Turmeric, the golden-colored strongly flavored spice, is having a “moment.” This ancient spice, celebrated for centuries as both food and medicine, has resurfaced within the health and nutrition communities thanks to curcumin, the healing substance which supplies its vibrant color. Curcumin has significant anti-inflammatory properties that are said to rival those found in ibuprofen. Unlike over-the-counter drugs, turmeric has no toxic effects on the body. Curcumins powerful antioxidant advantages have been shown to protect healthy cells, particularly those found in the colon, from cancer-causing agents. It aids the body in destroying mutated cancer cells before they have a chance to spread to other areas. Turmeric also helps to lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease. All that, and it's tasty too!
Turmeric's botanical name is Curcuma longa. The plant reaches barely three feet in height and produces both a flower and a rhizome, or stem that is found underground. The rhizome has an appearance similar to ginger; it is this root-like stem that produces the yellow turmeric spice. Though it can now be found throughout the tropics, India has been the largest producer of turmeric since ancient times.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa L) is an ancient and sacred spice of India known as ‘Indian saffron" is an important commercial spice crop grown in India. Turmeric is extensively used as a stimulant, blood purifier, carminative tonic as well as remedy against skin diseases, itches, pain, and is anti-helminthic. The world production of turmeric stands around 8 lakh tonnes, of which the contribution of India is approximately 75-80 percent. India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric in the world. Turmeric is cultivated throughout India covering an area of 2.08 lakh hectares with an annual production of 1029 million tonnes and productivity of 5.1 metric tonnes per hectare (National Horticultural Board, 2014). In India, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh are the leading turmeric growing states.
Salem & Erode around the area is a popular cultivar of Tamil Nadu rich in curcumin content. India grows nearly 50 types of turmeric, so what makes Salem and Erode variety so unique? This turmeric is smaller and more slender. Plus, it has a high curcumin content of around 3.9%. as it has 90 percent curcumin content. The loamy red and black soil of the area is believed to be the reason behind the distinctive brilliant yellow color, as well as its characteristic sweet taste and aroma, making it the preferred choice of commercial curry powder manufacturers in India and abroad.
Disclaimer: The article prepared referred to a various source and the personal opinion of the Author - SKMart NWA who is not an expert. These details are shared in favor of the organic benefit.