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What Is Tumeric Used For?

While scientists are still researching the benefits of turmeric, preliminary laboratory tests on animals suggest some of the claims may be accurate. Clinical trials are now underway to further evaluate a chemical in turmeric called curcumin for its anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is considered safe for most people. Those with gallbladder disease are cautioned against it, however, as it can worsen their condition.

  1. Identification

    • Turmeric is an herb. It grows as a shrub approximately 5 to 6 feet tall and is related to ginger. It has dull yellow trumpet like flowers. Turmeric is sometimes called Indian saffron as it is predominantly grown in India. Other places that grow the herb include much of Southeast Asia and tropical areas of Africa.

    Traditional Uses

    • Chinese and Indian medicine used turmeric to aid in digestion, heal skin wounds and diseases, improve liver function, relieve arthritis pain and even regulate menstruation.

    Today's Uses

    • Today, turmeric is widely sold and used to control heartburn, stomach ulcers and gallstones. This is based, in part, on German double-blind studies that showed it was effective in easing digestive troubles. Unfortunately, newer studies suggest that it not only isn't effective on stomach ulcers but can make them worse. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, turmeric may also help keep ulcerated colitis in remission.

    More Research Needed

    • More research is needed to understand its effect on different forms of cancer. Early studies are promising but so far a greater understanding of why and to what extent it works on cancers such as prostate, breast, skin and colon is needed. More research is also needed on turmeric's cholesterol lowering properties. So far only animal tests have been conducted. There is also a possible use for reducing inflammation in the eyes, but so far that research is limited to a study of 32 people (see Resources). It is still used to treat arthritis and menstrual pain by reducing inflammation. When mashed into a paste, it is used to reduce eczema irritation and speed wound healing. More study is needed on these claims as well.

    Other Uses

    • Turmeric is also used in cheese, mustard and as a one of the ingredients for Indian curry. It is also a common fabric dye, particularly in Africa.

    Which Part of the Plant is Used?

    • The rhizome of the turmeric plant is ground up and dried. It is then turned into a powder to put into teas, tinctures, pastes and oils.

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