Hey There:)

Today is the start of the SDSummer Challenge and I am feeling Good (hope you are too!).

I wanted to share a little info on one of my favorite spices: Turmeric!

Have you heard of it? I am sure you have, I think it’s becoming the new kale, in terms of popularity.

Turmeric is a member of the ginger family, its bright orange color and its shape (when fresh) is like a little finger;)

Turmeric is most commonly used in curry dishes as it’s a big part of the wellness culture in India. Pretty much every time you’re eating curry you’re eating Turmeric.

The Health Benefits Of Turmeric

Turmeric is anti-inflammatory, which is super important for me as I’m a runner; but it’s also great for healing arthritis, joint & muscle pain. There have even been studies done that link the root cause of  cancer to inflammation. Pretty much you want to avoid inflammation at all costs.

Hop aboard the Anti-Inflammation Lifestyle

• Turmeric is great for Detox, it contains curcumin; a liver detoxing property.
• Turmeric helps skin issues like eczema  & psoriasis; you can even apply it topically!
• Turmeric has been used for centuries to heal cuts, bruises and scrapes. It’s a natural antibacterial/antiseptic agent.

Here’s the thing: Turmeric has been used in other countries like India, China and the Polynesian Islands for centuries. It’s been a big part of the Ayurveda and Chinese medical techniques for just as long. These cultures are a lot healthier than our western society… therefore, I am taking note, and you should too! Pass the Turmeric:)

PS – Fresh turmeric doesn’t have a strong flavor, so you don’t have to worry about taste. Personally I think it has a nice floral flavor:)

Let’s Make a Mock-Tail

(because alcohol is the opposite of turmeric, inflammatory!)

The Summer Detox

Ingredients

• Cucumber
• Lemon
• Turmeric (fresh)
• Grapefruit
• Ginger (fresh)
• Water
• Ice Cubes

Directions

Slice cucumber, grapefruit and lemon, put into cups or a big pitcher. Peel ginger and turmeric and grade/shred into cups or pitcher. Add water & ice.

Notes

• The amount of produce will depend on how much you want to make (you can’t mess up this recipe).
• We like to make individual drinks & big pitchers that we can drink throughout the day.
• If you can’t find fresh ginger or turmeric, then dried powder form works as well.
• Our mason jars are made into cups, thanks to Cuppow, we are obsessed!

Other ways we like to use Turmeric

• In Nut Milks (add turmeric and milk to blender and blend)
• In  Juice (no need to peel first)
• In Tea (use fresh or powder)
• In our Sweet Potato Macaroni and Cheez (In the Mastermind)
• In Soups and Curry Dishes (or a combination for a curry soup recipe)

Have you used Turmeric before? If so, how? And if, not which one of these ideas sounds best to you?