Turmeric is a plant well known for its medicinal and culinary use, it is also used in perfumery and textiles.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a plant in the Zingiberaceae family, the same family as ginger. Originating in India and Southeast Asia, this plant is often confused with Crocus sativus, which is also known as turmeric or turmeric.

Turmeric is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine (medicine developed in India) about six thousand years ago. It is indicated for problems such as colds, sinus infections, bacterial infections, changes in the liver, diabetes, injuries, anorexia and rheumatism.

Currently, it is known that turmeric has a number of important pharmacological properties. Among them, the following stand out:

🌱antioxidant;

🌱anti-inflammatory;

🌱antibacterial;

🌱antidiarrheal;

🌱anti-scorbutic;

🌱antispasmodic;

🌱antifungal;

🌱antiparasitic;

🌱antitumor;

🌱antiviral;

🌱diuretic;

🌱hepatoprotective;

🌱neuroprotective;

🌱reducing cholesterol levels;

🌱sedative.

Some studies also suggest that turmeric has neuroprotective effects in the treatment of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, in addition to helping to combat some types of cancer. However, research is still being carried out to confirm these effects and to analyze the appropriate doses.

Turmeric can be used in different ways, and can be used to treat various health problems.

Some ways of using this plant are: decoction (boiling) of the rhizome, infusion, tincture (type of preparation in which alcohol and a certain medicinal plant are used), micronized powder, dry extract, standardized extract and fluid extract. The recommended form of use will depend on each treatment.

We must not forget that turmeric is used as a condiment and can be used, for example, in sauces, red and white meat, rice and broths. The flavor of turmeric is slightly spicy.

Turmeric is a product that has low toxicity, causing no damage when used in doses up to 10 g / day. Although it does not cause great damage, the use of turmeric has some contraindications.

People who have gastric ulcers or who have a history of the problem should not make prolonged use of turmeric. In addition, people who have sensitivity or allergy to curcumin, obstruction of the bile ducts, bleeding disorders or who use drugs that alter the clotting process should not use turmeric.

As it can also induce abortion, turmeric should not be used by pregnant women. Its use is also not suitable for nursing mothers and children.