Turmeric Root (Curcuma longa)
Herbal parts: roots
Sources: StarWest Botanicals, Frontier Co-Op
Turmeric root is one of the main herbs used widely in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Aryuvedic medicine.
Turmeric root has many potent medicinal properties:
- powerful anti-inflammatory actions
- rich in anti-oxidants
- supports joint health
- boosts the immune system
- improves brain function and mental health
- aids in digestive health and liver detox
- can help lower the risk of heart disease
- may help prevent cancer
Other key medicinal benefits include:
SIMPLE STEPS TO MAKE YOUR OWN HERBAL MEDICINE
TEA INFUSION: Pour heated water over herbs. Let steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy hot or cold.
TINCTURE: Fill a glass jar ¾ full with herbs. Add ½ alcohol & ½ water to cover the dry herbs. Any (drinking) alcohol will do. Use at least 40%/80 proof for leaves, stems and flowers. Higher proof for roots and resins. Shake well at least once per day. Store in a cool, dark place. Over time, the clear alcohol/water mix will turn brown. This is the medicine being extracted from the herbs. The longer the jar sits, the more potent the medicine becomes. Stored properly, tinctures are good for 3+ years or longer.
OIL INFUSION: Fill a glass jar ¾ full with herbs. Pour desired liquid oil to cover the herbs. Shake well. Optional: warm the jar using sunlight, a crock pot or other low heat source. Remove from heat and store in a cool, dark place. Over time, the herb/oil mix will turn brown. This is the medicine being extracted from the herbs. The longer the jar sits, the more potent the medicine becomes. Stored properly, infused oils are good for 1-2+ years.
BATH SALTS: Combine dry herbs with epsom salts. Steep in bath water. Relax & enjoy!
SALVE: Simmer dry herbs together in a pot with coconut oil & shea butter. Add melted beeswax to prevent separation.
When still warm, pour into a container for future use.
Mix will harden as it cools.
POULTICE: Follow directions for herbal tea infusions. Place in light towel, cheesecloth or other mesh bag. Apply topically as needed.
SPRAY: Follow directions for herbal tea infusions. Add to a spray bottle and apply as needed. Store in the refrigerator for longest use.
LINIMENT: Follow the same directions as with a tincture. Use rubbing alcohol in place of vodka or other drinking alcohol. Apply topically as needed.
SMOKE: Add a spoonful of herbs to a bowl, rolling papers or smoking pipe. Light the dry herbs and inhale the medicinal smoke.