Beyond spice to medicine, culture, & more

Turmeric, a multifaceted commodity, is now on board with the formation of the Turmeric Board by the Indian government.

Turmeric: India's Golden Spice in the Modern Times

Ayurveda and Medicinal Properties: Turmeric's therapeutic benefits are recognized by Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system. Recent global research has sparked renewed interest in its biomedical potential, particularly in light of the Covid-19 epidemic. Curcuminoids and turmeric, major components of turmeric, have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic, and anticancer effects.

Rise of the Turmeric Board: To address the rising significance of turmeric, the Indian government founded the Turmeric Board, which is located in Hyderabad. This project seeks to give leadership, boost efforts, and create collaboration among different government entities and the Spices Board to promote the development and expansion of the turmeric industry.

Global Dominance: India controls the global turmeric business, accounting for more than 62% of the total trade in 2022-23. The Turmeric Board forecasts continued expansion, with exports of $1 billion by 2030. More than 380 exporters allow the shipment of 1.534 lakh tons of turmeric and turmeric products valued at $207.45 million to key destinations such as Bangladesh, the UAE, the United States, and Malaysia.

Quality Assurance Challenges: As turmeric becomes more popular, worries regarding adulteration and contamination grow. The Turmeric Board must play a critical role in preserving the quality of this valuable spice, minimizing economic loss, and protecting the country's reputation on a global scale.

Diversification into Floriculture: Turmeric's flexibility extends to floriculture, with several species valued as cut flowers. Curcuma is a unique genus with applications in religion, medicine, aromatherapy, cosmetics, dyes, and floriculture. The Turmeric Board is positioned to spearhead this revolution in expanding turmeric's applications.

Biomedical Marvels: Recent scientific research has shown turmeric's biomedical potential, notably its main components, curcuminoids, and turmerin. These compounds have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic, and anticancer activities, making turmeric an important asset in modern medicine.

Way Forward: The formation of the Turmeric Board is a crucial step in recognizing turmeric's potential in a variety of areas. From its historical roots to its development as a biomedical miracle, turmeric is on the verge of achieving the same status as other revered spices. The Turmeric Board intends to guide India's golden spice into a new era of growth, innovation, and worldwide recognition.