NCCAM:turmeric

Introduction
This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb turmeric--common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Turmeric, a shrub related to ginger, is grown throughout India, other parts of Asia, and Africa. Known for its warm, bitter taste and golden color, turmeric is commonly used in fabric dyes and foods such as curry powders, mustards, and cheeses. It should not be confused with Javanese turmeric.

Common Names--turmeric, turmeric root, Indian saffron

Latin Names--Curcuma longa



What It Is Used For
In traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric has been used to aid digestion and liver function, relieve arthritis pain, and regulate menstruation.
Turmeric has also been applied directly to the skin for eczema and wound healing.
Today, turmeric is used for conditions such as heartburn, stomach ulcers, and gallstones. It is also used to reduce inflammation, as well as to prevent and treat cancer.


How It Is Used
Turmeric's finger-like underground stems (rhizomes) are dried and taken by mouth as a powder or in capsules, teas, or liquid extracts. Turmeric can also be made into a paste and used on the skin.


What the Science Says
There is little reliable evidence to support the use of turmeric for any health condition because few clinical trials have been conducted.
Preliminary findings from animal and laboratory studies suggest that a chemical found in turmeric--called curcumin--may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, but these findings have not been confirmed in people.
NCCAM-funded investigators are studying the active chemicals in turmeric and their effects--particularly anti-inflammatory effects--in people to better understand how turmeric might be used for health purposes.

Side Effects and Cautions
Turmeric is considered safe for most adults.
High doses or long-term use of turmeric may cause indigestion.
In animals, high doses of turmeric have caused liver problems. No cases of liver problems have been reported in people.
People with gallbladder disease should avoid using turmeric as a dietary supplement, as it may worsen the condition.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

NCCAM:Ginger

Introduction
This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb ginger--uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Ginger is a tropical plant that has green-purple flowers and an aromatic underground stem (called a rhizome). It is commonly used for cooking and medicinal purposes.

Common Names--ginger

Latin Names--Zingiber officinale


What It Is Used For
Ginger is used in Asian medicine to treat stomach aches, nausea, and diarrhea.
Many digestive, antinausea, and cold and flu dietary supplements sold in the United States contain ginger extract as an ingredient.
Ginger is used to alleviate postsurgery nausea as well as nausea caused by motion, chemotherapy, and pregnancy.
Ginger has been used for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and joint and muscle pain.
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How It Is Used
The underground stems of the ginger plant are used in cooking, baking, and for health purposes. Common forms of ginger include fresh or dried root, tablets, capsules, liquid extracts (tinctures), and teas.

What the Science Says
Studies suggest that the short-term use of ginger can safely relieve pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting.
Studies are mixed on whether ginger is effective for nausea caused by motion, chemotherapy, or surgery.
It is unclear whether ginger is effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or joint and muscle pain.
NCCAM-funded investigators are studying:
Whether ginger interacts with drugs, such as those used to suppress the immune system.
Ginger's effect on reducing nausea in patients on chemotherapy.
The general safety and effectiveness of ginger's use for health purposes, as well as its active components and effects on inflammation.


Side Effects and Cautions
Few side effects are linked to ginger when it is taken in small doses.
Side effects most often reported are gas, bloating, heartburn, and nausea. These effects are most often associated with powdered ginger.
Tell your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including ginger. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.