Turmeric ~ Curcuma longa

 Turmeric

Latin name: Curcuma longa

Family: Zingiberaceae

Part used: rhizome

Habitat: native to S. Asia; cultivated widely in the tropics

Main constituents: curcuminoids, volatile oil

Energetics: bitter, pungent, aromatic, cooling, stimulating

Main herbal actions: antihepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, cholagogue, choleretic, carminative

Minor herbal actions: cyclooxygenase inhibiting, antifertility, topical antibacterial and antifungal, hypotensive, anti-atherosclerotic, anticancer

Main medicinal uses: jaundice, gallstones, hemorrhage, bruises, colic, arthritis, sprains, wounds

Minor medicinal uses: toothache, flatulence, prevents cataracts

Preparations: infusion: 1 tsp/cup water; 1:0.85 tincture: 10-40 gtt qd-qid, raw powder: up to 30 grams qd (Khalsa)

Contraindications: pregnancy, bile duct obstruction, may temporarily inhibit fertility

Toxicity: unknown

Sources: Sharol Tilgner, N.D.: Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth; Wren, R.C. Potter’s New Encyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations

Turmeric Module 3 ~ notes page 32

Astringent herbs include:

• Cranesbill Root
• Turmeric Root
• Black walnut bark
• White oak bark