It seems like every week, there’s a buzzy new supplement taking over the wellness world. Juice bars are touting the benefits of adaptogenic mushroom powders. Nutritionists are suddenly enamored with ashwagandha. Something called shilajit is supposedly the answer to boosting your immune system. While it’s amazing to be introduced to all of these new pathways to health, it can feel overwhelming to try to incorporate all of them into your daily routine. So let’s make it simple:
One ingredient, three easy ways to work with it — starting with the ancient medicinal plant turmeric.
What Is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a root plant in the same family as ginger that’s been revered for centuries in India for its healing properties (not to mention its delicious, bitter-spicy taste). Its health benefits are almost innumerable: Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, meaning it can ease gut issues, soothe skin irritations like acne and eczema, and reduce chronic pain. It also has antioxidant properties to neutralize the effects of pollution in and on the body. Turmeric has been linked to higher brain function, lower risk of heart disease, and even cancer prevention. Basically, this is the one “trendy” supplement you actually need in your life.
Ahead, discover three low-effort, high-impact methods for adding a dose of this golden spice to your wellness routine.
Use It To Cook
Turmeric powder, with all of its Indian-inspired flavor, is a spice that belongs in every kitchen cabinet. By simply sprinkling it into your usual salt and pepper mix, you can turn any dish into an anti-inflammatory, heart-healthy meal. Use it to spice your eggs in the morning, add it to your roasted potatoes at dinner, or stir a spoonful into your slow-cooker soup recipe. You really can’t go wrong.
Add It To Your Latte
At the moment, there’s nothing hipper (or yummier) than a golden milk latte. You can catch the turmeric-spiked drink at cool cafés across the country, but it’s easy to DIY it at home, too. All you need is a cup of your favorite milk or milk substitute (I prefer almond milk), a tablespoon of turmeric powder, and a pinch each of cinnamon, pepper, and sweeter (I like to use honey).
To make, heat milk on the stove, then mix in the turmeric and cinnamon. Add sweetner, top with pepper, and that’s it — you’ve harnessed the power of turmeric in dessert-worthy latte.
Use It In A Face Mask
One of my favorite things about turmeric is that its anti-inflammatory properties work topically, as well — so you can slather it on your face and watch pimples and red patches practically disappear. To make a soothing, brightening face mask, combine 1 part turmeric powder with 1 part honey and mix it into a paste (you can add a bit of rose water to help smooth out the texture, too). Apply and let sit for 15 – 20 minutes before you wash off with warm water. Your skin will G-L-O-W afterwards, but be warned: turmeric will stain your wash cloths yellow. (A small price to pay for nearly perfect skin, right?)
Photo Credit: Pinterest
