click here for enlarged picture |
| Description: |
Perennial erect herb that grows
to about 1.5 m high, with fleshy and aromatic branched underground stem (rhizome), Leaves
are large, about 70 cm long and 20 cm wide. Flowers yellowish-white, fragrant;
inflorescence terminal. Rhizome is yellow outside, bright yellow-orange inside. |
| Ecological distribution: |
Native to the Indo-Malesian
region; in rich, moist soils, in most of Southeast Asia. |
| Parts used: |
Rhizomes |
| Traditional uses: |
As medicine – juice is
applied to bruises, for stomach ache, as antispasmodic; for skin itch and other skin
diseases; expels intestinal worms Other uses: Food
color, spice and dye for fabrics and fibers.. |
| Special precautions: |
As with any other medication, if
after using for 3 – 5 days, symptoms persist or there is no sign improvement, consult
a doctor. |
| Product available: |
Turmeric ointment, turmeric
powder. |
| Further information in: |
de Padua,L.S., N.
Bunyapraphatsara, R.H.M.J. Lemmens (Editors). 1999. Plant Resources of South East Asia
12(1) Medicinal and Poisonous Plants. Backhuys Publishers, Leiden, the Netherlands.771
pp. |
| Or contact: |
RED Foundation Inc., Los Baņos,
Laguna 4031 Philippines Tel no. (63) (049) 536 0205. |
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