Herb Profile: Turmeric
Turmeric works on all tissues of the body to alleviate inflammation and skin conditions as well as promote health of the digestive, circulatory, and respiratory systems and the liver.Turmeric milk or lattes are popular beverages now available at many cafés, and with good reason. They taste delicious and deliver a dose of the medicinal herb that treats and prevents a host of maladies and discomforts. Turmeric is a heating herb with astringent and pungent tastes, making it great for removing Kapha from the system. It is safe for those with Pitta and Vata predominant constitutions to take in moderation, though, in excess, it will aggravate Pitta and Vata. Cautions for taking turmeric are pregnancy and bile duct obstruction. If neither of these apply, enjoy the health benefits of turmeric by incorporating it into food and drinks on a regular basis. Use 1 tsp per cup of water or milk to make an infusion or tea. Doctors, herbalists, and reference books may recommend a higher dose in capsule form for treating specific conditions.
Turmeric is known to provide relief from a multitude of symptoms such as reliving gas, healing wounds, purifying blood, and preventing cataracts. It has qualities or actions that include anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-cancer, which we can extrapolate to mean that the herb has the ability to recognize what is foreign and encourage the body to remove the foreign substance while encouraging healing and regeneration of healthy tissue. An example of this is highlighted in The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs, Khalsa, Tierra, 2008. A patient had suffered for decades from eczema. After trying virtually every other treatment she began taking turmeric and adjusted her diet. Her symptoms nearly disappeared after 6 weeks, and she continued to be free from eczema for over 15 years.
Great for healing skin – apply topically to cuts to stop bleeding; taken internally it improves healing and reduces scarring by stabilizing collagen
Turmeric for heart health – it is in the same family as ginger and similarly works on the cardiovascular system to lower fats in the blood, inhibit plaque on the arteries, and reduce blood cholesterol
Treat sore throat and cough – use as a gargle
Get rid of excess gas with turmeric – it relieves flatulence
As a seasoning, add it to soups, lentils, pasta dishes, potatoes, oatmeal, salad dressing, or really just about any dish. Start with start with ¼ teaspoon per serving and adjust the flavor as necessary, noticing the effects. Use a smaller amount when mixing it with other warming spices such as garlic, cinnamon, or chilis.
The bright yellow pigment in turmeric will stain skin and clothing.
Source: Khalsa, Karta Purkh Singh and Michael Tierra. The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs. Twin Lakes: Lotus Press, 2008.
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical care. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Herbs are intended to support general well being. If conditions persist, visit your doctor.