Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It is native to tropical South Asia and needs temperatures between 20 C and 30 C, and a considerable amount of annual rainfall to thrive. Plants are gathered annually for their rhizomes, and re-seeded from some of those rhizomes in the following season.
Turmeric curcumin is a bright yellow/orange polyphenol having the form of a dry powder that is fat soluble. The concentrate has neither flavor nor aroma. It colors food readily if there is oil present. The medicinal properties and health benefits of turmeric extract are attributed partly to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
Turmeric extract is derived from the root of the turmeric plant first by drying and then by separation using a solvent. There are 18 times more curcuminoids in the concentrate than in the natural spice which is simply a powdered form of the dried root. The concentrate is also known as Curcumin.
Turmeric extract is a concentrated form of the natural spice which is simply the dried root. Turmeric Extract contains three molecular forms: the methoxy form, demethoxy form and the bisdemethoxy form. The forms tested in the research articles mentioned below are usually a natural mixture of all three unless otherwise stated.
Turmeric root extract is not toxic even at high doses, in laboratory animals, and has been in customary use by the people of India for centuries. Customary dosages for Turmeric Extract are in the range of 1 to 2.5 grams per day. Turmeric Extract can be obtained in the market place at purities above 95% which is now the standard. Its active ingredient is curcumin and it has an earthy, bitter, peppery flavor and a mustardy smell.
Turmeric extract is available in capsule, tablet, and bulk powder forms. Look to your local or internet supplement store when purchasing standardized quality Turmeric. Always look for name brands to ensure purity and potency of the extract you purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Turmeric is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.