Turmeric is a bright yellow-orange spice commonly used in cooking, especially in South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cuisines. It comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, which belongs to the ginger family. Turmeric has a warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor with a hint of peppery spice.
Aside from its culinary use, turmeric has long been valued in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and healing properties — largely thanks to its active compound, curcumin. It's often used in teas, curries, rice dishes, and health supplements, as well as in natural skincare remedies.
In appearance, turmeric root looks somewhat like ginger but has a deep orange flesh. The powdered form is the most commonly used, known for adding vibrant color and rich flavor to dishes.
