Turmeric is a derivative of the Curcuma longa plant root. Turmeric is an ingredient common in traditional Indian spices used for cooking. The active ingredient is curcumin, which is responsible for the peppery, bitter taste and aroma you notice in curry powder. In addition, turmeric adds the yellow color to some mustards, has dye properties and is used for medicinal purposes.
History
The history of Turmeric dates back 4,000 years. Native to Indonesia and Southern India, the herb gained popularity in Ayurvedic medicine. Introduced to Europe in the 13th century by Arab traders, the recognition of therapeutic properties paved the way for China, India, Indonesia, Haiti, Jamaica, the Philippines and Taiwan to become the leading producers of turmeric, according to WHFood.org.
Uses
Turmeric is popular in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. You can purchase turmeric as a powder, capsule, tea or as a liquid extract. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), turmeric has the potential to act as an anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agent in lab studies. Positive results were reported in test tube and animal studies on the use of curcumin in the prevention of prostate, breast, skin and colon cancer.
Turmeric may help relieve symptoms associated with heartburn, stomach ulcers and gallstones, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). The active ingredient, curcumin, aids in the production of bile and helps with your digestion. The German Commission E--responsible for approving herbal medicines in Germany--approved turmeric to help with bloating and gas associated with indigestion, according to UMMC.
On the skin, turmeric is beneficial for treating eczema and works as an antiseptic for cuts, wounds and bruises when used as a paste, according to NCCAM.
Side Effects
The NCCAM reports that although side effects are rare, turmeric may cause indigestion, nausea and diarrhea in high dosages, and it may worsen the symptoms of gallbladder disease from increased bile production. In animal studies, liver problems were reported while using high dosages.
Contraindications
Turmeric may affect the ability to clot blood. If you are currently taking aspirin, anticoagulants or blood thinners, avoid using turmeric. According to Medline Plus, animal studies resulted in an increased risk of bleeding when combining turmeric with herbs and/or supplements that increase the risk of bleeding, such as ginkgo biloba, garlic and saw palmetto.
In addition, if you are taking medications for diabetes or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), avoid taking turmeric unless under the suggestion of your health care provider because turmeric may lower your blood sugar or alter the effects of diabetes medication, according to Medline Plus.
Warning
Turmeric is not a substitute for medical treatment; consult with your health care provider to discuss any potential risks. Turmeric is a dietary supplement per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines and not certified for medical use.
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