Chad and I do most all of our cooking – we literally eat out maybe 3 times per year! Since we eat organic, sustainable and vegan home cooking is the best way to assure that we are eating the best way for us. Turmeric has been one of our favorite daily spices for years – we put it in almost everything just because we like it! Spices are a part of any whole, balanced diet, and turmeric is one of the kings. Known for its many healing properties, it is becoming more available and well known; recently whole foods started carrying the actual root which has been a fun addition to our fall soups and stir frys. Of course you can buy the powder in your spice section, but there is something about that root that really got me amped! Check out all the amazing health benefits of Turmeric from CNN.

1. Cancer Prevention

Prevent prostate cancer, stop the growth of existing prostate cancer and even destroy cancer cells. Multiple researchers have found that the active components in turmeric makes it one of the best protectors against radiation-induced tumors. It also has a preventive effect against tumor cells such as T-cell leukemia, colon carcinomas and breast carcinomas.

2. Arthritis Reliever

The anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric are great for treating both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, turmeric’s antioxidant property destroys free radicals in the body that damage body cells. It has been found that those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis who consume turmeric on a regular basis experience much relief from the moderate to mild joint pains as well as joint inflammation.

3. Diabetes Control

Used in the treatment of diabetes by helping to moderate insulin levels.also improves glucose control and increases the effect of medications used to treat diabetes. Another significant benefit is turmeric’s effectiveness in helping reduce insulin resistance, which may prevent the onset of Type-2 diabetes.

4. Heals Wounds

A natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent and can be used as an effective disinfectant. If you have a cut or burn, you can sprinkle turmeric powder on the affected area to speed up the healing process. Helps repair damaged skin and may be used to treat psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

5. Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention

Supports overall brain health by aiding in the removal of plaque build-up in the brain and improving the flow of oxygen. This can also prevent or slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

6. Improves Digestion

Turmeric is helpful in treating most forms of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis. However it is important to bear in mind that people suffering from any kind of gallbladder disease should not take turmeric as a dietary supplement as it may worsen the condition.

7. Natural Liver Detoxifier

Detoxifies the blood through the production of enzymes and turmeric increases production of these vital enzymes. These vital enzymes break down and reduce toxins in the body. Turmeric also is believed to invigorate and improve blood circulation.

8. Maintains Ideal Body Weight

A component present in turmeric helps increase the flow of bile, an important component in the breakdown of dietary fat. Those who wish to lose weight or treat obesity and other associated diseases can benefit from having one teaspoon of turmeric powder with every meal.

9. Reduces Cholesterol Level

Acts as a food seasoning can reduce serum cholesterol levels. It is a known fact that high cholesterol can lead to other serious health problems. Maintaining a proper cholesterol level can prevent many cardiovascular diseases.

10. Boosts Immune System

Contains a substance known as lipopolysaccharide, which helps stimulate the body’s immune system. Its antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal agents also help strengthen the immune system. A strong immune system lessens the chance of suffering from colds, flu and coughs.

Turmeric Chai Tea Recipe from Frugally Sustainable

Turmeric Chai Tea Powder 
(4 servings)

-3 tablespoons ground turmeric
-4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
-1/8 teaspoon ground clove
-1 teaspoon ground cardamon
-2 teaspoons ground ginger
-1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions: Mix all ingredients together and store in a glass jar.

Note: Cayenne pepper, although optional in the recipe, will speed the turmeric through the blood stream by relaxing blood vessels down to capillaries allowing more turmeric to get to the infections faster.

Tea Prep
(single serving)

-4 teaspoons of Turmeric Chai Tea Powder
-1 cup water
-sweetener to taste
-1/2-1 cup warm milk (almond, hemp, coconut, etc.)

Directions: Bring 1 cup of water to boil. Pour water over spices and steep for 10 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh sieve or a cheesecloth. Add sweetener and milk.

Notes and Tips

-WARNING: Turmeric will turn everything it touches yellow.

-Using fresh herbs is always the better option. If using fresh turmeric and ginger increase steep time, during the prep, to 20 minutes.

-Because it stimulates the uterus, turmeric is not recommended for pregnant women. It is also contraindicated for those with gall bladder disease or gallstones. As a good general rule, please consult your physician prior to the use of any herbal/spice remedy.

-Turmeric, along with the other spices required in this recipe, is available in a well-appointed health food store, the spice aisle of most grocery stores. I purchase all of my spices in bulk online through Mountain Rose Herbs.

Gumsaba Boot Camp Class schedule Tuesday 11/19/13:

5:30AM Sunrise Danville Womens only class – Coach Michelle – TRX Solo Strength (if it rains we will be doing Strength Sets with weights + cardio blast)

5:30AM Sunrise Danville Mens only class – Coach Allen

6AM Sunup Walnut Creek Co-Ed class – Coach Matt – 30 SET SUNRISE

9AM Sunshine Walnut Creek Womens only class – Coach Michelle – TRX Solo Strength (if it rains we will be doing Strength Sets with weights + cardio blast)