Common Name Javanese Turmeric

Latin Binomial Curcumae Xanthorrhizae ROXB
Family: Zingiberaceae

Part used Rhizome, root (powder) (1)

Herbal Use/Indication Dyspeptic complaints. As a choleretic. (90)

Dosage Average daily dose is 2 g. (90)

Active Constituents Curcumin
Desmethoxycurcumin
b-Curcumene
ar-Curcumene
Xanthorrhizol

Contra-Indications Obstruction of the bile duct. In cases of gallstones, to be used only after consultation with a doctor. (90)
Drug Interactions
None known. (90)
Pregnancy and lactation
Due to lack of data, use of Turmeric preparation should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.

Summary A member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). The powdered form of the rhizome imparts a characteristic yellow color to foods. Can protect food products from sunlight. Turmeric is currently being investigated for possible benefits in Alzheimer's disease, cancer, arthritis, and other clinical disorders. (76)

Pharmacological actions As a choleretic and cholekinetic in treating chronic forms of cholangitis and cholecystitis, as well as gallstones. (16)
The choleretic action is ascribed mainly to the essential oil, while curcumins may be responsible for the cholekinetic effects of the drug. (76)(77)(78)
Also used as a stomachic and carminative. (16)

Side effects Gastric complaints on prolonged use. (90) Large doses may cause irritation of the gastric mucous membrane with consequent nausea. Not to be used in cholangitis or icterus. (16)

Barnes J, Anderson LA, Phillipson DJ. Herbal Medicines. Third edition. Grayslake, Il Phrmaceutical Press; 2007. 710p.

German Commission E monograph. BAnz no. 122, dated 06.07.1988.

J.C. Bauman, Med. Monatsschr. 29, 173 (1975)

Bisset NG, ed. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals (Witchl M, ed., German edition). Stuttgart: medpharm, 1994.

G. Harnischfeger and H. Stolze, notabene medici 12, 562 (1982).

H. Kalk and K. Nissen, Dtsch, Med. Worchenschr. 57, 1613 (1931); idem; ibid., 58, 1718 (1932).