Turmeric's Medical Properties

Turmeric is the rhizome or underground stem of the Curcuma plant with rough, segmented skin and a deep orange flesh. This ancient spice is a native of the Southeast Asia and has traditionally been used as a textile dye and condiment. Since 1900 BC, turmeric has been used to treat a wide variety of disease and conditions, including those of the skin, pulmonary and gastrointestinal systems, liver problems aches, pains, wounds and disorders.

Turmeric has a peppery, warm and bitter flavor, with a mild fragrance slightly reminiscent of orange and ginger. Although turmeric can be taken in capsules, teas or liquid extract, it is usually available in powder form. Turmeric is sometimes confused with saffron because of similar staining capabilities, although it does not share the aroma of saffron, which gives a more orange color.

The turmeric plant is an important medical herb which has mild digestive, stimulant and carminative properties. In a study, published in the Journal ofEthnopharmacology, turmeric has been used to aid liver function, relieve arthritis pain and regulate menstruation. It is also used for curing digestive disorders, helping to break down fats during the digestion process.

Turmeric has also been proven useful to treat gastritis, stomach ulcers and stomach problems caused by stress or alcohol. The spice is also said to be very effective in the treatment for inflammations caused by osteoarthritis and for helping to unclog arteries partially blocked by atherosclerosis. Its use in breaking down saturated fats in cholesterol is becoming well accepted.

Turmeric's powerful anti-inflammatory properties have long been recognized by both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine practitioners to treat a wide variety of conditions, including flatulence, jaundice, bloody urine, haemorrhage, toothache, bruises, chest pain and colic.

Turmeric has been proven effective in stimulating improvement in bile flow, making it very beneficial for people suffering from digestive and gall bladder problems. In a study, published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, in addition to their anticancer effects, antioxidants in turmeric may also protect the brain, kidneys, liver and lungs from damage by alcohol, drugs, radiation, heavy metals and chemicals.

Turmeric has been applied directly to the skin for eczema and wound healing. It is also used for conditions such as heartburn, and has been shown to act against pus-producing infections (Staphlococcus aureus). Topically, turmeric may be used as a powder or mixed with oil and made into a paste to treat cuts, scrapes, and skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis, dipper rash and psoriasis.

Turmeric is considered safe for most adults. However, high doses or long-term use of turmeric may cause indigestion, stomach upsets and even ulcers. People suffering from gallbladder disease should avoid using turmeric as a dietary supplement. The spice may also interact with drugs used to treat high blood pressure.

Reference:

Peerarat Thaina, Pattreeya Tungcharoen, Malinee Wongnawa, Wantana Reanmongkol, Sanan Subhadhirasakul. Uterine relaxant effects of Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb. rhizome extracts. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 121, Issue 3, 30 January 2009, Pages 433-443.

Supachai Yodkeeree, Wittaya Chaiwangyen, Spiridione Garbisa, Pornngarm Limtrakul. Curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin differentially inhibit cancer cell invasion through the down-regulation of MMPs and uPA. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, Volume 20, Issue 2, February 2009, Pages 87-95.