Turmeric is a perennial plant that grows 5 to 6 feet high, Dr.Abhay Kumar Pati, Best Nutrition Inc.

June 11, 2010 - PRLog -- TURMERIC

Latin name:         Curcuma longa   
English names:       Turmeric, Indian saffron
Sanskrit names:       Haridra, Gauri
Indian names:      Haldi, Halud, Pitarus, Haldar, Arishina, Halad

Medicinal parts used:    Rhizomes

Turmeric is a perennial plant that grows 5 - 6 feet high in the tropical regions of Southern Asia, with trumpet-shaped, dull yellow flowers. Its roots are bulbs that also produce rhizomes, which then produce stems and roots for new plants. Turmeric is fragrant and has a bitter, somewhat sharp taste. Although it grows in many tropical locations, the majority of turmeric is grown in India, where it is used as a main ingredient in curry.
The roots, or rhizomes and bulbs, are used in medicinal and food preparations. They are generally boiled and then dried, turning into the familiar yellow powder. Curcumin, the active ingredient, has antioxidant properties, which some claim may be as strong as vitamins C and E. Other substances in this herb have antioxidant properties as well.

Therapeutic use:
•   Digestive disorders. Curcumin, one of the active ingredients in turmeric, induces the flow of bile, which breaks down fats. Arthritis. Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory agent that relieves the aches and pains associated with arthritis.
•   Cardiovascular conditions.
•   Cancer. Turmeric decreased symptoms of skin cancers and reduced the incidence of chemically caused breast cancer in lab animals.
•   Bacterial infection. The herb's volatile oil functions as an external antibiotic, preventing bacterial infection in wounds.

Precautions
Turmeric and curcumin are considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, extended or excessive use of curcumin may produce gastrointestinal upset and, in extreme cases, ulcers. If you have been diagnosed with gallstones or obstruction of the bile passages, consult with your health care provider before using turmeric products.

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Biotechayur manufactures botanical standardized nutritional herbal extracts. Biotechayur also manufactures aminoacids, protein, and aromatic essences
The plant is located in Orissa, India