Known botanically as Curcuma longa, turmeric is a member of the Curcuma botanical group that is most recognized as both a popular spice used in cooking a number of dishes as well as an alternative treatment for numerous conditions including Alzheimer's Disease, cancer and liver disorders. The herb exhibits antifungal, antibiotic, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric's nutrient content includes calcium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and vitamins B₁, B₂, B₃ and C.

Turmeric has been described as having the ability to shield the liver from toxic substances, prevent the formation of gallstones or shrink existing stones and increase bile flow.

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties have also been demonstrated in numerous studies making it a recommendation among many experts for the treatment of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Blood sugar may also be reduced with alcohol extracts of turmeric, which could make the herb a potential diabetes treatment. Moreover, clinical trials in China have suggested that serum cholesterol levels can be lowered by simply using turmeric as a food seasoning.

Within the root of turmeric is a substance known as a lipopolysaccharide who’s properties appear to stimulate and enhance the immune system. It has shown to inhibit the spread of HIV in laboratory tests.

Turmeric also contains a substance that is currently being studied as a possible preventative treatment for cancer known as cucurmin. In studies on animals cucurmin seems to reduce the rate of genetic mutations.

In leukemia cells, cucurmin has also been shown to induce a process called apoptosis which is basically the process by which these cancerous cells self-destruct. Cucurmin may also aid colon cancer prevention according to recent studies on tissue samples from the human digestive tract.

Turmeric is available in your local health food store in powder and capsule form.

* Important note: Long term use of Curcumin can result in stomach distress.

It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using Curcumin or any alternative therapies. The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.