Turmeric is an herbaceous plant known scientifically as Curcuma longa. It belongs to the Zingiberaceae family, which includes ginger. Tumeric has rhizomes rather than true roots, which are the primary source of commercial value for this plant. Tumeric originates from southwest India, where it has been a stable of Siddha medicine for thousands of years. It is also a common spice in Indian cuisine and is often used as flavoring for Asian mustards.

Turmeric requires a tropical climate to produce rhizomes, with an optimum temperature range between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. It also needs heavy and frequent rainfall to thrive. Most of the rhizomes of commercially cultivated turmeric plants are gathered once each year, although a few rhizomes are used to propagate the plants. The rhizomes are boiled for at least 30 minutes and then dried in ovens. The roots are then ground into powder both as a spice and an herbal supplement.

A group of chemicals known as curcuminoids are the most significant components in turmeric. Curcumin is one of the most important of these, which gives turmeric its hot, mustardy flavor. Additional curcuminoids in turmeric include demethoxycurcumin, curcumin diferuloylmethane and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Turmeric also contains other volatile oils such as atlantone, turmerone and zingiberene. Additional ingredients in tumeric include various proteins, resins and sugars.

The pharmaceutical effects of curcumin include antioxidant and support for healthy inflammation management.

Uses of Turmeric
Turmeric is often used for its inflammation managing properties, along with its immunity benefits. These properties are related to turmeric's effect on joint, digestive and skin health.

Signs You May Need Turmeric

Turmeric helps to manage inflammation in the body and some common signs you may need turmeric include chronic joint discomfort, itching, digestive disorders and gastric ulcers. You may also benefit from turmeric if you wish to boost immunity.