turmeric ( is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, zingiberaceae. it is native to the indian subcontinent and southeast asia.when not used fresh, the rhizomes are dried in hot ovens, after which they are ground into a deep-orange-yellow powder commonly used as a coloring and flavoring agent in many asian cuisines, especially for curries, as well as for dyeing. turmeric powder has a warm, bitter, pepper-like flavor and earthy, mustard-like aroma.turmeric has been used in asia for thousands of years and is a major part of ayurveda, siddha medicine, unani, and traditional chinese medicine. it was first used as a dye, and then later for its medicinal properties.it helps to treat a wide variety of conditions, including flatulence, jaundice and menstrual difficulties.