The golden herb

Ayurvedic and Unani physicians, relying on their respective ancient literatures, have since long prescribed this spice for a number of ailments: bleeding disorders, epilepsy, stomach ailments and heart and liver disorders. Chinese medicine also capitalised on this rhizome for treatment of asthma and hemorrhagic disorders. Given turmeric8217;s anti-oxidant property, it has been invaluable since ancient times in preserving food.

It has also been recognised always for its anti-microbial activity, in the sense that it has been known to fight certain infections. This is now borne out by recent research, which suggests that turmeric can actually be effective treatment for Helicobacter Pylori, a commonly occurring bacteria that infects and colonises the stomach.

The medical journal Digestive Diseases and Sciences reported in 2005 that turmeric may hold the key to turning off inflammation in the gut. There is also keen interest in the increasing evidence that active chemicals in turmeric can prevent the development of cancer cells.

I am keen on using the example of turmeric to also highlight the fact that one should always be slightly wary of relying blindly on folklore. In India it is standard practice to discontinue the use of turmeric for any patient affected by viral hepatitis. The reason is the false fear that its yellow colour may increase the jaundiced appearance of the patient. On the contrary, scientific evidence recommends the use of turmeric in hastening the recovery process in cases of viral hepatitis.