Turmeric - traditional medicine

Turmeric has been used for many conditions in traditional medicine in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The rhizome is generally the part of the plant that is most widely used. It can be prepared in various ways and is reputed to alleviate asthma and coughs. Many of its traditional uses are supported by scientific evidence.

Ayurvedic medicine

Hot water extracts of the dried rhizome have been taken orally in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce inflammation. Turmeric is also regarded as a 'rasayana' herb, which is a branch of Ayurvedic medicine. Here turmeric is used to counteract ageing processes.

Unani medicine

A photograph of dried turmeric rhizomes from Kew's Economic Botany Collection.
Turmeric rhizomes are used to treat wide range of medical conditions.

In Unani medicine, turmeric has been used for conditions such as liver obstruction and jaundice and has been applied externally for ulcers and inflammation. Roasted turmeric has been used as an ingredient of a preparation used for dysentery. Turmeric has also been used in tooth powder or paste.

A hot water extract of the dried rhizome has been taken orally to slow lactation, to regulate fat metabolism, for diabetes, diarrhoea, liver diseases and has been taken as a tonic and to calm the stomach. The fresh juice taken regularly on an empty stomach has been used to prevent stomach disorders. A hot water extract of the dried rhizome is regarded as having an abortion promoting effect when taken orally or in the form of a pessary.

External applications

Externally the dried rhizome has been applied to fresh wounds and to insect stings and to help the healing process in chickenpox and smallpox. Turmeric is also reported to give a good complexion to the skin and has been applied externally to remove hair and to act as a tonic, and to alleviate itching. Inhalation of turmeric smoke is reputed to relieve hiccups.

Use with other plants

The rhizomes of turmeric have also been mixed with other plants to produce remedies for a range of conditions including tonsillitis, headaches, wounds, snake bites, stings, sprains and fractured bones.

This information is provided for general interest only. It is not intended as guidance for medicinal use. Further information on using herbal medicines is available.