Turmeric (Jianghuang)

Pharmaceutical Name : Rhizoma Curcumae longae

Botanical Name : Curcuma longa L.

Common Name : Turmeric

Source of Earliest Record: Xinxiu Bencao

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations: The rhizomes are dug in autumn or winter. After the bark and fibrous roots have been removed, the rhizomes are cleaned, boiled, dried in the sun and cut into slices.

Properties & Taste : Pungent, bitter and warm

Meridians : Liver and spleen

Functions:
1. To invigorate blood and promote qi circulation;
2. To promote menstruation and stop pain

Indications & Combinations:

1. Qi and blood stagnation manifested as chest pain, hypochondriac pain, amenorrhea and abdominal pain. Turmeric (Jianghuang) is used with Chinese angelica root (Danggui), Curcuma root (Yujin), Cyperus tuber (Xiangfu) and Corydalis tuber (Yanhusuo).

2. Wind-damp obstruction syndrome manifested as rigid neck, shoulder pain and motor impairment of the limbs. Turmeric (Jianghuang) is used with Notopterygium root (Qianghuo) and Chinese angelica root (Danggui) in the formula Shujing Tang.

Dosage: 5-10 g