Scientific Approach to the Role of Turmeric in Ayurvedic Formulations and Their Phytochemistry

Abstract

Ayurveda, one of the oldest traditional healthcare systems in the world, has more than 2000 medicinal plants in its Materia Medica.1 Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is one of the renowned herbs mentioned in Ayurveda and is part of the many medicinal formulations for a wide range of disease conditions. Besides Ayurveda, its medicinal applications are also mentioned in Unani, Siddha and Chinese traditional medicine systems. Turmeric has at least 53 Sanskrit and vernacular names in India, indicating its widespread use across the country and pointing to its cultural importance. Many of these names are suggestive of the therapeutic properties exhibited by the herb.