Herb to Know: Turmeric Plant

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Many Indian brides anoint their skin with a sacred golden spice known as turmeric (Curcuma longa) the night before their wedding to capture a natural glow. This treasured spice is the herbaceous turmeric plant, well-known for its vibrant color and abundant healing powers.

Turmeric 
• Genus: Curcuma longa
• Also known as the golden spice or Indian saffron
• Zones 7 to 10

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Turmeric (Curcuma longa), a member of the gingerroot, or Zingiberaceae, family, thrives in hot, moist climates such as China, South Africa and India, and grows 3 to 5 feet high. It’s a perennial plant with orange-red blossoms resembling lilies.

Although its flowers are stunning, its rhizome, or underground stem, is what attracts the most attention. When dried and ground, its rhizome yields a sharp yellow powder known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and astringent properties. It is also used in an array of Indian dishes, curry being the most popular. It is not as pungent as ginger but emits a sweet aromatic note.

History and Lore

Turmeric has been in use for thousands of years. In its earliest reference, it was prescribed to charm away jaundice. It was used to worship the sun in ancient India—its golden color most likely the inspiration—and was also worn to ward off evil. Buddhist monks even dyed robes with it.

Historians believe that traders introduced turmeric to the western world during the medieval period, where it was known as “Indian saffron.” Today, it is still considered sacred and used in various rituals. Hawaiian Kahuna and traditional Vedic homes sprinkle turmeric mixed with seawater to purify the earth around them.

Health Benefits

Call turmeric a jack-of-all-trades—it’s one of the most versatile of all herbal healers. “It’s my favorite herb,” says K.P. Khalsa, the formulating herbalist for Yogi Tea. Khalsa describes it as a medium-strength herb with virtually no side effects. It is a popular stomach soother; an excellent skin food, treating myriad skin conditions, such as acne, dermatitis and psoriasis; tames oxidation; and relieves pain. In fact, as little as 1/4 teaspoon a day has measurable healing effects. Just be cautious that it doesn’t stain your hands yellow with its strong dyeing effects.