Uses for Tumeric Root Powder

Used for Color

• In Western countries, turmeric root powder is used primarily to add color to dishes and several food products. It is easy as a powder since it can be mixed in easily and spread throughout the dish. This includes pastries, bottled drinks, butter, popcorn, cheese, jams, icings, gelatin, yogurt, spice mixes and sauces, just to name a few. Turmeric is one of the rare spices that can be used in savory and sweet dishes.

Asian and Middle Eastern

• In these cultures, turmeric root powder is added to more dishes then other spices. It is added to provide a combination of depth of flavor, color and health benefits. It is added to dishes with poultry, vegetables, salad dressings, sauces, chutney, curry mixes and stir-frys. Persian and Indian culinary traditiona also integrates turmeric with rice dishes, sprinkling it on the bottom of the dish so it provides a depth of color to the bottom of the rice.

Health Benefits

• This root powder has been used medicinally for more than one thousand years. It is known as a natural antiseptic and antibacterial substance, and can quicken wound healing. It also helps keep skin healthy, naturally detoxifying the liver and other organs. According to Health Diaries, when combined with cauliflower, tumeric can help prevent prostate cancer and prevent spreading of existing cancerous cells such as melanoma and breast. Especially in powder form, it may help speed up the body's metabolism.