Turmeric

Curcuma longa

Turmeric root has been celebrated as a cooking spice, dye, and medicinal herb for over 3,000 years. Traditionally used to support the respiratory system, we love turmeric in particularly for everyday physical discomfort and digestive support.*

HERBAL BENEFITS

Common Name Turmeric, Curcuma, Indian Saffron

Family Name Zingiberaceae

Parts Used Rhizome

Herbal Actions Carminative, Hepatic, Cholagogue

Health Benefits Digestion, Joint Health

More Turmeric info

At the root of culture and health for centuries.

The turmeric rhizome, or root, is where the active constituents of the plant are found. The most common and well-studied constituents in turmeric are its curcuminoids, mainly turmeric curcumin, found at levels of around 3-5% in the rhizome and contributing to both its vibrant orange-yellow color. Thus, turmeric supports a healthy response to inflammation associated with an active lifestyle.*

A common household spice, turmeric powder is one of the primary ingredients in curry powder. Warming, pungent spices like turmeric not only enhance the flavor food, but are also often used because they commonly contain active constituents which benefit digestion. Turmeric root contains around 3-7% volatile oil, giving the root a carminative action on the digestive system. Carminative herbs are especially useful at dispersing gas in the lower gastrointestinal tract. According to the European Medicines Agency, turmeric is good for relieving feelings of fullness, slow digestion and flatulence.*

Turmeric root can be taken as a tea, capsule, powdered spice, or eaten fresh. Studies show that sprinkling a little pepper to your turmeric powder can aid in the absorption of the root’s curcuminoids. Looking to add a warming, spicy and herbaceous note to a topical aromatic blend? Try adding a little turmeric essential oil, but be careful to not add too much as this bright orange essential oil can stain the skin.

Turmeric is one of those special spices that have been a main staple throughout human history. Its recorded use as food and medicine has spanned over 4,500 years. Around 500 BCE, turmeric emerged as an important part of Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional system of medicine used in the Indian subcontinent. Ayurvedic literature contains over 100 different terms for turmeric, including jayanti, meaning one who is victorious over diseases, and matrimanika, meaning as beautiful as moonlight.

In Indian culture, the importance of turmeric goes far beyond medicine. The Hindu religion sees turmeric as auspicious and sacred. There is a wedding day tradition in which a string, dyed yellow with turmeric paste, is tied around the bride’s neck by her groom. This necklace, known as a mangala sutra, indicates that the woman is married and capable of running a household.

The vibrant yellow natural coloring of turmeric has also been used to dye clothing and thread for centuries; the saffron-hued Buddhist robes are dyed with turmeric.

Products that contain Turmeric

Popular

Turmeric & Ginger with Meadowsweet Tea

Joint Support and Digestion*

Quick Buy Learn More

Ginger Aid® Tea

Promotes Healthy Digestion and Relieves Nausea*

Quick Buy Learn More

Additional Information

Important Precautions:

Consult a healthcare practitioner before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or of you have gallstones, a bile duct obstruction, stomach ulcers or excess stomach acid.

Legal Disclaimer:

The information and other content in this article are designed to provide a general overview of the botany, cultural history, and traditional uses of this herb. It is not intended and should not be construed as health advice. Every person is unique and you should consult with your health care provider before using any herbal product or supplement.

Become an Herb Nerd & Get 10% Off!

Herbal tidbits, DIY plant projects, exclusive discounts, and recipes to follow the seasons delivered straight to your inbox.

More Turmeric info

Products that contain Turmeric

Turmeric & Ginger with Meadowsweet Tea

Ginger Aid® Tea

Additional Information

Become an Herb Nerd & Get 10% Off!

Join our communi-tea

My Cart

You May Also Like

Throat Coat® Lemon Ginger Echinacea Lozenges