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08 Apr 2025

Turmeric: A 4,000-Year Journey from Indian Roots

Written by

The Logical Indian

The Ancient Roots of Turmeric

In 250 BC, Sushruta’s Ayurvedic Compendium recommended turmeric ointment to relieve the effects of poisoned food, showcasing its early medicinal use. The spice’s journey beyond India began around 700 AD as traders carried it along the Silk Road, reaching the Middle East and North Africa. Its vibrant colour made it a sought-after natural dye for textiles, marking its place in art and culture.

By the 13th century, turmeric had found its way to Europe through trade routes established during the Crusades. Marco Polo, during his travels, marvelled at its unique taste and colour. The spice became a staple in European culinary and medicinal practices.

Turmeric’s Global Journey

India, being the largest producer, contributed significantly to the spice’s global spread. Erode, a city in Tamil Nadu, earned the titles of ‘Yellow City’ and ‘Turmeric City’ as the world’s largest producer and trading centre for turmeric. The spice’s processing involves boiling or steaming the rhizomes, which are then dried and ground into a yellow powder. Turmeric played a pivotal role in the spice trade during the Age of Exploration, motivating European maritime expeditions. However, colonialism brought challenges such as forced labour and exploitation of indigenous knowledge as turmeric cultivation expanded to regions like the Caribbean and Africa.

Colonialism and the Spice Trade

In the modern era, turmeric’s popularity soared as a superfood and natural remedy. Its active compound, curcumin, became the subject of scientific studies for its potential health benefits. Turmeric supplements, teas, and tonics flooded the market, catering to those seeking its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Culturally, turmeric transcended boundaries, especially in the culinary world. It became a fundamental ingredient in curry powder, influencing a variety of dishes in the Indian subcontinent. In Southeast Asia, it flavoured noodle soups and stews, while in the Middle East, it enhanced rice dishes and pickles.

Culinary and Cultural Ambassador

Turmeric’s impact on art and culture is noteworthy. In Indian traditional dance, turmeric paste symbolises purity and grace, applied to dancers’ feet before performances. Its use as a natural dye and intricate rangoli designs further showcase its cultural significance.

Conclusion

India’s influence on turmeric’s taste and significance in world food cannot be overstated. The spice’s journey through time is a testament to India’s contribution to global cuisine and culture. So, the next time you relish a dish infused with the warmth of turmeric, remember the millennia of history that originated in India, shaping the world’s flavours and enriching our understanding of interconnectedness.

References

National Library Of Medicines
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752/
Indian Culture
https://indianculture.gov.in/food-and-culture/spices-herbs/turmeric-indian-saffron

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IndiaFirst Life & the logical indian

Headquartered in Mumbai, IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life), is one of the country's youngest life insurance companies. The Logical Indian is an independent and public-spirited digital media platform for Indian Millennials. IndiaFirst Life and The Logical Indian have come together to showcase India’s rich history of innovation in different fields of life which have made a significant mark on humanity and globally. Please note, The information presented here is the result of a collaborative effort between The IndiaFirst Life, Dentsu Creative & The Logical Indian. All research and fact-finding is credited to Dentsu Creative in association with The Logical Indian.