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Turmeric Rhizome

강황 (薑黃) · Curcuma longa L.
Blood-moving, qi-regulating herb Hot Pungent, bitter Liver, Spleen
NatureHot
TastePungent, bitter
MeridiansLiver, Spleen
Part usedRhizome
FamilyZingiberaceae
CategoryBlood-moving, qi-regulating herb
Find by concern: Absent periodsBloating

Overview

Turmeric rhizome — the herb behind today's turmeric supplement boom — is recorded in the Donguibogam as a close, stronger relative of the yellow-tasseled tuber (鬱金): both come from old ginger-like roots grown for years, but the classics rate turmeric's action as more forceful still.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑
性熱, 味辛苦, 無毒. 主癥瘕血塊癰腫. 通月經, 治撲損瘀血, 破冷除風, 消氣脹.
Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)
TranslationIts nature is hot, its taste pungent and bitter, and it is non-toxic. It mainly treats hardened masses, blood clots, and boils and swelling. It unblocks menstruation, treats bruising and stagnant blood from injury, breaks up cold and dispels wind, and resolves qi-type distension.

Traditional uses recorded in the Donguibogam

  • Moves blood, breaks stasis
  • Regulates qi
  • Unblocks menstruation
  • Dispels wind-cold

Traditional applications recorded in the classical text

  • Amenorrhea or irregular menstruation
  • Bruising and stasis from injury
  • Abdominal masses
  • Bloating and distension

Traditional preparation

Traditionally vinegar-fried.

This describes traditional preparation recorded in the classics, not a recommendation for use today. DonguiHub does not provide dosage guidance — consult a qualified professional before using any herb.

Cautions

Caution: The Donguibogam explicitly notes its action is stronger than turmeric tuber (鬱金); as a strongly blood-moving, menstruation-unblocking herb, it is not suited to pregnancy without professional guidance. Consult a professional.
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Frequently asked questions

Is turmeric rhizome the same as the turmeric tuber (ulgeum) already on this site?

They're closely related but distinct classical entries. The Donguibogam records turmeric rhizome (薑黃) as a stronger relative of turmeric tuber (鬱金) — both from old ginger-like roots, but turmeric rhizome rated more forceful.

Is this the same plant used in modern turmeric supplements?

Yes — Curcuma longa is the source of both. The Donguibogam's use for blood stasis, menstrual blockage, and swelling long predates its modern supplement popularity.

Sources