You can also slice them lengthwise. No matter how you slice them be sure they are not to thick. Be sure to put your gloves on before you begin slicing. Turmeric will temporarily stain your fingers, cutting board and clothing.

Oven Instructions:

Lay your sliced Turmeric out on a parchment lined pan. Set your oven to 200 degrees. You will need to check your Turmeric every 30 mins making sure it’s drying. Once your pieces have reduced in size and are hard, they are done.

Dehydrator Instructions:

If you are using a dehydrator, you will want to follow the directions for drying. My dehydrator took about 12 hours to dry. I checked the slices every three hours to make sure they were drying properly.

Grind:

When your Turmeric has dried, it’s grinding time! I ground my Turmeric using this grinder from Amazon. If you prefer Mortar & Pestle, it’ll require more effort but it’s always worth it.

Storage:

Now that you’ve made Turmeric powder, it’s time to store it in an airtight container. Stored this way, your powder can last for 3-4 years.

Now you have your own stash of this amazing spice. You can use it in your everyday cooking including baking and smoothies; the list goes on! How will you use your Turmeric powder?

Happy Gardening