The Ginger Turmeric Honey Spread is a delicious treat that doubles as a natural medicine.Turmeric is an amazing medicinal herb and the basis of much traditional Indian cooking. By itself it is antibacterial and an major antioxidant. Ginger and turmeric together are even more potent than either alone. In animal studies they lower LDL cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis They kill off Helicobacter Pylori – the bacteria that is responsible for stomach ulcers and poor digestion. The main ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, is being tested in Phase II trials against colon cancer. It has been shown to protect against a number of cancers in animal studies. The two have been shown in animal studies to lower LDL cholesterol, balance blood sugar, and kill off many unhealthy bacteria, fungi and parasties.

How to make Ginger Turmeric Honey Spread

Fresh ginger root – available at most grocery stores.
Fresh turmeric root – usually available at health food mrakets or try an Asian market
Raw honey – local unprocessed honey is best.
Fresh ground black pepper.
(optional) Grate a small amount of a hot pepper

Finely grate about equal amounts of fresh ginger and turmeric root. Grind a small amount of black pepper. Add pepper for more pizazz – from serano mild to habenaro wild. Add just enough honey to mix into a spread. Keep covered and refrigerated. It should last several weeks in the refrigerator. I usually make about a 1/2 cup of ginger and turmeric each at a time. A word of warning – turmeric will stain – your fingers, your clothes, the counter, floor. I use a glove.

Anti-Inflammatory

Together ginger and turmeric are a powerful anti-inflammatory pair. Turmeric was more effective at reducing arthritic pain than a NSAID drug but without the serious side effects of chronic use. These drugs not only suppress the pain but work by interfering with the inflammation inside cells that leads to tissue destruction in arthritis. And unlike many arthritis drugs, they actually support the digestive system instead of tearing it

Ginger and honey have been used for thousands of years on a daily basis. And I think they taste great together. works like a jam, but I just put a teaspoon on the side of my plate as a condiment (usually along with cilantro pesto – that recipe later). If you eat rolls or toast it is like a jam with real pizazz. Of course if you want to really kick it up you can add some heat with your favorite grated hot pepper, from mild serano to wild habenero. The peppers will definitely add to the therapeutic effect!

A treat

We’re following a Ketogenic Diet, but I this is a special treat that is so full of health that I find room for it in my daily allotment of carbohydrates. It’s quick and easy. Add the black pepper if you tolerate it. The pepper not only gives it a zing but also greatly increases absorption of the turmeric. If you are concerned about the honey you could substitute a good oil. If you can’t find fresh turmeric it’s OK to use turmeric powder. The powder is available in bulk at some health markets or online.

Caution

Both ginger and turmeric act as mild anticoagulants. Use caution and ask your prescribing doctor if you are taking prescription anticoagulant (anti-clotting). If you have a genetic tendency to clotting (more on this) but are not on medication taking this mix would be an excellent preventive measure. If you relatives with clotting issues it might be wise to see me for suggestions on genetic testing and natural treatments. Otherwise there is no known toxicity to either ingredient

Other uses

Other uses: You can make a tea by adding a teaspoon to a glass of hot water. You can mix it with some oil and make a quick salad dressing. You can use it as a glaze on fish, meat or chicken, broiled or grilled. Let me know what you come up with.

We found this spread while visiting the weekly outdoor market in Tampa, Florida.