Turmeric is a perennial, rhizomatous plant that grows throughout the tropical parts of Asia favouring warm and humid climate. The word Haridra literally means ‘yellow’. It has a particular affinity for blood-related diseases.
Benefits of Haridra: Anemia, blood circulation, arthritis, blood purifier, blood tissue formation, cough, diabetes, worms, jaundice, fever, gas, piles, edema, pharyngitis, hysteria, skin diseases, antibiotic, chronic hepatitis, inflammation, protein digestion, asthma, fights cancer.
Action: Alterative, anthelmintic, antibacterial/antibiotic, aromatic, carminative, stimulant tonic.
Scientific name: Curcuma longa.
Useful part: Rhizome, tubers.
Energetics
Rasa (taste): Pungent, bitter, astringent
Vırya(energy): Heating
Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Pungent
Guna (quality): Dry, light
Dosa effect :VPK−, PV+ in excess
Dhatu(tissue): All the tissues
Srotas (channel): Digestive, circulatory, respiratory, reproductive
Classical and common names
Ayurvedic: Haridraa, Priyaka, Haridruma, Kshanda, Gauri, Kaanchani, Krimighna, Varavarnini, Yoshitapriyaa, Hattavilaasini, Naktaahvaa, Sharvari.
English: Turmeric.