Scientific name: Curcuma domestica Valet. Curcuma longa L
Description:
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a rhizomatous herbaceous plant that reaches the height of 1 to 1.5 m. This perennial plant belongs to the ginger family and the rootstock is round to cylindrical. When broken it is bright yellow inside and the corms are succulent and has a reddish yellow interior.
Medicinal Benefits:
Turmeric is also known as the Indian Saffron. Its active ingredient is curcumin which has an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-coagulant, antiviral and antifungal actions.
Its tumor suppressing properties as well as its antioxidant capacity provides a neutralizing effect againsts free radicals in the body and protects the cell membranes from damage.
Turmeric helps to prevent atherosclerosis by reducing the number of platelets sticking together and forming blood clots. Curcumin is also proven to inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, which causes gastric ulcers.
The dosage level varies according to age and illness but the recommended level is usually between 400 – 600 mg daily.
Indication and Direction:
1. Wound antiseptic
Wash the turmeric thoroughly to remove dirt. Crush the fresh rhizome and apply over the wound to cleanse and stimulate recovery.
2. Irregular menstruation, stomach pains
Wash the turmeric thoroughly to remove dirt. Cut into thin slices. Put in a steamer. Once done, let it dry under the sun before storing.
Use the dried rootstock as a tea by boiling them.
Counterindication: Should not be taken by pregnant women
THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED & TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.