Dry Turmeric

Here are detailed insights on Dry Turmeric / Haldi:


General Information

  • Botanical Name: Curcuma longa

  • Common Names:

    • Turmeric, Haldi (Hindi), Manjal (Tamil), Haridra (Sanskrit), Pasupu (Telugu)

  • Family: Zingiberaceae (Ginger family)

  • Form: Dried rhizomes (whole) or ground into golden-yellow powder

  • Taste & Aroma: Earthy, slightly bitter, warm, with a mild peppery aroma

  • Color: Bright yellow to orange due to curcumin, the active compound


Culinary Uses

  • Essential spice in Indian curries, dals, and rice dishes

  • Used in pickles, spice blends (sambar powder, garam masala), and herbal teas

  • Common in golden milk (haldi doodh) and Ayurvedic drinks

  • Natural food coloring and preservative in traditional cooking


Health Benefits

  1. Powerful Anti-inflammatory – Curcumin helps reduce inflammation and pain in joints

  2. Boosts Immunity – Natural antibacterial and antiviral properties

  3. Supports Liver Detox – Enhances liver function and bile production

  4. Antioxidant-Rich – Protects cells from oxidative stress

  5. Improves Digestion – Stimulates bile flow and relieves gas and bloating

  6. Promotes Skin Health – Clears acne, heals wounds, and adds glow (used externally in face packs)

  7. Regulates Blood Sugar – Supports insulin sensitivity

  8. Heart Health – Helps lower cholesterol and prevent blood clots


Nutritional Value (per 100g approx.)

  • Calories: ~312 kcal

  • Protein: 9g

  • Fiber: 22g

  • Carbohydrates: 67g

  • Fat: 3g

  • Rich in: Iron, potassium, vitamin C, manganese, and curcumin


Precautions

  • High doses may cause stomach upset or thin the blood

  • Curcumin is poorly absorbed on its own—best taken with black pepper (piperine)

  • Pregnant women should avoid medicinal amounts


Home Remedy (Golden Milk / Haldi Doodh)

Ingredients:

  • ½ tsp turmeric powder

  • 1 cup milk (or plant milk)

  • Pinch of black pepper and cinnamon (optional)
    Method: Boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Drink warm.
    Benefits: Boosts immunity, relieves cold and cough, improves sleep