Turmeric paste, also known as “Golden Paste,” has been heralded for its health benefits, particularly in fighting inflammation, which is often linked to cancer and joint pain. The addition of black pepper and coconut oil to the paste not only enhances the flavor but significantly improves the bioavailability of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric that gives it its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Why Add Black Pepper and Coconut Oil?
- Black Pepper: Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that can increase the absorption of curcumin by up to 2,000%. Without piperine, most of the curcumin just passes through your digestive tract.
- Coconut Oil: Curcumin is fat-soluble, meaning it needs to be combined with a fat to be efficiently absorbed into the bloodstream. Coconut oil is an excellent source of medium-chain fatty acids, which can aid in the absorption and utilization of curcumin.
How to Make Turmeric Paste
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of turmeric powder
- 1 cup of water (plus a bit more if needed)
- 1/3 cup of coconut oil
- 2-3 teaspoons of ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Combine Turmeric and Water:
- In a small pan, combine turmeric powder with 1 cup of water. Start heating the mixture on low, and stir constantly until it forms a thick paste. This should take about 7-10 minutes. If the paste becomes too thick, add a little more water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Add Coconut Oil and Black Pepper:
- Once the turicum paste has formed, add the coconut oil and ground black pepper to the pan. Continue stirring until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Cool and Store:
- Allow the paste to cool. Transfer it to a jar with a lid and store it in the refrigerator. The paste can typically be kept for up to 2-3 weeks.
How to Use Turmeric Paste
- As a Daily Supplement:
- Take about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the paste daily. Start with a smaller amount to see how your body reacts, and gradually increase to a full teaspoon if there are no adverse effects.
- In Cooking:
- Incorporate turmeric paste into curries, soups, or stews. It can also be blended into smoothies or used as a condiment.
- As a Tea:
- Mix a small amount of turmeric paste in hot water or milk for a warm, soothing drink.
Health Benefits
- Cancer Prevention:
- Curcumin has been studied for its potential to reduce the spread of cancer and contribute to the death of cancerous cells. It is considered a beneficial supplement for cancer prevention and support during cancer treatment.
- Joint Health:
- Its anti-inflammatory properties make turmeric paste a natural treatment option for inflammatory joint diseases like arthritis, reducing pain and stiffness in the joints.
Precautions
- Medical Interactions:
- Curcumin can interact with certain medications, including anti-coagulants and diabetes medications. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement.
- Gallbladder Disease:
- People with gallbladder problems should avoid consuming turmeric paste as curcumin can cause the gallbladder to contract.
Turmeric paste is a versatile and potent formulation that can significantly enhance your health regimen, offering benefits from cancer prevention to joint support. However, it’s important to use it thoughtfully and be aware of its interactions and the appropriate dosages for personal use.
