Turmeric – the golden spice
Turmeric or curcuma is often referred to as the ‘golden spice’ and is a staple-spice in Asian cuisine. This root, scientifically known as Curcuma domestica, belongs to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) and is known for its numerous health benefits. Curkuma is valued not only for its earthy flavour and bright yellow colour, but also for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties thanks to the ingredient curcumin.
Freshly harvested turmeric-rhizomes
Handmade organic turmeric powder drying in bamboo basket
Turmeric has played a central role in ethnobotany for centuries – both in the kitchen and in traditional medicine. In Ayurvedic medicine in particular, turmeric is used as an indispensable ingredient to treat stomach problems and inflammation. In Hindu culture, too, turmeric is closely associated with religious
rituals and is regarded as sacred.
At the Bamboo Retreat Hotel in Sikkim, sustainability and harmony with nature take centre stage. Here we grow various medicinal plants and spices in our own organic garden – turmeric is one of our valuable crops. At the hotel, we use turmeric in our cuisine. This closeness to nature and the traditional cultivation of turmeric make the hotel an ideal place for relaxation and detox. At Bamboo Retreat Hotel even one of our guestrooms is dedicated to the golden spice.
This guestroom is dedicated to the golden spice
Helen presents ingredients to preserve «Chichire-Korila» (Cyclantheria pedata) with black salt and turmeric. The tray is woven of banboo, called «Nanglo» in Sikkim.
Turmeric in bloom at Bamboo Retreat Organic Garden
Travelling to the Bamboo Retreat not only offers the opportunity to experience the breathtaking Himalayas, but also the richness of the region’s ethnobotanical traditions. Helen Kämpf, co-founder of the hotel and the travel platform sikkim.ch, shares her knowledge of local medicinal plants and their
uses.
Black turmeric (Curcuma caesia) is the lesser-known counterpart to the widely used yellow turmeric (Curcuma longa). While yellow turmeric is prized for the bright yellow color of ist rhizomes and its earthy flavor, black turmeric has a deep, purplish-blue hue and a more pungent, camphor-like aroma. Unlike yellow turmeric, which is celebrated for its culinary uses and anti-inflammatory properties, black turmeric is predominantly used in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic and folk remedies. It is believed to have potent healing properties, especially in treating respiratory issues, pain relief, and improving digestion. Black turmeric can be used fresh, dried as powder as a tincture or Oxymel.
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Freshly cut black turmeric, Curcuma caesia
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Powder made of dried black-turmeric root can be used to boost the immune system.
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Longmit shows harvest of black turmeric (kalo haldi) at Bamboo Retreat Hotel
A special recipe that Helen reveals is the ‘Golden Oxymel’ – a soothing mixture of honey, apple cider vinegar, lemon, ginger and turmeric. This tried-and-tested recipe is not only healthy, but also incredibly tasty.
Recipe: Golden Oxymel
- 150g liquid honey
- 50g apple cider vinegar
- 1/8 organic lemon
- 2cm organic ginger
- A small piece of organic turmeric root or 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Oxymel with turmeric serves as an immune system booster
Preparation: Mix all ingredients well and store in a glass container. The Oxymel can be taken pure, dissolved in warm water or added to salad or soups. Take 1 – 2 Teaspoons a day – perfect for a daily immune boost.
A visit to the Bamboo Retreat Hotel with us in Sikkim is more than just an ordinary tour. It is a journey of discovery into the world of ethnobotanical medicinal plants and their many uses. The combination of tradition and modernity can be experienced here while you enjoy the beauty of the Himalayan region. Discover the secrets of turmeric and other medicinal plants on our tour « Rural Sikkim»
Our round trip through Sikkim emphasises the breathtaking nature, the cultural highlights and the life of the locals to provide you with true insights on the land and its people. Stay overnight with a local family and immerse yourself in villages and family life. And enjoy fine locally owned hotels and lodges that reflect Sikkim’s culture and history. On your trip, you will of course also visit the most beautiful
monasteries and temples that this culturally rich region has to offer. Enjoy amazing landscapes and the world’s third highest mounten, Mt. Khanchenjunga. Discover our travel packages or book a customised trip to suit your taste via sikkim.ch
Discover the beautiful plants and landscapes in Sikkim.
