How to Grow Your Own Super-Powered Organic Turmeric to Reverse Inflammation and Cancer

Curcumae Longae, also known as turmeric, is a highly valued root in Ayurvedic medicine and cookery in South Asia. Originally from Southern Asia, the name curcuma is derived from “kurkum”or “saffron”. This indicates its relation to the distinct orange color of these herbs. Its roots have been used as a spice, perfume ingredient, and dye since time immemorial.

Properties and uses.

Turmeric has several medicinal benefits. It can be used to cure liver diseases, parasitic and fungal infections, ulcers, bruises, skin problems, sprains, joint pain and swelling, muscular aches, cold and flu, strains, and Athlete’s foot. It also helps in digestion.

Studies indicate that it helps in destroying liver toxins, strengthening the functioning of the gallbladder, assists in breaking down lipids and prevents blood clotting. This means it is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. This property makes it a rival to ibuprofen. Recently, research shows that it is important in the prevention of cancers, including breast, colon and lung cancer. Turmeric is believed to have more than 600 possible preventive and therapeutic uses.

Planting, growth and harvest

It is a perennial plant that re-shoots every spring and thrives in well drained fertile land. It does well in warm direct or indirect sunlight. It required enough heat and moisture and grows well in regions with high temperatures in summer such as USDA Zones 7b-10b, however, during summer it will wilt.

It can be grown any time unless you live in a tropical region. The roots can be put directly in the ground while still fresh. Its dried rhizome can also be used in later plantings.

After plating, the shoots will emerge after approximately two months. Rhizomes are normally harvested after seven to ten months when the leaves and stems have dried. When it has transformed from lush green to dry, carefully dig up the plant ensuring the root is all out. The most appropriate harvesting time is end of the summer planting season.

How to dry, yield and storage:

Drying turmeric is a bit complicated. After harvesting, boil the leaves and leave them to dry completely. Grind the dry roots to a powder and store in airtight containers. It can also be taken in its raw form. Fresh roots require refrigeration just like fresh ginger. You can harvest an average of 700 grams of fresh root from each plant. Phenolic curcuminoid is the major active chemical component in turmeric. It also contains immune boosting polysaccharides.

Side effects

There are no known contraindications. Do not use if you are pregnant, it is known to stimulate menstruation and may prompt abortion. If you are taking drugs that lower blood sugar it is advisable to avoid turmeric.

If you like gardening or find turmeric to be expensive read on to know how you can cultivate your own turmeric plant.

How To Grow Turmeric Indoors

Just like ginger, it is grown from root cuttings because it does not produce seeds. You only need one root which can be bought from the market or health stores.

To grow turmeric indoors, just follow these simple steps:

• Break the root cutting into small rhizomes with two or three buds.
• Put lightly moist but well drained rich organic soil in a pot.
• Put the rhizomes about two inches in the soil, with the buds facing upwards.
• Water the container.

Note: Turmeric will thrive from bi-monthly additions good organic fertilizer or compost tea.

Watering Turmeric

Water the plant every 2 days or mist with a spray bottle to keep the soil humid. Cooler climates require less watering than hotter climates. It is important not to get the soil soggy, just keep it moist.

How to Harvest Turmeric

Harvest the roots after 8 to 10 months when the rhizomes have matured. The leaves and stems are also edible. Dig out all the rhizomes from the pot all at once. Keep a few pieces for subsequent growing. Remember to change the soil because nutrients may have been depleted.

Storage and Use

Store the roots in cool, dry place.

Directions for use:

• Boil them for about 45 minutes.
• Dry the boiled roots for about a week.
• Peel the roots, while wearing a glove to prevent coloration of your hands.
• Grind the rhizomes into a fine powder.