Latin (botanical) name: Curcuma Longa

Common names: Turmeric Root, Indian Saffron, Indian Valerian, Jiang Huang, Radix, Red Valerian, Curcuma, Curcuma Rotunda, Amomum Curcuma

Plant Description: A perennial plant, Tumeric has oblong, palmate roots or tubers. These are a deep orange inside. The leaves of the root are about 2 feet long, smooth, lanceolate, and tapering at the end. The flowers, three or five together surrounded by bracteolae, are a dull yellow. The tubers are yellowish externally, but internally, deep orange or reddish brown, marked with shining points, dense, solid, granular fracture, which forms a light yellow powder. This powder has a fragrant odor and a bitter, acrid taste.

Medicinal Properties & Uses:

Tumeric, a powerful anti-inflammatory, is used for all auto-immune disorders, including lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, asthma, and arthritis. It is a liver cooler that arrests cirrhosis and stops necrosis of the liver. As such, it is an excellent treatment for alcoholics, and those with elevated liver enzymes, including Hepatitis C. As it increases bile, Tumeric helps in fat digestion. Additionally, it is an effective treatment where cortico-steroid drug use is indicated such as colitis, bursitis, and Crohn's Disease.

Dosage: 20-40 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily or as needed.

Cautions & Interactions: Do not take during pregnancy. Keep out of reach of children.

Efficacy Studies & Other Clinical Data:

* National Library of Medicine/PubMed - Turmeric and Cholesterol
* National Library of Medicine/PubMed - Turmeric and Dyspepsia

Helpful Links:

* American Cancer Society - Turmeric

Disclaimer (U.S. Only): These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease.