Turmeric Roots

About Turmeric Roots

Turmeric is a golden yellow spice. It contains curcumin, an ingredient with medicinal benefits. People use it to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. However, it may also have some adverse effects.

Colourful plant foods are good for our health, thanks to their plant pigments, and turmeric is no exception. Much of the publicity around the spice is due to curcumin, the main active component which makes up about 3% of the root by weight. Although an impressive constituent, curcumin is just one of hundreds of bioactive compounds found in turmeric. The turmeric that we see on shelves and in spice cabinets is made of the ground roots of the plant. The bright yellow color of processed turmeric has inspired many cultures to use it as a dye. Ground turmeric is also a major ingredient in curry powder. Capsules, teas, powders, and extracts are some of the turmeric products available commercially.