Turmeric is an herbal remedy and spice that has been used for thousands of years in various cultures throughout the world. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that turmeric has wide-ranging health effects and has been used to treat many ailments. Turmeric is available for consumption in many forms, including capsules, tinctures and fluid extracts. Turmeric, though helpful for many people, should only be used medicinally after discussing its use with your family doctor.
Plant Information
Turmeric is a perennial plant indigenous to certain parts of South Asia. Turmeric is commonly used as both an herbal remedy and a coloring agent for butter, cheese and other food products. This herb, which is the leading ingredient in curry powder, contains many important plant chemicals, such as curcumin, and nutrients, including several B-vitamins and zinc. The rhizomes, along with the roots and bulbs, are used in herbal supplements to treat various health problems.
Herb Actions
Turmeric may have several health benefits. In his book "Therapeutic Herb Manual," master herbalist Ed Smith notes that turmeric helps protect liver health and function, reduces inflammation throughout your body, and helps scavenge free radicals, which can cause cell damage in various tissues. Turmeric may also help prevent injurious blood clots, impair tumor and cancer growth, stimulate the flow of bile and decrease your elevated cholesterol levels. Turmeric, when applied to your skin, may fight bacteria and fungus.
Herb Uses
Turmeric is one of the most commonly used herbal remedies, largely due to its ability to treat a broad range of health problems. In "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that turmeric may effectively treat arthritis conditions, such as osteoarthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and skin conditions, such as psoriasis. This herb may be a helpful adjunct in cancer treatment, including the treatment of pancreatic cancer. If you have poor digestion, liver dysfunction or gallstones, you may benefit from using turmeric.
Contraindications
The medicinal use of turmeric is contraindicated for some people. If a substance is contraindicated, this means it should not be used or used only under the care and guidance of a health care professional. Turmeric, as a medicinal substance, is not recommended if you have certain medical conditions, including biliary tract obstruction, as curcumin -- one of the principle active ingredients in this herb -- promotes bile secretion. Extended use of this herbal remedy can cause gastric distress in some people. Talk with your doctor before using turmeric to treat your ailments.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Turmeric
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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