Turmeric
Curcuma longa
Turmeric is sacred to the Hindus and they commonly use it in their religious ceremonies. It is believed to give the energy of the "Divine Mother" and grant prosperity. The use of turmeric as a medicinal herb has been recorded in ancient Sanskrit texts and in India; it is widely used by practitioners of both Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine has recommended ginger for over 2500 years.
A remarkable antibiotic, turmeric is currently under wide spread scientific study for its healing properties. Harvard Medical School published results of a study, which stated that it inhibits the replication of HIV. The study went on to state that curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric, is a powerful antioxidant. Therefore, curry is rapidly becoming a commonplace dietary treatment in many detoxification regimes. Some studies indicate it may be helpful in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
Its principle constituent is Curcumin, which is a diferuloyl methane. It is what makes Turmeric yellow, but it is much more than just a pigment! In Indian systems of medicine, turmeric is used to treat a variety of illnesses. Turmeric also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Ayurvedic medicine prescribes it for helping stretch the lgaments. Research into its effectiveness is currently being conducted around the world.
Anyone who has sat long periods in cross-legged meditation surely will understand the usefulness of something helps make the ligaments limber, not to mention "compassionate energy!"