Turmeric
botanical name: Curcuma longa
The yellow-coloured, earthy-tasting spice that is best known for its potent antioxidant actions and anti-inflammatory properties.
Key Features:
- relief of joint & muscle pain
- improving gut health
- anti-inflammation
What does it do?
Anti-inflammatory: it may help to reduce inflammation around the body, including arthritic conditions, sore muscles and inflammatory skin problems. Topically, it can help to reduce pain however it is staining, so use carefully.
​
Circulation: as a warming, drying herb, turmeric has circulatory stimulating effects similar to ginger. If symptoms are worsened by the cold, then it can help treat these by increasing blood flow and muscle relaxation.
​
Gut health: due to its anti-inflammatory actions, turmeric has benefits on the digestive system (where most chronic inflammations originate). It works well as a prebiotic, where it can help to restore a healthy gut microbiome.
​
Liver: turmeric increases bile output and helps to dissolve and prevent gallstones - this stimulating effect on the liver helps to clear systemic toxaemia associated with eczema, psoriasis and acne.
​
Menstrual problems: it can help to relieve such problems, particularly where symptoms are relieved by hot water bottles such as congestive pelvic inflammatory conditions and promoting the flow of menses.
Active Constituents
Yellow pigments including curcumin,
volatile oils
Parts Used
Rhizome / root
​
​
Herbal Actions
Warming
Anti-inflammatory
Antioxidant
Antimicrobial
Hepatic
Applications
Teas,
Capsules,
Tinctures,
Salves,
Oils
Precautions
Avoid excess quantities during pregnancy and lactation.