Abundant in vitamin C far more than brier or citrics are, sea buckthorn is used in the food industry, sylviculture, and pharmacy, and its positive effects can be seen in effectively treating illnesses, especially liver problems.
Description
Sea buckthorn is a tall shrub measuring about 1.5-3.5 meters tall and is covered in thorns. It grows in clusters on river shores, in swampy areas and even on gravel.

Sea buckthorn is harvested in the period between August - September. It is recommended that sea buckthorn fruits be harvested before the first frost settles in so as to avoid the sudden diminish of the vitamin C that it contains.
Proprieties
Sea buckthorn is an energizer, anti-anemic, abundant in vitamins, anti-inflammatory herb, and it also decreases appetite (in cases of treatments against obesity). At the same time it speeds up the recovery process after an illness, it's a good coronary protector and it can also slow down the aging process.

Due to the presence of a large amount of vitamins that it contains (C, A, B1, B2, B6, B9, E, K, P, F, as well as phosphoric microelements, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and sodium), sea buckthorn is used effectively in treating liver failures, improving the detoxification of the hepatic cell. It contributes to the synthetization of proteins and through the considerable amount of carotene that it contains, it�s also effective at preventing cancer. Furthermore it gives a relaxing sensation with slightly narcotic effects.
Treatment
Gastric and duodenal ulcer, allergies, diarrhea, nettle rash, rheumatism, neuro-endocrinological afflictions can be treated by using sea buckthorn oil. It can also be used against alcohol dependency, anemia, asthenia and stress.

In treating ophtalmological afflictions, hypertension and gingivitis, sea buckthorn is an excellent treatment mixed with other medicinal herbs.

Extraordinary results were obtained from processing sea buckthorn in pharmaceutical laboratories. The products obtained were used in treating depressions, Parkinson diseases, tumors, adenomas and leukemia.

Thermal and chemical burns, chilblains and infectious eczemas are treated with the aid of products containing sea buckthorn or sea buckthorn oil.

Positive effects were obtained from treating psoriasis with sea buckthorn (under the form of tea or tincture).

Macerated sea buckthorn is used in cases of common cold or flu.
Mixtures
From sea buckthorn tea can be prepared containing a sort of oil obtained from fruits, syrup, macerated sea buckthorn, tincture, juice, nectar, jam, jelly, sweets, jelly fruit, liquors and various alcoholic drinks.

Tea is recommended in cases of diarrhea, rheumatism, skin diseases, and nettle rash. It is obtained by putting two spoons of mashed fruits into 500ml boiled water. After leaving the pot covered for about 30 minutes its content is passed through a sieve.

Fruit oil is prepared from 150g of fresh fruits, over which 150ml of sunflower oil. The pot is kept at room temperature for 3 weeks stirred from time to time. After that, the seeds get crushed and placed in oil once again. After two days of being kept in a luminous warm place, the oil on the surface which should be clear is moved into another bowl. Thirty drops are administrated three times a day over a period of minimum three weeks.

By mixing half a litre of juice with half a litre of honey, fruit syrup is obtained. After homogenization the syrup is kept in the fridge. The treatment is long lasting and consists of taking from four to six spoons of syrup a day.

Macerated sea buckthorn is prepared by crushing 500g of sea buckthorn seeds over which 500g of honey is poured. This mixture is digested by taking a spoonful each day to keep the body resistant to cold and flu.

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Description
Usually, celery (Apium graveolens) is used in making salads, spicing up foods containing meat, etc. However, the roots, leaves and celery seeds are used for therapeutic purposes in treating and preventing diseases. In medicine, celery has been used as far back as Ancient Greece when it was highly valued for its properties as an aphrodisiac as well as its medicinal properties. Around the same time celery was also used as a decorative herb by the Romans, who used the leaves for their "Winner's Crown". In traditional medicine celery was used to eliminate intestinal parasites. Chinese medicine recommended celery to be used as a medicine to treat high blood pressure due to its stabilizing components. Apium graveolens initially grew on humid grounds of Europe and Asia. With the start of the 19th century, celery began to be grown in United States. Nowadays this vegetable is more commonly used in foods, due to the richness of its taste. It is also useful in stomach illnesses, rheumatism, obesity and diseases of the urinary bladder; celery keeps its therapeutic properties the best when it is consumed raw. Either used as a snack or as medicine, celery detoxifies the body, stimulates the nervous system and mineralizes the body.

Proprieties
One hundred grams of celery has an energetic value equal to 18 calories. It contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K, PP and minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc. Vitamin C contained by celery strengthens the immunologic system and at the same time makes the body more resistant against new diseases. Calcium, potassium and magnesium act towards the same goal, straightening the body. Along with magnesium, iron is effective in alleviating the effects of anemia. Celery has the ideal quantities of iron and magnesium to stop oncological diseases from progressing. This plant has diuretic properties and dichloridic effects which are useful in renal afflictions (like renal colic and renal lithiasis) and heart disorders. In this purpose celery root is used. Due to its depurative properties, the consumption of celery is recommended for individuals who have a fast paced lifestyle and are unable to maintain a healthy diet. Because of these properties - diuretic and depurative - celery is the ideal ingredient for diets based on weight-loss. Diets based on celery have energizing and fortifying effects on the body due to the stimulation of the renal glands, reduction of the stress hormone and decreasing of the heart rate. But celery also has hypoglycemic properties, which means it can be used in treating sugary diabetes. Other properties: expectorant, emollient (effective against bronchitis), it adjusts hormonal dysfunctions (dysmenorrhea, infertility, disorders caused by menopause, various forms of acne, allergic dermatosis); cicatrizing (good for wounds, scratches, ulcerations).

Treatments and mixtures
Celery is consumed as a diuretic and laxative by those who have urinary retentions or suffer from kidney illnesses; it is also efficient in cases of asthenia, hoarseness, rheumatism, icterus, gout, arthritis, inflammations, dermatosis, diabetes, and obesity. Individuals with high cholesterol should add celery to their diets. Moreover, celery is effective for those who have lack of food appetite. Below are some mixtures based on celery.

Infusion of celery powder
To prepare the infusion, four spoonfuls of celery powder are put in 1 liter of boiling water. After that, the mixture is passed through a sieve and 1 cup of it a day is consumed to treat hoarseness, intestinal gases or for its laxative/diuretic properties. The infusion made from boiling two spoonfuls of grained celery stimulates the central nervous system. The infusion is taken daily in small amounts. If in one glass of cold water a spoonful of grained celery root is left to macerate, the resulting mixture taken before each meal treats anorexia. The infusion needs to be renewed each day.

Celery decoct
Twenty five grams of celery boiled in 1 liter of water are sufficient in preparing the mixture. The resulting decoct is taken in small quantities and is efficient against rheumatism, cough and hoarseness. A more concentrated decoct (containing between 30 and 40 grams of celery root in 1 liter of water) has a diuretic and depurative effect, treating slow digestions, obesity, gout, rheumatism.

Celery juice
Celery juice is excellent in treating rheumatism, allergies, stomach disorders, eliminating toxins, stimulating digestion and food appetite, adjusting sexual functions (treats frigidity and impotence) and is known as an all-round aphrodisiac. The ideal dosage in which it should be consumed is 3 glasses a day.

Warning
For pregnant women the consumption of celery should be made in very small quantities. Celery can cause in very rare cases allergic reactions to some individuals (cases which occurred in Central Europe).

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Onion General Information
Ancient Greek historical accounts show the Onion was so popular that at one time, nine tons of gold was used to buy Onions to feed the builders of the pyramids. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a charm against evil spirits and the plague. Bunches of Onions were hung on doors to ward off the plague, typhoid, and cholera as well. Ancient folk healers believed Onion juice prevented infection. The sulfur content in Onions gives this plant its strong aroma and sharp flavor. In folk medicine, a half Onion was placed by the bedside in a sickroom to ward off germs. Scientific studies found that Onion does in fact, draw bacteria from the atmosphere. It was also found that the sulfur content in Onions is effective against bacillus subtilis, salmonella typhi, pseudomonas aeroginosa, and E. coli. This plant is rich in vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), and C, and has diuretic, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, decongestant, diaphoretic, anti-microbial, anti-asthmatic, expectorant, anti-rheumatic, and tonic properties.
Onion Uses & Scientific Evidence For
Onion is thought to reduce blood pressure and improve circulation. Onion is taken for colds, flu, and coughs. It can help ward off angina, arteriosclerosis, and heart attack. It also works well for preventing oral infection and tooth decay. Externally, warmed Onion juice in the ear can soothe earaches and a baked Onion poultice works for draining pus from sores.

Placing a poultice on the chest relieves congestion, abscesses, and boils. Some modern herbalists use Onion juice to remove warts and prevent acne, and an Onion syrup works well as an expectorant. Onion is also thought to be an aphrodisiac and a hair tonic for stimulating growth. Sliced, raw Onions work well in soothing bee stings, insect bites, hives, or nettle rash. Steam inhalation with hot water and raw Onions relieves sinus congestion caused by colds.
Onion Dosage Information
Onion comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For soothing sore throats and coughs, use 2 Onions and 2 tablespoons honey, steeped overnight at room temperature. Steeping 4 medium-sized hot Onions in 1 liter or pint of hot water for 2 or 3 hours works as an infusion for treating colds, congestion, coughs, and bronchitis. Simmer 3 Onions in ¾ cup of water for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain and ad honey for relieving congestion. Tea made from boiled Onion skins are used to improve poor circulation, and works especially well in cases of gout. For other formulations and products, read and follow product label directions.
Onion Safety & Interaction Information
Onions are generally regarded as safe; however, this vegetable can cause digestive upset in some people if too many are eaten raw at one time.

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Overview

Ginger, the underground stem, or rhizome, of the plant Zingiber officinale has been used as a medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic herbal traditions since ancient times. In China, for example, ginger has been used to aid digestion and treat stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea for more than 2,000 years. Since ancient times, ginger has also been used to help treat arthritis, colic, diarrhea, and heart conditions. In addition to these medicinal uses, ginger continues to be valued around the world as an important cooking spice and is believed to help the common cold, flu-like symptoms, headaches, and even painful menstrual periods. Native to Asia where its use as a culinary spice spans at least 4,400 years, ginger grows in fertile, moist, tropical soil.

Plant Description

Ginger is a knotted, thick, beige underground stem (rhizome). The stem extends roughly 12 inches above ground with long, narrow, ribbed, green leaves, and white or yellowish-green flowers.

What's It Made Of?

The important active components of the ginger root are thought to be volatile oils and pungent phenol compounds (such as gingerols and shogaols).

Medicinal Uses and Indications

Today, ginger root is widely used as a digestive aid for mild stomach upset and is commonly recommended by health care professionals to help prevent or treat nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness, pregnancy, and cancer chemotherapy. Ginger is used as support in inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, and may even be used in heart disease or cancer.

Motion Sickness

Several studies suggest that ginger may be more effective than placebo in reducing symptoms associated with motion sickness. In one trial of 80 novice sailors (prone to motion sickness), those who took powdered ginger experienced a significant reduction in vomiting and cold sweating compared to those who took placebo. Similar results were found in a study with healthy volunteers. While these results are promising, other studies suggest that ginger is not as effective as medications in reducing symptoms associated with motion sickness. In a small study of volunteers who were given ginger (fresh root and powder form), scopolamine (a medication commonly prescribed for motion sickness), or placebo, those receiving the medication experienced significantly fewer symptoms compared to those who received ginger.

Conventional prescription and non-prescription medicines that decrease nausea may also cause unwanted side effects, such as dry mouth and drowsiness. Given the safety of ginger, many people find it a welcome alternative to these medications to relieve their motion sickness.

Pregnancy Related Nausea and Vomiting

A limited number of human studies suggests that 1 gram daily of ginger may be safe and effective for pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting when used for short periods (no longer than 4 days). Several studies have found that ginger is more effective than placebo in relieving nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. In a small study including 30 pregnant women with severe vomiting, those who ingested 1 gram of ginger every day for four days reported more relief from vomiting than those who received placebo. In a larger study including 70 pregnant women with nausea and vomiting, those who received a similar dosage of ginger felt less nauseous and experienced fewer vomiting episodes than those who received placebo.

Chemotherapy nausea

There is evidence from a few studies that suggests ginger reduces the severity and duration of nausea (but not vomiting) during chemotherapy. Long-term studies should be performed to confirm these results and to establish safety.

Nausea and vomiting following surgery

Research has produced mixed results regarding the use of ginger in the treatment of nausea and vomiting following surgery. In two studies, 1 gram of ginger root before surgery reduced nausea as effectively as a leading medication. In one of these two studies, women who received ginger also required fewer nausea-relieving medications following surgery. Other studies, however, have failed to find the same positive effects. In fact, one study found that ginger may actually increase vomiting following surgery. For this reason, further studies are needed to determine whether ginger is safe and effective for the prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting following surgery.

Inflammation

In addition to providing relief from nausea and vomiting, ginger extract has long been used in traditional medical practices to decrease inflammation. In fact, many health care professionals today use ginger to help treat health problems associated with inflammation, such as arthritis and ulcerative colitis. In a study of 261 people with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, those who received a ginger extract twice daily experienced less pain and required fewer pain-killing medications compared to those who received placebo. Although there have also been a few other studies of the benefit of ginger for arthritis, one trial found that the herb was no more effective than ibuprofen (a medication frequently used to treat OA) or placebo in reducing symptoms of OA.

Other uses

• Although it is much too early to tell if this will benefit those with heart disease, a few preliminary studies suggest that ginger may lower cholesterol and prevent the blood from clotting. Each of these effects may protect the blood vessels from blockage and the damaging effects of blockage such as atherosclerosis, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
• Laboratory studies have also found that components in ginger may have anticancer activity. More research needs to be performed to determine the effects of ginger on various cancers in humans.

Available Forms

Ginger products are made from fresh or dried ginger root, or from steam distillation of the oil in the root. The herb is available in extracts, tinctures, capsules, and oils. Fresh ginger root can also be purchased and prepared as a tea. Ginger is also a common cooking spice and can be found in a variety of foods and drinks, including ginger bread, ginger snaps, ginger sticks, and ginger ale.

How to Take It

Pediatric

Ginger should not be used by children under 2 years of age.

Ginger may be used by children over 2 years of age to treat nausea, digestive cramping, and headaches. Adjust the recommended adult dose to account for the child's weight. Most herbal dosages for adults are calculated on the basis of a 150 lb (70 kg) adult. Therefore, if the child weighs 50 lb (20 - 25 kg), the appropriate dose of ginger for this child would be 1/3 of the adult dosage.

Adult

In general, ginger intake should not exceed 4 grams in one day (this includes the ginger obtained through diet such as from ginger ale, ginger snaps, and ginger bread). Usually, food sources contain no more than 0.5% ginger.

Standardized dose: Take 75 - 2,000 mg in divided doses with food, standardized to contain 4% volatile oils or 5% total pungent compounds including 6-gingerol or 6-shogaol.

For nausea, gas, or indigestion: 2 - 4 grams of fresh root daily (0.25 - 1.0 g of powdered root) or 1.5 - 3.0 mL (30 - 90 drops) liquid extract daily. To prevent vomiting, take 1 gram of powdered ginger (1/2 tsp) or its equivalent, every 4 hours as needed (not to exceed 4 doses daily), or 2 ginger capsules (1 gram), 3 times daily. You may also chew a 1/4 oz piece of fresh ginger when needed.

To relieve arthritis pain: Take fresh ginger juice, extract, or tea, 2 - 4 grams daily. Topical ginger oil may also be rubbed into a painful joint. Fresh ginger root may also be placed in a warm poultice or compress and apply to painful areas.

For cold and flu symptoms, sore throat, headache and menstrual cramps: Steep 2 tbsp of freshly shredded ginger in hot water, 2 - 3 times daily. A drop of ginger oil or a few slices of fresh rhizome may also be placed in steaming water and inhaled.

Precautions

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain components that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.

Side effects associated with ginger are rare, but if taken in excessive doses the herb may cause mild heartburn. Some of the mild gastrointestinal side effects, such as belching, heartburn, or stomach upset, may be relieved by taking ginger supplements in capsules.

People with gallstones should consult a doctor before taking ginger. Make sure to tell your doctor if you are taking ginger and will be going to surgery or placed under anesthesia for any reason.

Do not take ginger if you have a bleeding disorder or if you are taking blood thinning medications, including aspirin.

Possible Interactions

Ginger may alter the effects of some prescription and non-prescription medications. If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use ginger without first talking to your health care provider.

Blood-thinning medications -- Although ginger may interfere with blood clotting, there have been no scientific or case reports of interactions between ginger and blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and warfarin. However, people taking medications that thin the blood should use ginger only under the supervision of a health care provider.

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SOY

Definition

The soybean has been a part of the human diet for almost 5,000 years. Unlike most plant foods, the soybean is high in protein and is considered equivalent to animal foods in terms of the quality of the protein it contains.

Function

Soy in your diet can lower cholesterol. There are many scientific studies that support this conclusion. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agreed that 25 grams per day of soy protein, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Soy may also reduce symptoms of menopause and the risk of osteoporosis. Soy products may possibly prevent certain hormone-dependent cancers,including breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and prostate cancer.

Food Sources

Not all soy protein products contain the same amount of protein. The following list ranks some popular products from greatest amount of soy protein to lowest:

• Soy protein isolate (added to many soy food products, including soy sausage patties and soybean burgers)
• Soy flour
• Whole soybeans
• Tofu

The best way to find out about protein content is to look on the product's Nutrition Facts label to see the percentage of soy protein. Also look at the list of ingredients. If a product contains isolated soy protein (or soy protein isolate), the protein content should be fairly high.

Some products also list how many grams of soy protein are in one serving of the product.

Note: There's a difference between soy supplements (commonly sold in tablets or capsules) and soy protein products. Soy supplements are generally made of concentrated soy isoflavones. These substances may help relieve symptoms of menopause but there is not enough evidence to support using soy isoflavones for any of the other health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol.

Side Effects

For individuals who are not allergic to soy, no serious short-term or long-term side effects have been reported from eating soy foods.

Common mild side effects include stomach aches, constipation, and diarrhea.

Soybeans also contain moderate amounts of a natural substance called purine. Purines can make gout worse. Persons with gout should not eat alot of soy products.

Recommendations

In adults, 25 grams per day of soy protein may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Soy foods and soy-based infant formula are widely used in children, but no studies have shown whether isolated soy protein or isoflavone supplements are useful or safe in this population. Therefore, isolated soy products are not recommended for children at this time.

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Main Preparation Method: decoction

Main Actions (in order):
antidysenteric, antiseptic, antibacterial, antispasmodic, cardiotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the heart)

Main Uses:

1. for dysentery (bacterial and amebic), diarrhea, colic, and infantile rotavirus enteritis
2. as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial for internal and external bacterial, fungal, candidal, and amebic infections
3. to tone, balance, protect and strengthen the heart (and for arrhythmia and some heart diseases)
4. as a cough suppressant, analgesic (pain-reliever), and febrifuge (reduces fever) for colds, flu, sore throat, etc
5. as a topical remedy for ear and eye infections

Properties/Actions Documented by Research:
amebicide, analgesic (pain-reliever), antibacterial, anticandidal, antidysenteric, antifungal, antimalarial, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiulcerous, cardiodepressant, cardiotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the heart), central nervous system depressant, cough suppressant, gastrototonic (tones, balances, strengthens the gastric tract), hypotensive (lowers blood pressure), sedative, vasoconstrictor

Other Properties/Actions Documented by Traditional Use:
anti-anxiety, anticonvulsant, antiseptic, astringent, blood cleanser, digestive stimulant, menstrual stimulant, nervine (balances/calms nerves), vermifuge (expels worms)

Cautions: It has a cardiac depressant effect and is contraindicated in some heart conditions.

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Background
The rhizome (root) of turmeric ( Curcuma longa Linn.) has long been used in traditional Asian medicine to treat gastrointestinal upset, arthritic pain, and "low energy." Laboratory and animal research has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties of turmeric and its constituent curcumin. Preliminary human evidence, albeit poor quality, suggests possible efficacy in the management of dyspepsia (heartburn), hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), and scabies (when used on the skin).


Evidence

Blood clot prevention Early research suggests that turmeric may prevent the formation of blood clots. However, more research is needed before turmeric can be recommended for these conditions.	C
Cancer Several early animal and laboratory studies report anti-cancer (colon, skin, breast) properties of curcumin. Many mechanisms have been considered, including antioxidant activity, anti-angiogenesis (prevention of new blood vessel growth), and direct effects on cancer cells. Currently it remains unclear if turmeric or curcumin has a role in preventing or treating human cancers. There are several ongoing studies in this area.	C
Cognitive function Curcumin has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and to reduce beta-amyloid and plaque burden in lab studies. However, there is currently not enough evidence to suggest the use of curcumin for cognitive performance.	C
Dyspepsia (heartburn) Turmeric has been traditionally used to treat stomach problems (such as indigestion from a fatty meal). There is preliminary evidence that turmeric may offer some relief from these stomach problems. However, at high doses or with prolonged use, turmeric may actually irritate or upset the stomach. Reliable human research is necessary before a recommendation can be made.	C
Gallstone prevention/bile flow stimulant It has been said that there are fewer people with gallstones in India, which is sometimes credited to turmeric in the diet. Early studies report that curcumin, a chemical in turmeric, may decrease the occurrence of gallstones. However, reliable human studies are lacking in this area. The use of turmeric may be inadvisable in patients with active gallstones.	C
High cholesterol Early studies suggest that turmeric may lower levels of low-density lipoprotein ("bad cholesterol") and total cholesterol in the blood. Better human studies are needed before a recommendation can be made.	C
HIV/AIDS Several laboratory studies suggest that curcumin, a component of turmeric, may have activity against HIV. However, reliable human studies are lacking in this area.	C
Inflammation Laboratory and animal studies show anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric and its constituent curcumin. Reliable human research is lacking.	C
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional disorder for which there are limited reliable medical treatments. One study investigated the effects of Curcuma xanthorriza on IBS and found that treatment did not show any therapeutic benefit over placebo. More studies are needed to verify these findings.	C
Liver protection In traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric has been used to tone the liver. Early research suggests that turmeric may have a protective effect on the liver, but more research is needed before any recommendations can be made.	C
Oral leukoplakia Results from lab and animal studies suggest turmeric may have anticancer effects. Large, well-designed human studies are needed before a recommendation can be made.	C
Osteoarthritis Turmeric has been used historically to treat rheumatic conditions. Laboratory and animal studies show anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric and its constituent curcumin, which may be beneficial in people with osteoarthritis. Reliable human research is lacking.	C
Peptic ulcer disease (stomach ulcer) Turmeric has been used historically to treat stomach and duodenal ulcers. However, at high doses or with prolonged use, turmeric may actually further irritate or upset the stomach. Currently, there is not enough human evidence to make a firm recommendation.	C
Rheumatoid arthritis Turmeric has been used historically to treat rheumatic conditions and based on animal research may reduce inflammation. Reliable human studies are necessary before a recommendation can be made in this area.	C
Scabies Historically, turmeric has been used on the skin to treat chronic skin ulcers and scabies. It has also been used in combination with the leaves of the herb Azadirachta indica ADR or "neem." More research is necessary before a firm recommendation can be made.	C
Uveitis (eye inflammation) Laboratory and animal studies show anti-inflammatory activity of turmeric and its constituent curcumin. A poorly designed human study suggests a possible benefit of curcumin in the treatment of uveitis. Reliable human research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.	C
Viral infection Evidence suggests that turmeric may help treat viral infections. However, there is not enough human evidence in this area. Well-designed trials are needed to determine if these claims are true.	C

Uses based on tradition or theory Abdominal bloating, Alzheimer's disease, antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, anti-venom, appetite stimulant, asthma, boils, breast milk stimulant, bruises, cataracts, chemoprotective, contraception, cough, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, diarrhea, dizziness, epilepsy, flavoring agent, gas, gonorrhea, heart damage from doxorubicin (Adriamycin®, Doxil®), Helicobacter pylori infection, hepatitis, high blood pressure, histological dye, human papillomavirus (HPV), hypoglycemic agent (blood sugar lowering), infections (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), insect bites, insect repellent, jaundice, kidney disease, kidney stones, leprosy, liver damage from toxins/drugs, male fertility, menstrual pain, menstrual period problems/lack of menstrual period, multidrug resistance, neurodegenerative disorders, pain, parasites, ringworm, scarring, scleroderma, weight reduction.


Dosing A. Adults (over 18 years old)
Doses used range from 450 milligrams of curcumin capsules to 3 grams of turmeric root daily, divided into several doses, taken by mouth. As a tea, 1 to 1.5 grams of dried root may be steeped in 150 milliliters of water for 15 minutes and taken twice daily. Average dietary intake of turmeric in the Indian population may range between 2 to 2.5 grams, corresponding to 60 to 200 milligrams of curcumin daily. A dose of 0.6 milliliters of turmeric oil has been taken three times daily for one month and a dose of 1 milliliter in three divided doses has been taken for two months.

One reported method for treating scabies is to cover affected areas once daily with a paste consisting of a 4:1 mixture of Azadirachta indica ADR ("neem") to turmeric, for up to 15 days. Scabies should be treated under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

B. Children (under 18 years old)
There is no proven or safe medicinal dose of turmeric in children.

Allergies Allergic reactions to turmeric may occur, including contact dermatitis (an itchy rash) after skin or scalp exposure. People with allergies to plants in the Curcuma genus are more likely to have an allergic reaction to turmeric. Use cautiously in patients allergic to turmeric or any of its constituents (including curcumin), to yellow food colorings, or to plants in the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family.

Side Effects and Warnings Turmeric may cause an upset stomach, especially in high doses or if given over a long period of time. Heartburn has been reported in patients being treated for stomach ulcers. Since turmeric is sometimes used for the treatment of heartburn or ulcers, caution may be necessary in some patients. Nausea and diarrhea have also been reported.

Based on laboratory and animal studies, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary. Turmeric should be stopped prior to scheduled surgery.

Limited animal studies show that a component of turmeric, curcumin, may increase liver function tests. However, one human study reports that turmeric has no effect on these tests. Turmeric or curcumin may cause gallbladder squeezing (contraction) and may not be advised in patients with gallstones. In animal studies, hair loss (alopecia) and lowering of blood pressure have been reported. In theory, turmeric may weaken the immune system and should be used cautiously in patients with immune system deficiencies.

Turmeric should be used with caution in people with diabetes or hypoglycemia or people taking drugs or supplements that lower blood sugar.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Historically, turmeric has been considered safe when used as a spice in foods during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, turmeric has been found to cause uterine stimulation and to stimulate menstrual flow and caution is therefore warranted during pregnancy. Animal studies have not found turmeric taken by mouth to cause abnormal fetal development.

Interactions Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.
Interactions with Drugs
Based on laboratory and animal studies, turmeric may inhibit platelets in the blood and increase the risk of bleeding caused by other drugs. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve® ).

Based on animal data, turmeric may lower blood sugar and therefore may have additive effects with diabetes medications.

In animals, turmeric protects against stomach ulcers caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin (Indocin®) and against heart damage caused by the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (Adriamycin®).

Turmeric may lower blood pressure levels and may have an additive effect if taken with drugs that also lower blood pressure.

Turmeric may lower blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad" cholesterol) and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good" cholesterol). Thus, turmeric may increase the effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs such as lovastatin (Mevacor®) or atorvastatin (Lipitor®).

Based on animal studies, turmeric may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs using the liver's "cytochrome P450" enzyme system. As a result, the levels of these drugs may be increased in the blood and may cause increased effects or potentially serious adverse reactions. Patients using any medications should check the package insert and speak with a healthcare professional or pharmacist about possible interactions.

When taken with indomethacin or reserpine, turmeric may help reduce the number of stomach and intestinal ulcers normally caused by these drugs. However, when taken in larger doses or when used for long periods of time, turmeric itself can cause ulcers.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements Based on animal studies, turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba , some cases with garlic, and fewer cases with saw palmetto.

Based on animal data, turmeric may lower blood sugar. Individuals taking other herbs or supplements or diabetes medications should speak with a healthcare professional before starting turmeric.

Turmeric may lower blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad" cholesterol) and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good" cholesterol). Thus, turmeric may increase the effects of cholesterol-lowering herbs or supplements such as fish oil, garlic, guggul, or niacin.

Based on animal studies, turmeric may interfere with the way the body processes certain herbs or supplements using the liver's "cytochrome P450" enzyme system. As a result, the levels of other herbs or supplements may become too high in the blood. It may also alter the effects that other herbs or supplements possibly have on the P450 system.

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