Turmeric Powder Benefits: Why Salem & Lakadong Varieties Are Different

Turmeric (haldi) is a popular Indian spice used in cooking, Ayurveda, and healthcare. It is a golden-yellow potent root in the ginger family with an active compound called curcumin. Turmeric is easily available in the market with a price range from cheap to expensive. You may wonder- why the price difference? They all look the same!

Turmeric isn’t easily distinguished by the naked eye. The secret to its authenticity lies in its texture and taste, influenced by curcumin. And among all the options, Salem from Tamil Nadu & Lakadong from Meghalaya stand out for their quality and reputation. Both are expensive but provide different flavours in cooking. Let's explore the right choice for you and why turmeric power is important:

Turmeric Powder Benefits

Turmeric has been used in Indian households forever as a spice and medicinal herb. Thanks to its active compound called curcuminoids, which provide anti-inflammatory properties.

Before we explore varieties of turmeric, let's go through its overall benefits:

Turmeric has bioactive compounds.

Bioactive compounds in turmeric offer benefits like improved gut health and immunity. These are fat-soluble and are extensively used in high-fat meals.

Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory compounds.

Curcumin is an active anti-inflammatory compound found in turmeric. It helps to fight inflammation and may treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Turmeric increases antioxidant capacity.

Early ageing and many diseases happen due to oxidative damage. Turmeric helps to provide antioxidants that neutralise free radicals that may cause damage to the body cells. It may help delay ageing as well.

Turmeric improves brain health.

Curcumin in turmeric is believed to increase brain levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) that influences memory and learning. It also helps in treating Alzheimer’s disease by slowing or reversing its progression.

Turmeric improves heart function.

Turmeric helps to sustain heart rate and pressure due to its antioxidants. It may lower your risk of a heart attack.

Note: Though a herbal medicine, turmeric shouldn’t be replaced with a medical treatment.

Lakadong Turmeric and Salem Turmeric

The most popular varieties of turmeric in the world, Lakadong and Salem, may seem expensive but offer the best texture and curcumin content.
Here’s what makes each unique:

Lakadong Turmeric

Lakadong turmeric is a premium GI-tagged (geographical indication) spice grown in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. It is called the nutrient powerhouse with a high curcumin content of around 6-11%. Lakadong is cultivated without the use of pesticides and is one of the best turmeric varieties available in the world with a deep golden yellow colour & earthy texture.

The spice is slightly bitter in taste with more antioxidants in comparison to other types of turmeric. It is best used in health drinks called haldi doodh & herbal teas to boost immunity and internal healing. You may find it in various immunity blends, supplements and Ayurvedic medicines to treat health issues like joint pain, skin health, brain function, and digestion.

Protip: This spice is best for health-conscious families. Use it in minimal quantities (a pinch or a half teaspoon) to avoid bitterness in food.

ALSO SEE- Guntur vs Kashmiri vs Byadgi Chilli: Which Red Chilli Powder Belongs in Your Kitchen?

Salem Turmeric

Salem turmeric is an affordable yet premium turmeric cultivated in the Salem region of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its rich aroma and consistent colour with a moderate curcumin content of 3-6%. The spice comes in a bright yellow texture and smooth flavour in dishes. It is widely used in daily curries, rassam, sambhar and stir-fried veggies.

Salem turmeric isn’t as bitter as Lakadong. It provides soothing flavours to balance taste in dishes. Just one spoon and your food feels warmer and brighter. You may also use it in health drinks, as an antiseptic or as an herb.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Lakadong v/s Salem

Here’s a comparison table between the spices:

Feature	Lakadong (Meghalaya)	Salem (Tamil Nadu)
Curcumin Content	6–11% (Slightly higher/ high antioxidant rate)	3–6% (Moderate level/best for cooking)
Colour	Deep golden yellow	Bright yellow
Flavour	Slightly more bitter taste than others	Mild & aromatic taste
Best Use In	Ayurvedic supplements, wellness drinks and healthy cooking	Daily dishes like curries, veggies, dals, etc.
Price	Costly	Affordable than Lakadong

Choosing Between Lakadong and Salem Turmeric

Both the turmeric varieties have their own set of pros and cons. Choosing between the two is a personal preference:

Lakadong is the best choice if you prioritise wellness. Use it in minimal quantities to avoid food bitterness and add to wellness drinks and supplements.
Salem is the best choice if you like balanced and warm turmeric flavours in dishes. It is the best affordable option for cooking that also provides a rich aroma.

Tip: Keep both variations to get all the benefits. A small jar of Lakadong is enough for 5-6 months.

Whether you go for Lakadong or Salem, both offer benefits that are essential for a healthy life. Ayurveda considers turmeric to be the king of spices. Explore its health benefits by adding it to your daily food or simply drinking it with warm milk. You’ll thank us later!

FAQs

1. Are turmeric varieties the same?

No, not all turmeric varieties are the same. They come in different textures, colours, and aromas depending on their antioxidants. Curcumin, an important compound in the spice, determines its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

2. Why is Lakadong turmeric expensive?

Lakadong turmeric is a GI-tagged spice grown in Meghalaya. It has maximum antioxidants and antiseptic compounds with upto 12% Curcumin content. This makes Lakadong turmeric more expensive than others.