Turmeric
Name: Curcuma longaDistribution: Tropical asia
Medicinal Role: The fibrous roots of this member of the ginger family are ground to fine powder used extensively in Asian cooking and long known in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The active ingredient curcumin has attracted attention for treatment of cancer, Alzheimers, diabetes, allergies and arthritis. Turmuric is also used for stomach ailments due to its' antibacterial activity.
Activity: Curcumin is anti-inflammatory and is an antioxidant.
Cultural: Turmeric is brightly colored and is used in place of more expensive saffron in cooking. It is also used as a natural fabric dye although it is not very light fast. It was traditionally used to dye monks robes. It is also used in Hindu ceremonies for its color associated with Surya the sun god.
