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Turmeric Root Powder Organic |
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Turmeric Root Powder Organic
TURMERIC ROOT POWDER - Organic
(Curcuma longa)
History and Folklore
A member of the Ginger family, Turmeric is a well familiar spice of Asian cuisine. It is best known for its bright yellow colour, which gives curry powder its characteristic appearance. Turmeric has a long history of use, not just as a spice, but also as a healing agent and as a magical herb. When Europeans were first introduced to it they often falsely identified it as Saffron. However, while it serves perfectly as a dye for all sorts of substances, its properties and flavour do no not compare to those of Saffron. In India Turmeric is indeed widely used as dye, not just for ritual foods to be offered to the Gods, but also for textiles (Buddhist robes are traditionally dyed with Turmeric). Carbonate of soda helps to fix the dye, though it is not very permanent. Occasionally it is also used cosmetically as make-up at weddings and other festive events. The food industry employs it as a colorant for cheeses, sausage and confectionary.
Medicinal Uses:
Turmeric is an excellent liver herb, as its signature indicates: It is used for jaundice and to stimulate gallbladder activity. It is a great digestive aid for breaking down fatty foods. Clinical trials have shown it to successfully reduce cholesterol levels. Turmeric has germicidal properties and studies have shown that it can effectively combat H. pylori, which is now found to be the major culprit in causing gastric ulcers.(Munzenmaier 1997 ).
In Ayurvedic medicine Turmeric would be considered a 'pitta substance' since it works on the digestive principle, aiding metabolic processes and the absorption of nutrients. It stimulates the digestive fire. Some traditional healers use it in the treatment of cough, or cooked with milk, for asthma.
Applied externally in combination with Neem leaves it is considered effective against ringworm and scabies. Traditionally it has also been employed as a treatment for eczema, leprosy and purulent inflammation of the eyes. In Chinese medicine it is indicated for shoulder pain, menstrual cramping, colic and rheumatoid arthritis. Recent studies have also found Turmeric effective in inhibiting certain types of cancers. It has been administered both internally and applied externally to aid the healing of cancer lesions and scars. It is also effective in reducing the odour of cancer.
Magical Uses:
For magical purposes Turmeric is used to increase fertility in humans and animals. It is also sometimes worn as a magical charm for protection and for good health.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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