DOWN TO FARM
The Diamond Island Newsletter
#103
**Golden Armor & the Sense of Wonder**
Greetings Growth Enthusiasts,
Welcome to the Third harvest of the DTF newsletter.
If you are just joining in, I’d like to introduce myself.
My name is Carey Bonn.
I am a small business owner, a dedicated farmer, a student of agriculture, and the steward of Diamond Island Farm on the North Shore of Haleiwa, Oahu.
My gratitude for every second that I have been fortunate enough to experience here remains at the core of who I am.
My intention is to communicate to you some of the ways that life here on the island has helped me to reconnect with my purpose.
I'm thrilled to be on this journey with you and to explore the concepts related to wellness, sustainability, and the profound connection between our minds and what truly matters...
By the way, did anyone see the Full Moon in all its Glory?
Yes?
No?
Well, if you missed it…
No worries…
Your prayers will be answered…
And the dreams in your heart will be restored.
On the 30th of this month (August)...
It’s a…
BLUE MOON.
And when that second chance comes around…
Make sure you are not standing alone.
See you on the BLUE MOON.
Let's Grow! 🌱
In the meantime...
You can find us at the Market...
This Saturday (8/5/23)
Kaka‘ako Farmers Market
Saturday, 8am-12pm
919 Ala Moana Blvd & 210 Ward Ave, Kaka’ako
(Park at the old lot at 1050 Ala Moana Blvd. or at Fisherman's Wharf)
Farmers Market Lineup:
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lettuce mix
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collards
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chard
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fennel
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okra
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purplette green onion
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purple daikon
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watermelon radish
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turmeric
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marigold blossoms
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limes
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lemons
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oranges
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papaya
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dragon fruit ( red and white)
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sunflowers (SPECIAL $2 each)
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flower bouquets
Microgreens:
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Sunflower
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radish
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Pea shoot
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broccoli
**Curcuma longa: The Golden Armor**
Once upon a root in Southeast Asia, a little known rhizome called Curcuma longa began its wondrous journey.
As the story goes… this earthen delight with the rich golden hue quickly became a treasured spice and a symbol of prosperity.
Curcuma longa is also known as Tumeric.
**Ancient Origins**: Turmeric's tale dates back over 4,000 years when it first graced the plates of ancient civilizations.
The Harappan, natives to the Indus Valley were wise peoples.
They weren't just seasoning their dishes with the golden wonder; they recognized turmeric's medicinal values and it was their discovery that unlocked the secrets that transformed this root into the powerful elixir of vitality that it is today!
**Ayurvedic Elixir**: Turmeric was recognized for many medicinal uses and its power was transcribed into the sacred scriptures of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine.
Ayurvedic sages revered it for its healing properties, using it to alleviate inflammation, aid digestion, and promote overall well-being.
Turmeric possessed healing powers that would guide people towards the path of good health for thousands of years.
**Spice Route Explorer**: As time passed, this ancient wisdom spread and the Curcuma longa was no longer a secret.
The journey began to scale for the golden root as it was regarded as a precious commodity along the spice routes, traveling far and wide.
It danced in the dishes of traders, adventurers, and explorers, adding its exotic healing touch to their cuisines.
From India to the Middle East and beyond, turmeric sprinkled its magical powers across the globe.
**Warrior's Shield**: During the times of fierce battles, warriors donned turmeric paste on their bodies as an armor of protection.
And hey, who needs iron when you have the The Golden Armor!?
**Golden Trade**: As the spice trade thrived, turmeric became a currency itself! In fact, it was often used to barter for other precious goods.
Imagine walking into a market and trading turmeric for a shiny trinket or a sack of rice!
How's that for being a golden deal-maker?
**Curcumin Discovery**: Turmeric's moment of fame arrived when scientists isolated the active compound curcumin, the superstar behind many of its health benefits.
Curcumin proved its mettle in lab tests and various scientific studies, proving that the benefits of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds were undeniable.
You could say curcumin is the real-life superhero of the spice world. And so...
The Golden Armor returns!
**Modern Marvel**: With modern science backing its ancient reputation, turmeric found its way into our spice racks and onto our supplement shelves.
It's not just a spice anymore; it's a health revolution in a pinch!
Turmeric chai lattes, golden milk, and curcumin capsules have become the new wellness elixirs. Cheers to good health, one turmeric shot at a time!
**Beyond the Kitchen**: But turmeric's influence doesn't stop there! It's a multi-talented marvel. From dyes to cosmetics, this golden wonder finds its way into various aspects of life. Is there anything turmeric can't do? We're not sure!
**The Golden Aura**: As we reflect on the history of turmeric, we can't help but admire its radiant hue and the warmth it brings to our lives.
It's not just a spice; it's a symbol of resilience, healing, and the richness of human connection with nature.
Turmeric is a vibrant yellow spice that has been recognized for its health benefits both as a food ingredient and as a supplement.
So, let's raise our golden cups to this humble rhizome that has shaped cultures, healed bodies, and graced our plates throughout the ages. Turmeric, you've truly earned your golden place in history!
**Here are Tumeric's Benefits as a Food Ingredient:**
**Anti-Inflammatory Properties:** Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has strong anti-inflammatory effects that may help alleviate chronic inflammation and related conditions.
**Antioxidant Power:** Turmeric is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
**Digestive Aid:** Turmeric can stimulate bile production and support the digestive process, aiding in the breakdown of fats and promoting better digestion.
**Brain Health:** Curcumin may enhance brain function and support cognitive health by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, which are linked to improved memory and learning.
**Heart Health:** Regular consumption of turmeric has been associated with improved heart health, as it may help lower LDL cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and enhance overall cardiovascular function.
**Arthritis Relief:** The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric may provide relief to individuals with arthritis by reducing joint pain and stiffness.
**Here are Tumeric's Benefits as a Supplement:**
**Joint Health:** Turmeric supplements can help manage osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms due to their anti-inflammatory effects on joint pain and mobility.
**Anti-Inflammatory Support:** Curcumin supplements may assist in managing chronic inflammation, which is implicated in various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative conditions.
**Antioxidant Boost:** Turmeric supplements provide concentrated antioxidants, aiding in neutralizing free radicals and supporting overall cellular health.
**Digestive Comfort:** Turmeric supplements might ease digestive discomfort, improve gut health, and assist in managing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
**Liver Health:** Curcumin has shown potential in supporting liver function and protecting against liver diseases by promoting detoxification and reducing oxidative stress.
**Skin Benefits:** Turmeric supplements could contribute to healthy skin by reducing inflammation and supporting collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity.
Remember that while turmeric offers numerous health benefits, its absorption can be enhanced by consuming it with black pepper, which contains piperine.
Before starting any new supplement regimen, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
The Golden Elixir of the Gods
Here's a simple turmeric-based golden chai recipe for you to try on your own...
Ingredients:
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1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
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1 teaspoon ground turmeric or 1 inch piece fresh turmeric, skinned, chopped or grated
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
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A pinch of black pepper
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1 teaspoon honey or sweetener of your choice (optional)
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1 black tea bag (optional)
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Drop of Vanilla Extract (optional)
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Water
Instructions:
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In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk and a 1/2 cup of water over medium heat until it's warm but not boiling.
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Add 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom, and a pinch of black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine the spices.
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If you'd like to include black tea, you can add a black tea bag to the mixture at this point. Let it steep for about 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea.
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Once the flavors have infused and the tea is brewed, remove the tea bag (if used) and turn off the heat.
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If desired, add 1 teaspoon of honey or a sweetener of your choice. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
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Give the chai a final stir and strain it into your favorite mug.
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Your homemade golden chai is ready to enjoy! You can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for garnish, if you like.
Remember, feel free to adjust the spice quantities to suit your preferences.
Enjoy the soothing and aromatic flavors of your homemade turmeric-based golden chai!
Reminder: Don’t Forget to Get Outside
Here are a few reasons (if you need 'em)...
**Perspective Shift:** Experiencing awe in nature can shift your perspective away from daily stressors and minor concerns. It reminds you of the grandeur and beauty of the world, helping you gain a broader outlook on life.
**Boosted Immune System:** Spending time in natural surroundings has been linked to a stronger immune system. The exposure to phytoncides (natural compounds found in trees and plants) can enhance your body's defense mechanisms.
**Sense of Wonder:** Awe-inspiring experiences in nature evoke a sense of wonder and humility. This feeling of awe can cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the world's beauty, leading to a more positive outlook on life.
**Social Connection:** Sharing experiences of awe in nature with others can strengthen social bonds and create meaningful memories. Group outings or conversations about nature can enhance relationships and foster a sense of community.
Getting together is important, even if you only meet once in a Blue Moon.
Incorporating regular moments of awe and appreciation for nature into your life can have profound and lasting positive effects on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Wrap-up:
Thank you for joining us on another journey.
Cultivating knowledge and focusing our minds on what truly matters.
As we tend to our organic farms and embrace sustainable practices, let us also tend to our inner landscapes, nurturing a mindful approach to life and a deeper connection with the natural world.