Turmeric plays a vital role in traditional medicine and the culinary world. It has become a trendy addition to everyday foods, not just for its colour or flavour, but for its amazing medicinal and nutritional benefits.
If we were to give turmeric a name, we’d call it uzifo zonke – an isiXhosa term meaning “the cure for all ailments”. Iconically, this spice can blend into almost anything and still work its wonders.
Nourishment inside and out
Although it is mostly found in powder form as a spice, fresh turmeric is always the best, says indigenous food activist and chef Nonhlanhla Moroenyane, based in Johannesburg.
“I use my turmeric in tea and curries, in my vegan egg dish, and I also have a turmeric and apricot face scrub made by a friend,” says Moroenyane.
“If it’s good for the inside, then it makes the outside glow. Once your pores are open, it gets absorbed, removing dirt and bacteria.”
Nonhlanhla Moroenyane
Moroenyane explains that she knows turmeric to be high in antioxidants, which help fight ills in the body. It’s also a great addition, along with other spices and herbs, to help fight infections and inflammation.
“I don’t particularly suffer from blood pressure, but it’s good to keep it in check, and turmeric does that.”
Medicinal properties
Moroenyane adds that turmeric has been a bestie for her, especially in her special winter tea, which combines baobab, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and lemon bush. “It’s a beautiful combination for overall health, and you can enjoy it hot or cold.”
Dr Linah Moeketsi, an Ayurvedic (Indian traditional medicine) and African traditional medical practitioner based in Midrand, Johannesburg, explains that turmeric has various uses, with its most common applications being for the skin, cooking, and as an anti-inflammatory in medicine.
She adds that turmeric must be activated when ingested, and black pepper helps with this activation. “Adding black pepper to turmeric activates it because the body can’t digest turmeric in its raw form,” she says.
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Use with caution
Meanwhile, Dr Sharon Maphaha, a phytotherapist based in Tshwane, says due to its blood-thinning properties, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders and should be discontinued at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery to reduce this risk.
She adds that the spice may interact with other blood-thinning agents such as aspirin and warfarin.
“Be sure to consult your healthcare practitioner for interactions with your medication.”
Dr Sharon Maphaha
She also notes, “Because of turmeric’s bile secretion action, professional advice should be sought before using it in people with gallstones or bile obstruction.”
However, she says that whether you’re looking to relieve pain, support digestion, boost immunity, or enhance skin health, incorporating turmeric into your daily routine can help you feel your best – naturally.
The healing touch
Maphaha explains that it helps reduce inflammation, ease pain, and support overall well-being in other ways:
For inflammation:
- Chronic inflammation is at the root of many modern health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis
- Other autoimmune disorders: Turmeric acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce joint stiffness and swelling, relieve muscle soreness and post-workout pain, and support recovery from injuries and inflammation-related diseases.
For digestive health
Turmeric has been traditionally used to soothe the gut and improve digestion. It supports digestive health by:
- Reduces bloating and gas
- Stimulates the secretion of bile to aid with digestion
- Supports liver detoxification
For healthy, glowing skin
- Turmeric’s detoxifying, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects make it a go-to remedy for the skin.
- Helps for conditions such as acne and breakouts, eczema and psoriasis, hyperpigmentation and dullness
How to use it
- Drink turmeric tea or take a turmeric supplement with black pepper for better absorption.
- Add turmeric to warm lemon water in the morning to kickstart digestion.
- Apply a turmeric face mask with honey for brighter, clearer skin.
Incorporating turmeric into food
Golden milk: Warm milk (dairy or plant-based) with turmeric, black pepper, and honey.
Teas and infusions: Brew fresh turmeric root with ginger and lemon for a detoxifying tea.
Smoothies: Add ½ tsp of turmeric to your smoothie.
Soups and stews: Stir in turmeric while cooking for a warm, earthy flavour and added health benefits.
Rice and grains: Mix a pinch into rice, quinoa, or couscous for colour and nutrition.
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