Turmeric Root, Cut & Sifted (Curcuma longa) – Dried Herb, Organic

Turmeric is Indiginous to India and other Asian countries, now cultivated in many tropical areas throughout the world. The rhizome is mildly pungent and slightly bitter. Turmeric is a member of the Ginger family called Zingiberaceae. Sometimes called Yellow Ginger as it does resemble Ginger. Turmeric is a perennial herb and grows to about one meter. It has large lance shaped leaves and spikes of flowers and fleshy roots and is sometimes called Indian Saffron.

The use of Turmeric dates back nearly 4000 years to the Vedic culture in India where is was used in cooking spice as well as having some religious aspects. In Sanskrit medical writings and Ayurvedic systems that date back to 250 BC had recommended an ointment containing Turmeric to combat food poisoning.

Turmeric has deep significance in Hindu and Buddhist culture. It symbolizes fertility and prosperity as well as purity and spiritual connection with the earth. The deep yellow has significant association with the sun and the sacral chakra.

Turmeric is a very important herb in Ayurvedic medicine as well as Traditional Chinese medicine. In Ayurvedic medicine, Turmeric is a common treatment for various respiratory conditions like asthma and allergy as well as liver disorders, rheumatism, wounds and sinus issues. Throughout Asia, Turmeric is traditionally used for both prevention and therapy of many diseases. Modern studies reveal that Turmeric is a potent antioxidant, anti- inflammatory and antimicrobial. Turmeric used in cooking and home remedies has significant antioxidant abilities.

Properties:

The energetics of Turmeric is spicy, warm and dry. The taste is pungent and slightly bitter. In Traditional Chinese medicine it has an affinity for the lungs and large intestine and for good liver function and the energy is considered yang.

Curcumin is a highly potent constituent of Turmeric but far from being the only one. Turmeric has an affinity for the skin, the brain, the joints, the liver and the stomach and the immune system.

Works in synergy with black pepper. Can be used as a dye for cloth or wool.

See Gaia Garden “Turmeric Power” Tea.

How to use:

Add 1 teaspoon of Turmeric root and one pinch of Black pepper corns to one cup of water and simmer for 10 to 15 min. Sip several times per day. For a more flavourful tea add honey, fresh squeezed lemon juice and milk to taste.

Cautions & contraindications:

Avoid using if there is obstruction of bile passages or in the case of gallstones. Should be avoided by people who suffer from stomach ulcers or hyperacidity.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.