Gardening and Cooking with Turmeric: From Root to Spice and

If you’ve been following my adventures on Instagram and Facebook, you might have seen that my husband and I recently enjoyed a delightful long weekend in the bustling city of NYC. What made this trip even more memorable was our daily bike rides, where we covered up to approximately 30 miles each day. We were so enamored with this new way of exploring the city that upon our return home to Charleston, SC, we couldn’t resist dusting off our bikes and hitting the open road right here in our hometown.

Now, if you’ve ever visited NYC in June, you’ll know that biking there is quite different from our leisurely rides in Charleston, especially when it comes to temperature (and traffic, of course). To kick off our biking escapades in Charleston, we started with some neighborhood rides. We typically ventured out in the early morning or late evening to escape the scorching heat. Surprisingly, the breeze generated by biking made our rides rather enjoyable. Who needs cars and air conditioning anyway? Just kidding!

During our first bike ride in Charleston, we covered about three miles. We headed to the picturesque Waterfront Park and Pier, and from there, we ventured to the other side of town, all the way to Shem Creek. Afterward, we made our way back to our side of town. By this point, we were feeling the heat, quite thirsty, and just a tad sweaty. Alas, we realized we had forgotten to bring any drinks with us, which was a bit unusual for us.

However, luck was on our side as we stumbled upon a charming juice shop. We decided to share a refreshing green juice, and my husband even went for an invigorating turmeric shot. Inspired by this experience, I’ve recreated the Turmeric Shot recipe for you to enjoy. I can personally vouch for its deliciousness, and it’s husband-approved as well! Cheers!

The Turmeric Journey

Turmeric is a versatile spice commonly used in Asian cuisine, prized for its distinctive flavor and vibrant yellow color. It’s derived from the root of the turmeric plant, which belongs to the ginger family. What’s fascinating about this plant is its perennial nature, meaning it regrows year after year.

If you decide to plant turmeric, you’ll typically need to dig up the roots to access the spice. However, here’s a gardening tip: if you leave a few roots in the ground or replant some, they will multiply, ensuring a steady supply for the future. In the attached picture, you can see the turmeric roots I planted a couple of months ago, with lemongrass in the background. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly they grew, given that it was my first time planting turmeric. I’m hopeful that when I eventually dig them up, I’ll have a bountiful clump of roots to enjoy.

Planting and harvesting turmeric is a straightforward process, and I found some helpful videos that guided me through it. While it’s relatively easy, it’s worth noting that the entire cycle takes about eight months from planting to harvest. The second video I came across also provides valuable insights into storing turmeric so you can have this delightful spice at your disposal year-round, bridging the gap until the next harvest. Happy gardening and cooking with your homegrown turmeric!

I watched these videos to learn how to plant and harvest turmeric.  

Below is what it looks like when you dig it up and wash it off (hopefully).

Turmeric’s Health Benefits

Turmeric is often associated with its active component known as curcumin. Curcumin is the vibrant yellow pigment found in turmeric, and it serves as the primary bioactive compound responsible for many of its health benefits.

Turmeric has gained popularity for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and is widely used to address various health concerns. According to the Natural Medicines database, turmeric or curcumin can be used for conditions such as:

• Arthritis
• Joint pain
• Indigestion
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Headaches
• Common cold

Beyond its medicinal applications, turmeric also finds its way into various industries. The essential oil derived from turmeric is used in perfumes, while both the turmeric itself and its resins are utilized for flavoring and coloring in the food and manufacturing sectors. Turmeric is perhaps most renowned as a culinary spice and a key ingredient in curry powder, adding both flavor and its distinctive golden hue to a wide range of dishes.

Turmeric in Your Diet

Besides the Turmeric Shot, I like adding organic turmeric powder or a small piece of fresh root to my smoothies. You can also try sipping on a Golden Turmeric Latte.

When it comes to supplementing with turmeric or curcumin, it’s advisable to start at a lower dose and gradually increase if well tolerated. Many individuals find success with a daily dose of 500mg and may eventually work their way up to 1000mg per day.

When seeking a turmeric supplement, it’s essential to prioritize quality. You can explore options on Fullscript to find a reputable and high-quality supplement that fits your budget. If you’re one of my clients, you can enjoy a 20% discount, and even if you’re not, you’re still eligible for a 10% discount.

However, it’s crucial to consult with your primary care physician before introducing any new supplements into your routine, especially if you are currently taking other medications. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance and ensure that supplements are safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

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Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance and assistance tailored to your specific needs.