Botanical Overview
Curcuma longa belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. The plant is primarily known by its common names such as Turmeric, Indian saffron, and Haridra. The medicinal part used is the rhizome, native to tropical Asia, particularly India and Southeast Asia.
Energetics
Curcuma longa is considered warming and drying in nature. It possesses bitter, pungent, and astringent tastes with ascending and outward directionality. It acts primarily as a tonifying herb influencing the qi and blood.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Carminative
- Cholagogue
- Hepatoprotective
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Inflammation
- Indigestion
- Skin infections
- Joint pain
- Dyspepsia
- Flatulence
Syndromes
- Osteoarthritis
- Hepatitis
- Dyspeptic complaints
- Upper respiratory infections
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
- Stagnation of qi
- Blood stasis
- Abdominal pain
- Cold in abdomen
Syndromes
- Qi and blood stagnation
- Wind-cold-damp bi syndrome
Ayurveda
- Skin disorders
- Excess kapha and vata dosha
- Digestive disturbances
- Jaundice
Syndromes
- Rakta dushti (blood impurities)
- Kamala (jaundice)
- Vishama agni (irregular digestion)
Unani
- Biliousness
- Indigestion
- Liver disorders
- Rheumatism
Syndromes
- Safra imbalance
- Mastikhat (inflammation)
Constituents & Mechanisms
The rhizome contains biologically active phytochemicals including curcuminoids (notably curcumin), essential and volatile oils such as tumerones, which contribute to its medicinal efficacy.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powder: 1-3 grams daily
- Tincture 1:5, 40% ethanol: 2-5 mL, 1-3 times daily
- Decoction: 2-4 grams, 1-2 times daily
- Standardized extract (curcuminoids 95%): 500-1000 mg daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated at customary doses. High doses may cause gastrointestinal upset. Contraindicated in gallbladder obstruction and biliary colic. Use cautiously during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Potential interactions with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications warrant careful monitoring.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Sun
Elemental ruler: Fire
Selected References
- Community herbal monograph on Curcuma longa L., rhizome – European Medicines Agency (2015)
- Curcuma longa (Turmeric) – Plant For A Future Database (2023)
- Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health – Hewlings & Kalman (2017)
- Curcuma longa – Haridra – Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (2008)
- Medical Herbalism – David Hoffmann (2003)
- A Modern Herbal – Maud Grieve (1931)
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica – Bensky, Clavey & Stoger (2004)