Whether you are preparing Indian-style chicken curry, Sudanese camel biryani, Malaysian laksa, or Bangladeshi fish curry, turmeric is an indispensable ingredient in all these dishes. But turmeric’s benefits extend far beyond adding flavor to food; it is one of the world’s oldest and most cherished spices with numerous health advantages. “My family is Punjabi, and I can’t imagine a dish without turmeric,” said food researcher and South Asian diaspora podcast host Ragini Kashyap in a conversation with Food Chain. There are nearly 30 varieties of turmeric found around the world, prevalent in Asia, Africa, and South America. Its global spread is evidenced by its presence among South Asian diaspora communities, as well as from the shores of Bali and Fiji in the East Pacific to the islands of the Western Caribbean.
Kashyap notes that turmeric is even mentioned in texts dating back 2,500 years. In South Asia, turmeric is widely used, with a deep-rooted belief in its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. “When I feel unwell, turmeric is the first thing I think of, and it provides relief. It is partly psychological, partly medicinal, and partly rooted in memories of the past,” said Kashyap, who lives in Dubai. In India, the ‘Haldi Festival’ is celebrated before weddings, during which turmeric paste is applied to the face for beauty benefits. The ancient claims about turmeric’s effects have also led to increased demand in Western countries. To meet the body’s need for turmeric, supplement production has begun. These supplements typically contain a compound called ‘curcumin’, which is believed to be the primary source of turmeric’s health benefits.
Turmeric is claimed to help strengthen bones and joints and boost the immune system. According to Kashyap, social media sharing of positive experiences has contributed to its rising popularity. “Out of a billion people, many believe turmeric works well, which spreads a global message,” she said. “Additionally, advocates and supplement companies have helped reinforce this message.” However, some have questioned its benefits. Dr. Kathryn Nelson, a chemist working in Minnesota, reviewed more than a hundred studies related to curcumin found in turmeric. “We found claims that turmeric solves every problem, but in reality, it has shown limited effects,” she stated.
