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CURCUMA LONGA

TURMERIC Haridra, Haldi

Turmeric holds a place of honor in Ayurvedic medicine. It is a symbol of prosperity, and was believed to be a cleanser for all the systems in the body. Turmeric was prescribed as a digestive aid, a treatment for fever, infections, dysentery, arthritis, jaundice, and it has been used as a basic ingredient in curries for thousands of years.

PROPERTIES

Antiseptic, warming, pungent, bitter, and astringent. Turmeric acts as a stimulant, an alterative, and carminative, with vulnerary, antibacterial properties. Turmeric rhizomes are ground to make the familiar yellow powder.

Part of Plant Used The roots.

Conditions Treated Indigestion, poor circulation, cough, amenorrhea, pharyngitis, skin disorders, diabetes, arthritis, anemia, wounds, bruises, and all immune system deficiencies. Because of its energizing effect on the immune system, turmeric is being studied for use in the treatment of HIV and AIDS.

Form Taken As a massage oil, in facial creams and lotions, in compresses, or as a food or spice.

Used with Other Herbs? Ginger, musk, wild sunflower.

HOW TO USE

 Reduces kapha and vátha, and increases pitta.

 Reduces fat, purifies blood, and aids circulation.

 It benefits digestion, and can help rid the body of intestinal parasites.

CAUTION

 Do not use in cases of hepatitis, extremely high pitta, or pregnancy.

 Turmeric is said to reduce fertility, and would not be recommended for someone trying to conceive.