Turmeric

The Turmeric plant, though long used as an important coloring agent for curries and other foods, is also an important medicinal herb, used by both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine practitioners. Known also by is Latin name curcuma longa or simply curcumin, the Turmeric plant is used to treat a number of medical disorders, including digestive disorders, liver problems, and skin diseases. It has also been proven effective in stimulating improvement in bile flow, making it very beneficial for people suffering for both digestive and gall bladder problems.

The plant is a relative of the Ginger plant, and grows to a height of 5 feet in tropical parts of southern Asia. The plant is characteristic in having a sharp, bitter taste. The Turmeric roots are dried and boiled to make the familiar yellow powder most commonly used in food preparations.

As a medical preparation, it is used for curing digestive disorders, helping to break down fats during the digestion process. It also has been proven useful for stomach problems ranging from gastritis to stomach problems caused by stress or alcohol. The Turmeric herb is also said to be very effective in treatment for inflammations caused by osteoarthritis and for helping to unclog arteries partially blocked by atherosclerosis. Its use in breaking down saturated facts in cholesterol is becoming well accepted. Turmeric's effectiveness against cancer and liver disease is being studied as well.

Besides the common yellow powder for cooking uses, Turmeric is also available in Turmeric capsules and as an extract. Though it can be used by virtually all ages of people, it must not be over ingested as various side effects can occur. These include stomach upsets and even ulcers. The herb's possible interaction with other herbs or drugs is also a problems; and amounts exceeding recommended doses should not be taken. It should not be taken by people suffering from gall stones or partial bile passage blockage without the approval of a qualified herbal medicine practitioner. Tumeric may also interact with drugs such as resprine; used to treat high blood pressure.

Available Turmeric Related Products in the US:

Turmeric Formula