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Turmeric

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What is it?

Javanese turmeric is a plant that is native to the forests of Indonesia and the Malaysian peninsula. The root and rhizome (underground stem) are used to make medicine. Be careful not to confuse Javanese turmeric with turmeric. These are different plants with different effects.

Javanese turmeric is used for indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and various stomach, liver, and gallbladder complaints, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

It is effective?
Natural Medicines rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.

Insufficient Evidence to Make a Determination for …

  • A long-term disorder of the large intestines that causes stomach pain (irritable bowel syndrome or IBS). Taking Javanese turmeric extract does not seem to improve symptoms in people with IBS.
  • Feelings of fullness.
  • Gallbladder problems.
  • Gas (flatulence).
  • Improving appetite.
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia).
  • Liver problems.
  • Stomach problems.
  • Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of Javanese turmeric for these uses.

How does it work?
Javanese turmeric contains substances that might stimulate the production of bile.

Is there concern for the safety of its use?
When taken by mouth: Javanese turmeric is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when used for up to 18 weeks. Javanese turmeric is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used in large amounts or for longer periods of time. It may cause stomach irritation and nausea.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if Javanese turmeric is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Liver or gallbladder disease: Don’t use Javanese turmeric if you have liver or gallbladder problems. Javanese turmeric can increase the production of bile, and that could make your condition worse. If you have gallstones, get medical advice before using Javanese turmeric.

Are there any drug interactions?
There are no known interactions with medications. Before taking this product, talk with your health professional if you take any medications.

Are there any interactions with herbs and supplements?
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Are there any interactions with food?
There are no known interactions with foods.

What dose is used?
The appropriate dose of Javanese turmeric depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Javanese turmeric. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

By what other names is the product known?
Curcuma, Curcuma de Java, Curcuma Javanais, Cúrcuma Javanesa, Curcuma xanthorrhiza, Curcumae Xanthorrhizae Rhizoma, Java Turmeric, Safran des Indes, Témoé-lawacq, Témoé-lawaq, Temu Lawak, Temu Lawas, Tewon Lawa.

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