Turmeric is the rhizome, or underground stem, of a perennial plant native to southern Asia. Its best known for its bright yellow color, which it lends to curries and mustard. It has also been used as a dye. Turmeric has long been used in south Asian cultures as a culinary spice; it also has a prominent place in Ayurvedic and folk medicine practice. Its active ingredient is the antioxidant curcurmin, which gives turmeric its color and is being studied for its possible anti-cancer properties.
Anti-Inflammatory
The curcumin in turmeric acts as an anti-inflammatory, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Preliminary studies cited by UCLA's Brain Research Institute suggest that cucurmin blocks the effect of Tumor Necrosis Factor or TNF, which contributes number of inflammatory autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Consume 1-3 grams of dried powdered root per day, or 400-600 mg of curcurmin powder three times a day, to relieve the pain and swelling of osteo and rheumatoid arthritis.
Digestive Troubles
Turmeric is used to treat a variety of digestive complains including nausea and indigestion. It stimulates the production of bile and may also be helpful in preventing or reducing the incidence of gallstones. Dissolve one teaspoon of powdered root in a cup of water and drink three times a day.
Skin Problems
Turmeric's anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties make it a good remedy for various skin problems including athlete's foot and psoriasis. In India, turmeric is applied to the pad of a bandage to assist in wound healing--Johnson and Johnson even sell a turmeric-infused Band Aid in that country. Make a paste of the powdered root with water and apply to affected areas three times a day. Keep in mind that this preparation may stain skin and clothes.
Cholesterol and Clots
Turmeric shows promise in animal studies in reducing cholesterol and preventing atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, according the the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may also help prevent the formation of dangerous clots that can block blood vessels. Take 1-3 grams of dried powdered root per day, or 400-600 milligrams of curcurmin powder three times a day.
Anti-Tumor
According to the Los Angeles Times, there is currently a great deal of scientific attention being given to turmeric and curcurmin's possible anti-cancer benefits. Population studies have demonstrated that people in India have particularly low incidences of certain cancers. Research published in the British Journal of Cancer showed that cucurmin kills esophageal cancer cells in the lab. Supplement with 1-3 grams of dried powdered root per day, or 400-600 milligrams of curcurmin powder three times a day but, as the University of Maryland Medical Center notes: "Cancer should be treated with conventional medications; never rely on alternative therapies alone to treat cancer."
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