Turmeric in herbal medicine

Turmeric is found only under cultivation. Its original home is believed to be either the South or Southeast Asian region.

Turmeric is used an herbal medicine for rheumatoid arthritis, chronic anterior uveitis, conjunctivitis, skin cancer small pox, chicken pox, wound healing, urinary tract infections and liver ailments.

Turmeric

It is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and therefore protects against cancer. Turmeric is also used for digestive disorders; to reduce flatus, jaundice, menstrual difficulties and colic; for abdominal pain and distension.

Turmeric rhizome is used externally in China and Cambodia for cutaneous afflictions and internally against colic, amenorrhoea, and congestions. In Cambodia, the leaves are considered antipyretic.

In Japan, China and Papua New Guinea, the root is used as a stimulant. Other names for turmeric include curcuma, Indian saffron, Indian valerian, jiang huang, radix, red valerian and turmeric.
Turmeric in herbal medicine