Daily Dish the Sonoma Market blog
DIY Turmeric Tricks
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Turmeric root is a cousin of ginger root and can be used freshly grated in many recipes. Plus, there’s no need to peel the root as the skin is much softer than ginger root’s outer skin. Using fresh turmeric root may provide greater anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potency than dried turmeric powder, but both forms work well in a variety of uses, like these DIY recipes!
Turmeric root is a cousin of ginger root and can be used freshly grated in many recipes. Plus, there’s no need to peel the root as the skin is much softer than ginger root’s outer skin. Using fresh turmeric root may provide greater anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potency than dried turmeric powder, but both forms work well in a variety of uses, like these DIY recipes!
Turmeric-Ginger Tea: Steeping freshly ground turmeric root with hot water infuses your tea with anti-inflammatory compounds that studies show may benefit gut, heart and brain health. The fresh ginger may also calm stomach upset following a large meal. Use this tea as a warming drink after an evening meal or with breakfast for a soothing boost.
Ingredients:
- 2½-inch piece of turmeric root, finely grated (use a fine cheese grater)
- 1-inch piece of peeled ginger, finely grated
Preparation:
Fill a tea steeper ball with grated ginger and turmeric roots, then place in large teacup and cover with very hot water. Let steep 5 minutes (swirling the ball on occasion). Add a drizzle of honey and squeeze of lemon juice, stir and enjoy.
Golden Glow Skin Mask: With turmeric’s powerful anti-inflammatory action, this root (both fresh and dried) has been used for years as a topical treatment for a variety of skin conditions including acne and psoriasis. Studies show that improvement for some skin conditions is seen with topical use of turmeric. Try this soothing DIY turmeric skin mask at home. As with any skin treatment, be sure to do a patch test first!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon whole milk plain yogurt (Greek yogurt will create a thicker mask)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder (or ¾ teaspoon freshly grated turmeric root)
Preparation:
Mix all ingredients well and apply to freshly washed face. Let sit for 5 minutes, gently rinse and pat dry. Avoid rinsing off with a white washcloth, as turmeric’s intense yellow hue may stain the washcloth.
To learn more about the health benefits of turmeric, check out the Health Notes by Dr. Liz in our Golden Goodness Daily Dish!
