Turmeric is an ancient spice, a native of south east asia, used from antiquity as dye and a condiment. It is cultivated primarily in india, china, taiwan, sri lanka, java.  peru.  australia and the west indies.

turmeric is the rhizome or underground stem of a ginger-like plant. It is usually available ground, as a bright yellow, fine powder. The whole turmeric is a tuberous rhizome, with a rough, segmented skin. The rhizome is yellowish-brown with a dull orange interior that looks bright yellow when powdered.

in asia it is believed to be a tonic and a remedy for liver problems. In indonesia rice dyed with turmeric is traditionally part of the wedding ritual. Turmeric is also used to colour the arms of the bride and groom and to give a golden flush to the cheeks. Turmeric (curcuma longa) is a rhizome of the ginger family. Originally from indonesia and china, it has been cultivated inindia for thousands of years. In fact, it is often referred to as "indian saffron' because of the strong saffron colour it imparts to food.

the most versatile of all spices, turmeric is widely used throughout asia to colour and flavour food and is respected for its versatility. It has antiseptic properties and is used as an additive in cosmetics and medicines. In india, traditionally, women apply it on their faces and other parts of the body to stall unwanted hair growth and improve the complexion. And, of course it is used in all hindu ceremonies as a mark of purity and auspiciousness.

attributed medicinal properties
turmeric is a mild digestive, being aromatic, a stimulant and a carminative. An ointment base on the spice is used as an antiseptic in malaysia. Turmeric water is an asian cosmetic applied to impart a golden glow to the complexion.