ZEODARY

Latin Name: Curcuma zedoaria

Family: ZINGIBERACEAE

Parts Used: Rhizome.

Properties: Antitumor, Aromatic, Bitter Tonic, Stimulant.

Internal Uses: Bloating, Cancer, Colds, Flatulence, Indigestion

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

It is used in bitter digestive tonics. Zeodary is being investigated for its potential to treat cervical cancer and as well as its abilitity to increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In India, it is given to babies and invalids, mixed with Cinnamon, Pepper and honey, for the treatment of colds.

Culinary uses: Used like Ginger, but it is more bitter. Cooked with chicken, fish and lamb.

Chemical Constituents: Essential oil, sesquiterpenes (curcumenone, curcumanolide A and B).

Comments: Native to India, the species Curcuma zedoaria was formely named Curcuma xanthorrhiza.

-- Phil in KS (cshomestead@planetkc.com), May 14, 2002