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Turmeric Root is one of the most widely used herbs for joint support in India, where it is commonly combined with ginger.

Although best known as a spice that gives a distinctive flavor and yellow color to curry powder and mustard, turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a member of the ginger family and has long been used for healing.

Studies continue finding more benefits...

Studies have shown that turmeric has strong antioxidant activity. It is more potent than either vitamin C or vitamin E. In the body these important disease-fighting substances mop up unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals that can otherwise damage cells and cause diseases such as cancer.

One component, dimethylbenzyl alcohol, normalizes cholesterol in the blood, while curcumin removes accumulation of cholesterol in the liver. Turmeric normalizes arterial health.

Turmeric is also called for when indigestion, gas, and eliminatory issues imbalance the body.

Teas are not as potent as formulations standardized to a curcumin concentration (and they don't always appeal because of the herb's distinctive taste). To make a tea, pour 1 cup (8 ounces) of boiling water over 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of powdered turmeric, let steep covered for 5 minutes, then strain, if necessary. Drink two or three cups daily, as desired.

Formulations to take internally include capsules, fresh juice, boiled tea made from powder, and tinctures. Topical formulations include creams, lotions, pastes, and ointments.

Turmeric Extract by Vitabase has a long history of usage with herbalists. May help with some digestive disorders, osteoarthritis, liver disease, bacterial infections and more. 95 percent curcuminoids, 475 mg per capsule. Standardized Turmeric by Nature's Way has shown the ability to stimulate and increase the activity of the immune system. Turmeric also has anti-fungal properties. Turmeric extract is standardized to 95 percent curcuminoids, a potent antioxidant.

One of the components of Turmeric is curcumin, a type of phytochemical known as a polyphenol. Research findings suggest that phytochemicals, which are the chemicals found in plants, appear to help prevent disease. As the bioactive component of turmeric, curcumin is readily absorbed for use by the body.

The most recent discovery-in-progress is potential help for Alzheimers and Dementia. From BBC:

Dr Susanne Sorensen, of the Alzheimer's Society, said: "Indian communities that regularly eat curcumin have a surprisingly low incidence of Alzheimer's disease but we don't yet know why. Alzheimer's Society is keen to explore the potential benefits of curcumin in protecting the brain and we are conducting our own research into this area. A cheap, accessible and safe treatment could transform the quality of life of thousands of people with the condition."

Curry Powder: The flurry around curry centers on its primary ingredient - turmeric, which contains curcumin, a powerful polyphenol with antioxidant properties. Curcumin lends the spice its distinctive flavor and vivid yellow color.

In a study by Columbia University researchers, curcumin reduced inflammation and lessened the chances that obese mice would develop type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, in the mice that did get the disease, curcumin still lessened insulin resistance, improved blood sugar levels, decreased body fat and increased muscle mass.

More exciting studies target heart disease and cancer. Canadian scientists gave curcumin to mice with enlarged hearts. Not only did it lower the incidence of heart failure (a common outcome of an enlarged heart) but it reversed the condition, restoring heart function. Curcumin also has the ability to stop tumor growth and promote tumor cell breakdown, particularly in colorectal cancer cells.

Earlier research suggests curcumin may help prevent rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohon's disease. It's extract blocks bone breakdown, reducing the risk for osteoporosis. Now, scientists are loking at curcumin and Alzheimer's disease. In India - where people eat 2 to 4 grams (about 1 teaspoon) of turmeric daily - Alzheimer rates are one-quarter what they are in the U.S. Currently 10 studies are underway in humans. In the meantim, cotton up to curry in cooking. Check out our quick (and printable) 7 Ways to WOW Your Palate.

Don't take turmeric if you have a bile duct blockage or a blood-clotting disorder, or if you have a history of stomach ulcers; it may negatively affect these conditions. If you have gallstones or any gallbladder problems, you probably should not use turmeric supplements. This caution stems in part from a small 1999 study (of 12 people) which found that curcumin in low doses stimulated contractions of the gallbladder. This means that turmeric could potentially harm a person with gallbladder problems.

See also: Belly Bytes: Turmeric

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