| Many
people are familiar with turmeric as a traditional Middle-Eastern spice,
but few know of its medicinal virtues. Turmeric, otherwise known as
Circuma longa, is a member of the ginger family, Zingaberaceae. The Latin
name is derived from the Persian word, "kirkum," which means
"saffron," in reference to the rhizome's vibrant yellow-orange
color. It is indigenous to Southeast Asia, but has long been used and
cultivated throughout India.
Turmeric
is highly valuable for the influence it exerts on the digestive system and
the liver. In both Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is
considered a digestive bitter and a carminative. It can be incorporated
into foods, including rice and bean dishes, to improve digestion and
reduce gas and bloating. It is a cholagogue, stimulating bile production
in the liver and encouraging excretion of bile via the gallbladder. This
improves the body's ability to digest fats.
Turmeric
is recommended for chronic digestive weakness and/or congestion. It can be
taken as a single extract or in the form of digestive bitters, which
combine turmeric with other bitter and carminative herbs. Gaia's
"Sweetish Bitters" is a tasty combination, and Herb Pharm's
single extract of turmeric is delicious. Take either of these twenty
minutes before meals, especially meals that are high in protein and/or
fat. It is beneficial for people who feel tired after consuming meals or
who experience gas and bloating.
Turmeric
is anti-inflammatory to the mucous membranes, which coat the throat,
lungs, stomach and intestines. Turmeric decreases congestion and
inflammation from stagnant mucous membranes. People with the following
conditions could benefit from regular use of turmeric: IBS (Irritable
Bowel Syndrome), colitis, Crohn's disease, diarrhea, and post-giardia or
post salmonella conditions. It can also reduce the itching and
inflammation that accompanies hemorrhoids and anal fissures. This herb
would be useful to follow up antibiotic treatments, in addition to
acidophilus and garlic. It helps to improve the intestinal flora and acts
as an anti-bacterial.
Another
wonderful aspect of turmeric is its beneficial influence on the liver.
Spring (and late winter) is an important time to consume herbs and foods
that strengthen the liver, because spring is the season which rules the
liver and gallbladder in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Turmeric shares
similar liver protectant compounds that milk thistle and artichoke leaves
contain. It is said to shrink engorged hepatic ducts, so it can be useful
to treat liver conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and jaundice.
Turmeric can also benefit skin conditions including: eczema, psoriasis and
acne, for it is a potent detoxifier.
Turmeric
is an antispasmodic to smooth muscles so it reduces digestive and
menstrual cramping. For women who experience monthly menstrual cramps, try
consuming turmeric extract or bitters twice daily for two weeks prior to
expected menstruation. It should reduce the severity of cramps, if not
alleviating them completely. Of course, diet and lifestyle have a profound
influence on the menstrual cycle, but turmeric is a great addition.
Another
use of turmeric is for the treatment of skin cancer or pre cancerous skin
conditions. Both topical and internal use are encouraged. Of course it
will stain the skin a lovely yellow color (and clothing too for that
matter.) One final use of turmeric is as a dye. One can dye wool, yarn,
clothing, and even Easter eggs with this root.
According
to Dr. Vasant Lad, "Turmeric gives the energy of the Divine Mother
and grants prosperity. It is effective for cleansing the chakras, and
purifying the channels of the subtle body."
Try adding
turmeric to your oatmeal, grains and beans, or take digestive bitters.
Whatever way that turmeric is consumed it will benefit both the digestive
system and the liver.
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Turmeric
Powder and root
Turmeric
One variety in bloom
Turmeric
Cultivation
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