Some Herb Basics: Most herbs work better on an empty stomach. A few exceptions are garlic, goldenseal and cayenne due to stomach upset. Herbs work in a cumulative fashion meaning they are not a “one dose wonder.” They need to build up in the system a little, usually within 2-3 doses, before any real affect can be noticed. Fresh herbs always work better than old herbs and science is always proving the fact that a whole herb usually is more effective than one isolated compound of that herb.
Curcumin is now incredibly popular since scientific research has been conducted within the last couple of years revealing all the health benefits of this turmeric compound.
Medicinal Properties: The most recent discovery of the medicinal qualities in turmeric have been due to studies conducted on curcumin and its possible anti-tumor properties. Experiments found that this common spice reduced the number of tumors in mice as well as the mutation of tumors. Curcumin is a powerful anti-oxident and anti-inflammatory, which is why it is considered an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory). Specifically used for uterine tumors, liver disease, jaundice and circulation problems.
Most recently it is discovered that turmeric is very effective against colic and stomach problems as well.
How to Use: Sprinkle on foods for a slightly mustard flavor. Drink a mild tea of, or use capsules or tablets. Turmeric has also been used as a yellow dye. Recent studies claim turmeric should be used with fresh-ground black pepper to be utilized by the body effectively.
Parts Used: Rhizome (root). Due to its sudden popularity, you can buy fresh turmeric root in most health food stores now.
How to use herbs for maximum benefit. Short and sweet descriptions and uses written by our on-staff Nutritional Herbalist. Always remember that herbs should be treated as a medicine. Almost all of our modern-day medicines are derived from compounds found in herbs and plants. If you have not used a particular herb before, try a half dose at first to make sure you do not have an unfavorable reaction to it.