The Science of Spices: How Turmeric, Cumin & Ghee Fuel a Healthy Lifestyle?

Turmeric, cumin, and ghee have been used for centuries in Indian cuisines, especially Sattvic food, not only for their flavour and essence, but for the unparalleled benefits they bring to our health. These easily accessible ingredients can be a simple way to add taste and nutrition to your everyday meals.

In this space, we are going to take a close look at each of their health benefits and find out the synergy of them together. We will also take a look at the philosophy of Sattvic food. This is where you are going to learn how the simple ingredients found in your kitchen can bring life-altering benefits.

The Sattvic Philosophy: More Than Just Flavour

Most people, when they hear Sattvic, often think only of food. They think it is only about simple meals, mild spices, and vegetarian dishes. However, in Indian philosophy, Sattvic is much more than a dietary label. It represents a whole way of living that aims for clarity, balance, and inner harmony.

In Yogic and Ayurvedic thought, everything in nature is influenced by three Gunas (qualities): Sattva (purity and balance), Rajas (activity and restlessness), and Tamas (inertia and dullness). Sattvic is the quality that promotes awareness, calmness, and understanding. It is associated with light, wisdom, and steadiness of mind.

Turmeric: The Golden Healer of Indian Cuisine

Turmeric is a spice belonging to the ginger family. Having been used in the Indian subcontinent for centuries, both as a spice and a medicinal herb, it is held with extreme reverence in the Indian culture.

Numerous studies have even shown that it contains compounds with immense medicinal properties. These compounds are known as curcuminoids. The most important one among them is curcumin, which is its primary active ingredient.

Let us find out how turmeric can aid you in having a healthy lifestyle.

Serves as an Anti-inflammatory Agent

Curcumin, found in turmeric, is a bioactive substance that can help effectively combat inflammation, although very high doses are required to produce medicinal effects. However, even in small doses, it can help you fight the inflammation in several diseases and conditions, especially rheumatoid arthritis.

Contains Bioactive Compounds

As stated earlier, turmeric contains several bioactive compounds that have immense health benefits. Primary among them is improving your gut health and strengthening the immune system. Since curcumin is also fat-soluble, it means that it easily breaks down and dissolves in fat or oil. As such, it is a good idea to take curcumin supplements with a meal that is high in fat.

Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

Heart disease causes thousands of deaths across the globe annually. Research suggests that something as simple as turmeric can aid in avoiding this aspect. Curcumin has the potential to protect against many heart diseases as it improves heart health. It does so by enhancing the endothelial function (blood vessel lining), reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol, and potentially lowering blood pressure.

Boosts the Antioxidant Capacity of the Body

Oxidative damage is one of the leading causes behind ageing. It basically involves free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules that cause damage to other cells in your body. It is believed that Curcumin is a potent antioxidant that can help neutralise the free radicals its strong chemical structure.

Accelerates the Development of New Brain Cells

Contrary to popular belief, even in adulthood, your brain neurons have the capacity to form new connections. In various areas of your brain, they can multiply and increase in number, boosting your brain. One of the robust drivers of this process is BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), and regular moderate consumption of curcumin can aid in its development.

Cumin: The Digestive Powerhouse

Cumin is a spice that comes from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant. Many Indian dishes use cumin for its distinct flavour and aroma. Its flavour has been noted to be nutty, earthy, warm, and spicy. It lends its distinctive flavour to chilli, tamales, and many Indian curries. It has long been used in traditional medicine.

Let us find out how cumin can aid you in having a healthy lifestyle.

Promotes Digestion

The most well-known traditional use of cumin is for indigestion. In fact, modern research hails cumin as an active component to promote digestion. It also helps in increasing the activity of digestive enzymes. Furthermore, it helps increase the release of bile from the liver. Bile aids digest fats and the nutrients in your gut.

Contains Beneficial Plant Compounds

Cumin contains many plant compounds that are associated with potential health benefits, including flavonoids, terpenes, phenols, and alkaloids. These serve as antioxidants that help reduce damage caused by free radicals to your body. The antioxidants present in cumin give an electron to a lonely free radical, which makes it more stable.

May Improve Blood Cholesterol

Cumin has also improved blood cholesterol in clinical studies. It plays a vital role in improving cholesterol by reducing "bad" LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol and triglycerides and increasing "good" HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol. It also supports cardiovascular health.

Serves as a Rich Source of Iron

Cumin seeds are a potent source of iron. As such, those suffering from iron deficiencies need to include it in their diet. Children, especially, need iron to help with growth, and young women need it during menstruation. Very few foods are as iron-dense as cumin. Even when used in small amounts as a seasoning, it can have immense effects.

May Prevent Food-Borne Illnesses

One of the underrated aspects of cumin is related to food safety. It has antimicrobial properties that help lower the risk of food-borne infections. Many of its components reduce the growth of food-borne bacteria and various kinds of infectious fungi. After digestion, cumin releases a component known as megalomicin, which has antibiotic properties.

Ghee: The Sacred Healthy Fat

Ghee is essentially clarified butter. It is more concentrated in fat than your regular butter since it doesn’t contain water or milk solids. It has been used in Indian cultures for ages.

The term Ghee originates from the Sanskrit word meaning “sprinkled.” Originally, it was created to prevent butter from spoiling during the hot, summer weather. Apart from cooking, it has been extensively used in the Indian alternative medicine system Ayurveda, wherein it’s known as Ghrita.

Let us find out how Ghee can aid you in having a healthy lifestyle.

Boosts Vitamin A Intake

Ghee is a rich source of Vitamin A, which ensures it has exemplary health implications because it can help improve the condition of your skin and eye health. Vitamin A also aids in avoiding chest, throat, and abdominal infections. Furthermore, it will also boost your immunity.

Reduces Constipation

Ghee functions as a natural lubricant. As such, it helps get rid of constipation and promotes easy bowel movement. Those who are suffering from chronic constipation can benefit a lot from regular Ghee intake in moderation, since it helps in the smoother passing of stool through the intestines.

Keeps Body Warm

Consumption of Ghee regularly in winters can help you stay warm and energised. Therefore, Ghee is often an integral ingredient in many Indian winter dishes. Nothing like bringing flavour and warmth together.

Acts as an Anti-inflammatory Agent

Ghee has butyrate, which is an essential fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties. As such, Ghee is widely used to treat swelling and burns. Furthermore, it also has Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), which is another pivotal anti-inflammatory agent. Those suffering from inflammation need to include Ghee in their everyday diet because of this.

Nourishes the Skin

As we stated earlier, Ghee has antioxidant properties that help in protecting your skin barrier and moisturising the skin. It has fatty acids, which penetrate the skin deeper and offer long-lasting moisture.

The Synergy of Spices: A Symphony of Health

Spices are often celebrated for their aroma and taste, but their true power lies in how they work together. In many traditional systems, especially Indian cooking and Ayurveda, spices are rarely used alone. Their synergy creates balance, enhances nutrition, and supports overall well-being.

When combined thoughtfully, these spices complement one another. For example, turmeric’s effects are enhanced when paired with black pepper, while cumin and coriander balance heat and coolness in digestion. Together, they create harmony rather than excess. When they are consumed with Ghee, their potential heightens.

Spice synergy is about moderation and balance, not intensity. A well-spiced dish does not overwhelm the senses. Rather, it supports the body gently. This is why traditional recipes often use small amounts of many spices instead of large amounts of one. The result is food that is flavourful, digestible, and energising without being harsh.

Experience the Spice Trail at MyGovindas

At out Indian vegetarian restaurant, spices are not just added, but they are instead guided. Each dish takes you on a carefully curated spice trail, where tradition, balance, and intention come together to create food that nourishes both body and mind.

Rooted in Sattvic principles, the use of spices at our restaurants is thoughtful and precise. The golden depth of turmeric, the grounding notes of cumin, and the gentle warmth from Ghee are blended to complement one another. The result is a flavour that is rich yet calm, vibrant yet balanced.

This spice trail at our restaurants is inspired by ancient culinary wisdom, where spices were chosen not only for taste but also for how they support digestion, clarity, and overall well-being. Every meal reflects harmony between ingredients, between tradition and modern life, and between enjoyment and nourishment.

Our restaurants in Karama, JLT, Silicon Oasis, and Arjan leave no stone unturned to serve you the best. Dining with us is an experience of mindful eating. The aromas invite you to slow down, the flavours encourage awareness, and the food leaves you feeling light, satisfied, and centred.

Catering for Health-Conscious Events

With our professional teams experienced in both large-scale festivals and smaller corporate events, we take care of the logistics so that you can focus on the event itself.

Our catering services allow menu customisation to meet your guests’ preferences and dietary requirements. Whether you want vegan, gluten-free, or lighter Sattvic options, we can tailor dishes as per your needs.

With live cooking stations and interactive counters (like Chaat bars or speciality food counters), we bring excitement to your events without compromising on health. Your guests can enjoy fresh, vibrant flavours made right before them.

To Conclude

Some of the most powerful tools for everyday wellness are also the simplest. Turmeric, cumin, and Ghee have been used together for centuries in traditional Indian cooking, not just for their flavour, but for balance, nourishment, and long-term health.

When combined, turmeric, cumin, and Ghee create more than the sum of their parts. Ghee acts as a carrier, cumin supports digestion, and turmeric brings balance, allowing the body to benefit fully from each ingredient. This synergy is why they appear together so often in time-tested recipes.

FAQs

What makes food 'Sattvic' at MyGovindas?

At our pure veg restaurant, we ensure our Sattvic food is made of fresh vegetarian ingredients without onion and garlic, aimed at the betterment of your health. Our Sattvic cuisines are whole, fresh, natural, whole, and easily digestible.

They help promote clarity, purity, and peace, which are deeply rooted in Ayurveda. We focus on plant-based foods, such as veggies, fruits, whole grains, seeds, and nuts, all of which are prepared mindfully.

We avoid stale, processed, too spicy, or heavy items to uplift your mind and body. The key factors we check in our Sattvic food preparation are lightness, freshness, nourishment, naturalness, and preparation with love and respect. This aligns with spiritual growth as well as your overall well-being.

Is Ghee healthy for daily consumption?

Yes, Ghee can be healthy for daily consumption, but keep in mind to have it in moderation (about 1-2 teaspoons/day). This way, you can benefit from its vitamins (A, D, E, K) and healthy fats. One of the healthiest variants of Ghee that you can include in your everyday diet is the A2 Bilona Ghee, as it uses the traditional method of churning Ghee.

Regular moderate consumption of Ghee supports immunity, digestion, and skin health. However, excessive intake of it can add significant calories and saturated fat, which potentially may cause weight gain or severely affect cholesterol levels. Therefore, moderation is key.

Are there vegan options that use these spices?

Yes, a wide range of vegan dishes in our restaurants use one or a blend of turmeric, cumin, and Ghee for the flavour, aroma, colour, and the health benefits they bring. You will find these spices and Ghee in some of our most popular vegan options, such as Green Peas Pulao, Vrindavan Khichdi, Jeera Rice, Aloo Bhindi Masala, Kadai Gobi, Chana Masala, Veg Kolapuri, and Soya Haryali Tikka, among others.

Does MyGovindas offer gluten-free Indian dishes?

Yes, we value the lifestyle choices and diet preferences of our clients. As such, we have made sure that our dynamic menu across all our restaurants in Dubai has gluten-free variants of your favourite dishes.

Be it Dhokla or Sweet Corn Soup, Paneer Achari Tikka or Makai Seekh Kebab, Dal Panchatantra or Kadai Vegetable, you will find gluten-free options across the board in our restaurants.

Can I order spice-rich, healthy food for home delivery in Dubai?

Yes, you can order spice-rich, healthy food for home delivery in Dubai with our online order option. Our professional chefs use their years of culinary expertise to bring you delicious, spice-rich food without compromising on the health quotient. So, now you get to check the boxes of taste, nutrition, and convenience all at the same time.

Are the spices used at MyGovindas suitable for children?

Yes, the spices that we use in our restaurants are suitable for children. However, if you want your food to be less spicy for your children, you may make a special request while placing your order, and our chefs will prepare the dishes accordingly for your children.