Turmeric
Ulmas rubra

Family: Zingiberaceae
Which probiotic is it in?: Turmeric is a key herb in Sustain and Revive
Habit and cultivation: Native to India and South-East Asia, but now grown in many countries of the world although India continues to account for much of the world’s production. Only known as a domesticated plant and does not grow in the wild.
Actions (known for): Anti-inflammatory, anti-platelet, cholagogue, anti-microbial, carminative, hypolipidaemic, hepatoprotective and anti-cancer.
History of Turmeric
Parts used from the Turmeric
Tubers / dried rhizome.
Constituents (bio available chemicals):
Bornel (essential oil), cineole (essential oil), curcumin (coumarin), diarylheptanoids (yellow pigments), methoxylted curcumins, sabinene, sesquiterpene ketones and zingiberene.
Nutritional constituents:
Vitamin: C. Minerals: calcium, iron, potassium and zinc.
Indications:
Arthritis, asthma, cancer, prevention of – cardiovascular disease, digestive weakness, eczema, liver insufficiency, psoriasis. Topically : analgesic, ringworm, bruising and infected wounds.
Dosage:
Liquid extract (1:1): 40-80ml per week. Absorption improves with lecithin. Should be taken on an empty stomach 20 mins before meals or between meals. Standardised powder (curcumin): 400-600mg 3 x daily.
British Herbal Pharmacopoeia
Dyspeptic complaints. Chronic cholecystitis.
Cautions for therapeutic doses
Avoid in women wishing to conceive, and in patients suffering early hair loss. Avoid excessive sunbathing. Contra-indicated when taking anti-coagulant or anti-platelet drugs.