This fruit-bearing tree of the coffee family is native to Southeast Asia. It has a strong odor and its fruit is a staple in many cuisines. This is why it is sometimes called the “cheese fruit”. It is oval-shaped at slowly transitions from green to white as it ripens and inside contains many seeds. The fruit has traditional uses in folk medicine, seen being used to treat colds, flu, anxiety, and high blood pressure.prevents weed growth.
The spice has importance in Khmer culture as they are stapled ingredients in many curries giving them their signature yellow color. Additionally, they are used as natural dye seen with monk’s robes.
Curcumin is the main active compound and a strong antioxidant found in turmeric. The exceptionally potent anti-inflammatory compound, however, is not well absorbed by our bodies. Consumption with other compounds helps increase absorption such as piperine found in black pepper which enhances it by 2,000%.
The spice has an earthy bitter taste and a distinct mildly aromatic scent which can be found in both our herbal tea and gin.
FOREST GARDEN LAYER: Root layer
HARVEST SEASON: End of the dry or rainy season
KHMER MEDICINAL PROPERTY: Cold
