Asian cuisine is becoming increasingly popular. It’s no wonder, as special ingredients are used to create truly unique dishes. But beyond the unusual flavours, we also hear a lot about the positive effects of Asian ingredients on our health.
Ginger is one of the most basic ingredients in Asian cuisine, as is its sister, turmeric, which also belongs to the ginger family. It has a slightly bitter, pungent taste similar to ginger, which is why it is also known as yellow ginger. In India it has been used for centuries as a spice and herb, but in our country it is mainly known as a spice, giving a beautiful bright yellow colour to food.
Curcumin, a powerful antioxidant
However, turmeric is not only useful in the kitchen, it can also be of great benefit to our health. It owes its yellow colour to a polyphenol called curcumin, a yellow dye, which is a powerful antioxidant and therefore has antiviral (antiviral), antibacterial, anticarcinogenic (anticancer), anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as helping to bind free radicals that are harmful to the body, thus protecting the immune system. Its mechanism of action is very similar to flavonoids.
Helps our digestive system, protects our joints
As with ginger, it has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, helping to prevent gallstones, flush out existing stones and reduce toxins in the gut. It stimulates the metabolism of fats, thus helping to lose weight, but it can also be used effectively in cases of fullness or intestinal spasms. It helps liver function and lowers blood levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
It can also be effective for arthritic complaints and problems, as it increases the production of the hormone cortisol in the body, which reduces inflammation. As a result, it can also be a great remedy for fever.
It can also be used for beauty care
In India, turmeric is also used for beauty care. It is dissolved in a little water and then washed on the face. It is excellent for cleansing pores and regulating sebum production and collagen production internally.
Use regularly
So, use turmeric regularly to protect your immune system, for balanced digestion and for the proper functioning of your joints. Use it to colour and flavour your food, it goes well with cereals, rice, vegetables, curries, soups, but also with white meats and fish. It can be served with almost any dish. It is mainly available in powder form in our country, but fresh turmeric is occasionally available in Asian shops. Whatever you use it for, be careful, as its yellow colour can easily stain your skin and clothes!