Explore the best types of turmeric with Al-Mehbaj. A comprehensive guide that shows you the difference between body and food turmeric, and how to distinguish authentic turmeric from its different types to get the maximum benefit.
Turmeric is considered one of the most valuable and beneficial spices in the world of cooking and alternative medicine, and it has long held a special place in Arab and Asian kitchens. With the growing awareness of its amazing health benefits, the search for the best types of turmeric has become a necessity for anyone seeking a healthy lifestyle and a kitchen full of authentic flavors. Al-Mehbaj, with its 45 years of experience, stands at the forefront to provide the finest and purest types of turmeric, selected from the best global sources.
What is Turmeric and Its Historical Importance
What exactly is turmeric? Turmeric is the rhizome of the “Curcuma longa” plant, which belongs to the ginger family, and is sometimes called “yellow gold” or “mother turmeric” due to its high nutritional and medicinal value. This distinctive spice has an ancient history spanning thousands of years in traditional medicine and Asian cooking, and it reached our Arab region through ancient trade routes to become an integral part of our food heritage.
The form of fresh turmeric resembles ginger roots, but it is smaller and has an orange-yellow color inside. When dried and ground, it becomes a fine powder with a distinctive golden-yellow color and a unique aromatic scent.
The Secret in Curcumin: What Makes Turmeric the Best?
When we talk about the best types of turmeric, we are not just talking about the color, but about the active ingredient in it: curcumin. This substance is responsible for most of turmeric’s health benefits, and the higher its concentration, the greater the quality and effectiveness of the turmeric. Authentic turmeric is distinguished by a high concentration of curcumin, which gives it its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Turmeric Forms and Its Types
To differentiate between the types of turmeric, here are its most prominent forms:
Fresh Turmeric:
- Resembles ginger roots in its form.
- When cut from the inside, a strong orange or yellow color appears.
Ground Turmeric:
- The most common form in kitchens.
- Sold as a golden-yellow powder.
- At Al-Mehbaj, we provide the finest types of ground turmeric.
Turmeric Capsules or Supplements:
- Used medicinally as a dietary supplement to treat inflammation and boost immunity.
Body Turmeric (Mother Turmeric):
- Used in cosmetic mixtures for skin and lightening.
- Differs from food turmeric in terms of purity and composition.
The main common types of turmeric are long turmeric and male turmeric. Long turmeric is the plant traditionally used to produce the yellow-orange turmeric we know as a spice, while male turmeric is known for its yellowish interior color and more bitter taste and is used in traditional medicine.
Long Turmeric (Regular Turmeric)
- Scientific Name: Curcuma longa.
- Properties: It is distinguished by its vibrant orange-yellow color.
- Uses: It is widely used as a flavoring agent in cooking, especially in curries and Asian cuisines, in addition to its medicinal uses.
Male Turmeric:
- Properties: It differs from regular turmeric with its yellowish-white interior color.
- Uses: It is known for its bitter taste and is used more in traditional remedies due to its different properties, such as its distinctive bitterness and interior color.
The Main Difference Between the Two Types
The main difference lies in the interior color and the focus of use. While long turmeric is widely used in cooking and medicine, male turmeric tends to be more used in traditional recipes due to its different properties, such as its distinctive bitterness and interior color.
How to Distinguish Authentic Turmeric
Color and Form:
Authentic turmeric is distinguished by a natural golden-yellow color, not a fake or artificial one. The powder should be fine and homogeneous, and the form of the ground turmeric should be free of impurities or strange colors.
Smell and Taste:
Authentic turmeric has a distinctive aromatic smell and a warm, earthy taste with a touch of natural bitterness. If the smell is weak or the taste is bland, the product may be mixed or of low quality.
The Dissolving Test:
When mixing a teaspoon of turmeric with warm water, the pure turmeric should dissolve easily and leave a sediment at the bottom. It gives a natural yellow color. If it leaves a thick sediment or a strange color, it may contain undesirable additives.
The Difference Between Body and Food Turmeric
Many people wonder about the difference between body and food turmeric, and this is a very important question:
Food Turmeric
- Specifically prepared for consumption in cooking and eating.
- Undergoes precise cleaning and sterilization processes.
- Free of impurities and harmful substances.
- Has strict food quality standards.
- Safe for use in cooking and beverages.
- Free of any chemicals or dyes.
Body (Cosmetic) Turmeric
- Intended for external use only.
- May contain cosmetic additives.
- Not safe for eating.
- Used in natural masks and mixtures.
- Important Note: Never use body turmeric in food, and vice versa. Using food turmeric for cosmetic recipes for the body may give the skin an undesirable yellowish color.
The Amazing Health Benefits of Turmeric
Natural Anti-Inflammatory:
The best types of turmeric contain the compound curcumin, which is considered one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatories, helping to relieve joint pain and improve overall health.
Immunity Boost:
Regular use of turmeric in food helps boost the natural immune system and protect the body from diseases.
Digestion Support:
Turmeric stimulates bile production, which improves digestion and reduces stomach problems.
Powerful Antioxidant:
It fights free radicals in the body and slows down the signs of premature aging.
Ways to Use Turmeric in the Kitchen
In Main Dishes:
Turmeric is added to rice, vegetables, and meats to give them a beautiful golden color and a distinctive flavor. It is recommended to add a little black pepper to increase curcumin absorption.
Healthy Drinks:
“Golden milk” prepared with turmeric, milk, and honey has become a popular drink for health and relaxation.
Spice Blends:
Turmeric is included in the preparation of various spice blends such as curry and mixed Arab spices.
Why Choose Al-Mehbaj’s Turmeric?
Guaranteed Quality:
Al-Mehbaj is keen on selecting the best types of turmeric from their original sources, with precise inspections to ensure purity and quality.
Airtight Packaging:
Al-Mehbaj’s turmeric comes in airtight containers that preserve the flavor and nutritional value for a long time, with a stylish and practical design.
Experience and Trust:
With 45 years of experience in the world of spices, Al-Mehbaj guarantees you get the best and safest products.
Wide Spread:
With over 150 points of sale in the Kingdom, Al-Mehbaj products can be easily found at the nearest store.
Tips for Storing and Using Turmeric
Correct Storage Methods:
- Store turmeric in a cool, dry place.
- Use airtight containers.
- Avoid direct exposure to light and heat.
- Do not use wet spoons inside the container.
Usage Tips: - Start with small amounts and increase gradually according to taste.
- Add turmeric at the beginning of cooking to get the best flavor.
- Mix it with a little oil or fat to improve absorption.
Tips for Choosing Authentic Turmeric
To ensure you get the best types of turmeric, follow these tips:
- Look for a deep golden color:Authentic turmeric is distinguished by its deep golden-yellow color. You can check turmeric images of high quality to compare the color.
- Read the ingredients: Make sure the product does not contain any fillers or artificial colors.
- Look for a reliable source: Choose a trusted brand that cares about quality and purity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I know the original type of turmeric?
Authentic turmeric is distinguished by its natural golden-yellow color and strong earthy smell. When mixed with water, a part of it settles at the bottom and does not dissolve completely, while the fake one is often pale or very artificial in color and does not have the same distinctive smell.
Q2: What is the difference between regular turmeric and male turmeric?
Regular turmeric is the most common and is used in cooking and cosmetics. Male turmeric is a different type with a lighter color and a less intense flavor, and is often used in medicinal and cosmetic mixtures due to its medicinal properties.
Q3: What is the best turmeric for the body?
The best turmeric for the body is body turmeric (mother turmeric), as it is used directly in natural mixtures to lighten the skin, reduce pigmentation, and purify the skin from impurities. It is always recommended to buy the pure type from a reliable source to ensure effective results.
Q4: What is the best type of curcumin?
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, and the best type is found in high-quality Indian turmeric because it contains a high percentage of curcumin compared to other types. It is preferable to obtain it from reliable brands to ensure purity and concentration.
Al-Mehbaj: Your Premier Destination for Authentic and Pure Turmeric
At “Al-Mehbaj,” we are committed to providing the highest standards of quality and purity. We select the best types of turmeric from their original sources, and we package them carefully to ensure they reach you with the highest possible quality. Our products are completely free of any additives, which guarantees you get the full benefit of turmeric. Whether you are looking for a rich flavor for your dishes or health benefits for your skin, turmeric from Al-Mehbaj is your perfect choice. It is not just a spice, but the yellow gold you deserve.