The most important plant that one comes across in ancient Indian scripture is turmeric. Turmeric, also known as “Indian saffron” has been in use dating back to 4000 BC. It is mentioned in Ayurveda, the age-old Indian system of medicine, and one encounters its name and use recorded in Sanskrit during the period known as the Vedic age. In fact, the use of turmeric has many purposes, as a dye, condiment, and medicine. In Sanskrit, it is referred to as “Haridara,” a word which has two parts: “Hari” and “Dara,” The first part means Vishnu, the omnipotent and omnipresent Hindu deity; and the second part “Dara” means what one wears, obviously referring to the fact that Vishnu used it on his body. Turmeric has another very interesting Sanskrit name—Hattavilasini, which means one that shines in the market. This simply emphasizes the tremendous commercial value of the plant. Turmeric derives its name from the Latin word “terra merita,” meaning meritorious earth, which refers to the color of ground turmeric, resembling a mineral pigment. The botanical name is Curcuma domestica Val. Syn..Curcuma longa L. belongs to the family Zingiberaceae. In the earliest writings of Ayurveda, dating several centuries prior to the Common Era (Christian era), the medicinal properties of turmeric have been elucidated in great detail. The Charaka Samhita, Susruta Samhita, Bhela Samhita, and Kasyapa Samhita make mention of turmeric as an essential dietary ingredient and medicine as well.
Farmers Cargo introduces DNA tested dried turmeric powder for use in various end products in UV protected packaging. Purity of a natural product is the cornerstone of its perceived biological efficacy. Authenticating value added powdered turmeric is a daunting task in the face of unethical practices including substitution, adulteration, use of fillers, and mislabeling. Usual adulterants that can go into turmeric powder is starch and Curcuma zedoaria which is reported to be toxic. Adulteration lowers the medicinal value of turmeric thereby eroding consumer confidence and constituting a health hazard. Since curcuminoids, the color constituents of turmeric, deteriorate on exposure to light and, to a lesser extent, under heat and oxidative conditions, it is important that ground turmeric is packed in a UV protective packaging. The color of powdered turmeric by Farmers Cargo will not deteriorate for up to 6 months.
