TURMERIC is native to India and southern Asia, and is cultivated throughout southern and eastern Asia; we are used to seeing this yellow spice in a variety of dishes familiar to lovers of Indian food.

Turmeric has a long history of use in India and China and is well known for its therapeutic properties.

Here in the west there was little research until the 1970s, when trials using turmeric extracts showed it helped lower cholesterol levels, since then research continued as more clinical trials proved beneficial for digestive and liver problems, inhibition of blood clotting, and relieved inflammatory conditions.

The bright yellow pigment contains the active compound curcumin, which is found in the roots of certain tropical plants like turmeric, and has powerful anti-inflammatory actions.

Just like the non steroidal anti inflammatory medications, it blocks the formation of the pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, and leukotrienes (also inflammatory) but does not have the side effects on the stomach that the anti-inflammatory would. as an anti-inflammatory effect on the stomach.

Curcumin is highly recommended in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis as well as post operative inflammation.

It is also recommened to help with pseudo gout which is an inflammatory condition that can occur within the joints following radiotherapy treatment for cancer, an effective dose is 500mgs two to three times a day.

Curcumin orcan also be used as a poultice for inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, this herb will not treat any pain, as its action is to reduce and prevent further inflammation from occurring which is what causes the discomfort in the first place.

Curcumin and other curcuminoids have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and are being entered into phase one clinical trials by the National Cancer Institute to investigate their cancer preventing properties.

Turmeric’s Latin name is curcuma longa, and is a traditional remedy used for treating jaundice in both Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal medicine.

It is known to improve the action of the liver by increasing bile production and flow, as well as thinning the blood, so now with the blood thinning properties as well as cholesterol reducing effects, it is being used in the preventive treatment of strokes and heart attacks.

It is also an ancient herb used in the treatment of digestive problems such as gastritis and acidity, helping to increase mucus production and protect the stomach, this herb also alleviates nausea.