Turmeric
An herb is a plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor, or therapeutic properties. Herbal medicines are one type of dietary supplement. They are sold as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. People use herbal medicines to try to maintain or improve their health.
Many people believe that products labeled "natural" are always safe and good for them. This is not necessarily true. Herbal medicines do not have to go through the testing that drugs do. Some herbs, such as comfrey and ephedra, can cause serious harm. Some herbs can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
If you are thinking about using an herbal medicine, first get information on it from reliable sources. Make sure to tell your health care provider about any herbal medicines you are taking.
NIH: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
Felter's Materia Medica on Turmeric
The rhizome of Curcuma longa, Linné (Nat. Ord. Zingiberaceae). Southern and eastern Asia, and extensively cultivated in China, Hindustan, and other countries. Common Names: Turmeric, Curcuma. Principal Constituent.Curcumin, a yellow coloring matter. Preparation.Specific Medicine Curcuma. (A coloring agent.) Action and Uses.While turmeric is a mild aromatic stimulant, it is almost wholly used as a test for alkalies, and to color ointments and other pharmaceutical products.1
Physician's Materia Medica on Turmeric
The rhizome of CURCUMA LONGA, Lin. Aromatic resembling Ginger, but used chiefly as a coloring agent.2
References
2) Nelson, Baker & Co., 1904, Physician's Handy Book of Materia Medica and Therapeustics, Detroit, Michigan.