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Turmeric is a perennial plant belonging to the ginger family which can be found in several countries of South East Asia as well as all of the Caribbean islands. The root of the plant has a bulb like appearance which is usually dried and ground before use although there are some applications where it can be used while freshly dug from the ground. It is the root or bulb that is used for cooking as well as for medicinal applications. Indians, Chinese and West Indians have used this herb as much as for medicinal uses as they have for cooking. Turmeric is called Curcuma Longa in Latin, Haridra or the Yellow one in the Sanskrit language and Haldee in the Hindi language. It is also associated with Ayurvedic medicines in the Vedas or ancient lore of the Hindus and is an integral part of what is referred to as Aushadhi or herbal medicines.

Turmeric has been used by Ayurvedic healers for centuries and is not only native to India but has also travelled to the Caribbean and has been present there for at least the last one hundred and sixty four years. Indians who migrated from India to these islands took the plants and the medicinal secrets with them and have successfully applied these secrets for several generations. One of the most common remedies for sprains and swelling of the joints is to apply a paste comprised of boiled ground turmeric with salt and a small amount of lime juice. Linseed meal added to this mixture forms what is called a Poultice and helps to bring splinters in a wound closer to the top of the skin so as to remove it easily. Milk boiled with turmeric, sugar and a mixture of pungent spices are normally given to women who have just experienced child birth. This potion has unique cleansing properties which promotes healing and the restoration of good health.

Additionally, turmeric has also been used for treating indigestion, inflammation, gallstones and menstruation problems and although it has been used for the treatment of cuts and bruises, there are claims that there is no scientific evidence to support it. However, the lack of such scientific evidence has not been a deterrent in the continued use and application of turmeric as a treatment for these common ailments. Researchers have decided to conduct tests to determine the medicinal significance of turmeric and have discovered some astounding facts.

Curcumin is the yellow pigment of turmeric and it is believed to have the most bioactive properties of the herb. Curcumin is now accepted to be supportive in the treatment of liver and gallbladder disorders and is known to be a blocker in the progression of multiple sclerosis. Additionally, its antioxidant properties are now known to reduce cholesterol levels and promote good colon health. Its neuroprotective capabilities also help in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. As a matter of fact some new studies have shown that Curcumin inhibits melanoma cell growth and kills tumor cells. The study shows that three cell lines were treated with Curcumin at different dosages for varied periods of time and the results indicated decreased cell viability in all three cell lines.

As Western researchers continues with research on this wonder herb to determine how much it can aid in the fight against cancer and other diseases, it would be safe to say that turmeric has stood the test of time. It remains a splendid herb for its medicinal properties and a unique spice for those who relish in its splendid food coloring and pungent flavor.

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